cidofovir

Cidofovir is an antiviral small molecule drug primarily used to treat cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)[1][2][4][5]. It is a nucleotide analogue that selectively inhibits viral DNA polymerase, suppressing CMV replication by interfering with viral DNA synthesis[2][6][7]. Cidofovir is administered intravenously and must be given with probenecid and intravenous hydration to reduce the risk of nephrotoxicity[3][8]. The active metabolite, cidofovir diphosphate, has a long intracellular half-life and acts by competing with deoxycytosine triphosphate for incorporation into viral DNA, leading to chain termination and inhibition of further viral replication[2][6]. Cidofovir also exhibits activity against other DNA viruses such as herpesviruses, adenoviruses, poxviruses (including smallpox), and human papillomavirus (HPV)[6][7]. It was developed by Gilead Sciences following discovery at the Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry in Prague. The drug was first approved in 1996 but has since been discontinued in some markets[2][7].

Brand names

Vistide

Other names

cidofovircidofovir anhydrous