Foscavir (not available in Canada) is used alone or with other medicine to manage cytomegalovirus(CMV) retinitis (a viral infection that can lead to blindness) in patients with AIDS. It may also used to treat resistant herpes simplex virus (HSV) of the skin or mucous membrane in patients with weakened immune systems who have failed to respond to standard treatment. It should not be used to treat any other HSV infections.

Do not use Foscavir (not available in Canada) if you are allergic to any ingredient in Foscavir (not available in Canada)

Before using Foscavir (not available in Canada), tell your health care provider about any of the following: if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding if you are taking any other prescription medicine, nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement if you have kidney problems if you have any other medical condition

Foscavir (not available in Canada) may cause kidney damage or seizures.

Other:  Injection site pain and inflammation; back pain; chest pain; swelling; flushing; incoordination; leg cramps; dry mouth; difficulty swallowing; indigestion; weight loss; general ill health; thirst; muscle pain; joint pain; sleeplessness; drowsiness; nervousness; agitation; sinus inflammation; sore throat; runny nose; itching; skin ulcers; skin discoloration; taste changes; eye pain.

How much medicine you are given and how often it is given depends on many factors, including the condition being treated and the age and weight of the patient. If you have any questions about the amount and/or frequency of Foscavir (not available in Canada) you are given, talk with your health care provider. Foscavir (not available in Canada) will be prepared and administered by a health care provider. Do not take other medications that can damage the kidney cells while using Foscavir (not available in Canada). Talk with your doctor if you are not sure which medications may cause kidney damage. Drink plenty of liquids while using Foscavir (not available in Canada). Foscavir (not available in Canada) is not a cure for CMV infection, and the eye inflammation may progress during and after treatment. Have regular follow-up visits with your eye doctor. Foscavir (not available in Canada) is also not a cure for HSV infections. While complete healing is possible, the infection may return. Contact your doctor immediately if tingling around the mouth, numbness in hands or feet, or abnormal skin sensations such as burning or prickling occurs. Foscavir (not available in Canada) may cause dizziness. Use caution while driving or performing other tasks requiring alertness, coordination, or physical dexterity. Lab tests will be required to monitor therapy. Be sure to keep appointments. Patients with previous medical conditions should talk with their health care provider before using Foscavir (not available in Canada). Do not take any other over-the-counter or prescription medications without talking with your doctor. This includes any herbal preparations or dietary supplements.

Store Foscavir (not available in Canada) at between 59 and 86 degrees F. Protect from heat. Do not freeze.