Vistide (Cidofovir)

<p>From: Reviving the Broken Marionette: Treatments for CFS/ME and Fibromyalgia

Cidofovir is indicated in the treatment of cytomegalovirus infection, but it is also effective against HHV–6 and some non–herpesviruses. There are reports from CFS/ME doctors who have found it useful for some patients with HHV–6A.81 Cidofovir cannot be administered orally, but in maintenance therapy it is often given only twice a month.

The most serious risk with cidofovir is the possibility of severe, irreversible kidney damage. To protect the kidneys patients must be properly hydrated. Other possible side effects include e.g. nausea, fever, weakness, headache, dyspnea and hair loss. Because of the risk of kidney damage cidofovir should never be combined with other drugs that are toxic to the kidneys, including the NSAIDs.

Cidofovir is available in the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia, but not in Canada. In general it does not enjoy availability as good as that of the older antiherpesvirals. Even in countries where it is licensed it may only be available to patients with CMV retinitis. It is highly expensive.</p>