Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a common herpes virus that causes little to no harm in healthy children and adults. For newborns and patients with compromised immune systems, however, CMV can become a life-threatening illness that attacks body organs. The U.S. National Library of Medicine relates that the only treatment usually needed for healthy patients is extended rest. The following treatments are indicated for newborns or patients with lowered immunity due to transplant anti-rejection drugs, HIV, AIDS or other serious illness. Treatments for CMV may stop the active infection, but, like all herpes viruses, it remains permanently in the blood.
Ganciclovir Sodium
Ganciclovir sodium is administered through the vein to patients. It is usually administered twice a day for two to three weeks, followed by a less frequent schedule for another few weeks of maintenance. Oral medication is sometimes used for maintenance therapy. According to the 2010 Lippincott's Nursing Drug Guide, an ocular implant containing the drug is sometimes placed in the eye and left in place for around six months. Ganciclovir is given to adults with cytomegalovirus and is administered investigationally to newborns with cytomegalovirus. The benefit versus risk ratio must be determined by the physician before administering to children. This medication has serious adverse effects, including lowering of blood cell counts.
Valganciclovir Sodium
Valganciclovir sodium is a newer, oral medication that is indicated in some cases of adult CMV. Its safety has not been determined in children. It is usually given twice a day for three weeks, followed by several weeks of daily maintenance therapy. Valganciclovir can also significantly lower blood cell counts.
Foscarnet Sodium
Foscarnet is given through the vein for CMV that is resistant to ganciclovir or valganciclovir. Typical treatment involves administration of the drug two to three times a day for two to three weeks, followed by several weeks of daily maintenance therapy. This drug also has serious side effects, including possible kidney damage. It has not been tested for safety in children.
Cidofivir
Cidofivir is given through the vein for CMV that is resistant to ganciclovir or valganciclovir. It is administered once, then one week later, then every two weeks. This drug can also harm the kidneys or produce other serious side effects. It has not been tested for safety in children.
CMV-Immune Globulin
CMV-immune globulin is sometimes given in conjunction with one of the other medications to help attack the virus. It contains antibodies from human blood and is given into the vein. Dosage is determined by the physician depending on patient condition.
Temporary Reduction of Anti-rejection Medication
When a patient taking immunosuppressive medication develops a severe case of cytomegalovirus infection, his transplant drug dosages may be temporarily lowered to allow his own immune system to fight the virus.
References
- Epocrates: Cytomegalovirus Infection: Treatment Approach & Treatment Details: Subscription
- U.S. National Library of Medicine: Acute Cytomegalovirus Infection
- Journal Watch Specialties: Valganciclovir: A New Oral Treatment for Cytomegalovirus Infection
