[Anti-cytomegaloviral drugs].

Cytomegalovirus infection is often life threatening in immunocompromised patients. Three anti-CMV drugs, ganciclovir, valganciclovir and foscarnet are available in commercial basis in Japan. In addition to them, cidofovir is provided for patients with HIV by a research group supported by Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. Every anti-CMV drug has serious side effects, as bone marrow suppression with ganciclovir and valganciclovir, renal toxicity with foscarnet and both with cidofovir. Strict dose adjustment to the renal function and close monitoring with laboratory examinations are essential when using those drugs.