Explain Adverse Effects of foscarnet
Renal dysfunction often develops during treatment with foscarnet and is usually reversible, but renal failure requiring dialy sis may occur. Renal toxicity is increased in patients receiving other nephrotoxic drugs; adequate hydration may decrease the risk. Nausea, vomiting, anemia, fatigue, headache, genital ulceration, CNS disturbances, hypo- and hypercalcemia, hypo- and hyperphosphatemia, hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia have also occurred. The risk of severe hypocalcemia, sometimes fatal, is increased by concurrent IV pentamidine (Pentam). Foscarnet given with zidovudine may increase the risk of anemia. It causes chromosomal damage in vitro and in vivo.