Some Antiviral Medications for Herpesvirus Infections
Medication | Common Uses | Some Side Effects |
|---|---|---|
Herpes zoster (shingles) | Few serious side effects Rarely, kidney damage Rarely, in people with a weakened immune system, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) and hemolytic-uremic syndrome (HUS) | |
Cytomegalovirus infections, including retinitis (infection of the retina of the eye) | Kidney damage | |
Oral and genital herpes Herpes zoster (shingles) | Few serious side effects | |
Kidney damage Genital ulcers (reversible once the medication is stopped) | ||
Cytomegalovirus infections, including retinitis | Low white blood cell count | |
Cytomegalovirus infections in people who have had a bone marrow and renal transplant | Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea Swelling of lower legs or hands Cough Headache Fatigue Abdominal pain | |
Cytomegalovirus infections that are resistant to other medications | Change in taste (dysgeusia) Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea | |
Few side effects Redness at site of application | ||
Herpes simplex keratitis (infection of the cornea) | Stinging of the eyes Swelling of the eyelids | |
Herpes zoster (shingles) | ||
Vidarabine (as ointment applied to the eyes) | Irritation of the eyes Sensitivity to light |