Side Effects

Question 1

Side effects of ribavirin and when would you dose adjust?

Answer 1

Haemolytic anaemia (epoetin or transfusion may be required)

Dry cough

Skin reactions

Dose adjust for renal function and low haemoglobin

Question 2

Side effects of cidofovir?

Answer 2

Nephrotoxic - required to give probenecid and hyper hydration to protect

Question 3

Side effects of aciclovir

Answer 3

Mild - gastric upset and headache

Nephrotoxicity can develop due to precipitation of ACV crystals in tubule causing crystal nephropahthy

Neurotoxicity - can mimic encephalitis (test for CMMG in serum and CSF)