fomivirsen + ganciclovir

**fomivirsen + ganciclovir** is a combination therapy composed of fomivirsen, an antisense oligonucleotide, and ganciclovir, a nucleoside analog DNA polymerase inhibitor. Fomivirsen is a 21-base phosphorothioate oligodeoxynucleotide designed to bind specifically to the messenger RNA of immediate-early region 2 of the human cytomegalovirus (CMV), inhibiting viral replication by blocking the synthesis of essential viral proteins. Ganciclovir is a guanine analog that inhibits viral DNA polymerase, suppressing replication of CMV DNA. This combination has been investigated primarily for the treatment of CMV retinitis, particularly in immunocompromised patients such as those with AIDS. The combination is believed to offer an additive antiviral effect relative to either monotherapy, especially in cases that are refractory or resistant to standard treatments.

Brand names

Vitavene

Other names

fomivirsen sodiumganciclovir sodium