What is Maribavir?
Maribavir can be described as an antiviral drug that treats the cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in individuals 12 years old or older who weigh at least 77 lbs (35 kilograms) and have had an organ transplant. Maribavir is prescribed when an illness or infection is not responding to the treatment of ganciclovir, valganciclovir, cidofovir, or foscarnet. Maribavir can also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.
Side effects of Maribavir
See a doctor immediately. Get medical attention immediately if you notice symptoms that indicate an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of your lips, face, and tongue. Maribavir may cause serious side effects. Consult your physician immediately. If you suffer from:
- Low blood cell count low blood cell counts—fever, chills, tiredness, mouth sores, skin sores, bruising that is easy, abnormal bleeding, pale skin, cold feet and hands, and feeling lightheaded or tired.
- Kidney issues: little or no urine output, swelling of your ankles or feet, and feeling tired.
Common adverse effects of maribavir could include:
- Vomiting, nausea, diarrhea.
- Tiredness.
- Shifts in your sense of taste.
This is not an exhaustive list of probable side effects, and more may arise. Contact your doctor if you are experiencing any side effects. You can report any side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
Take only according to your doctor's instructions. Inform your doctor if you take other medications or suffer from allergies or medical conditions that are not covered by
Before you take this drug
Inform your doctor if you are suffering from:
- End-stage kidney disease at the end of its stage (including those who are taking dialysis) or
- The severity of the liver disease is extreme.
Certain drugs shouldn't be taken together with maribavir. Your treatment regimen may change when you are also using carbamazepine, phenytoin, or phenobarbital. Consult your physician if you are breastfeeding or pregnant.
How to take Maribavir?
Follow the directions on your prescription label and review all medication guides and instruction sheets. Follow the medication exactly as prescribed. Take maribavir twice every day, in combination with food or not. Even if your symptoms resolve rapidly, continue taking maribavir. Inadequate doses can cause your virus to become resistant to treatment. Your blood could require frequent testing. Maribavir is not a treatment for CMV. Anyone suffering from CMV must be under the supervision of a physician. Keep at room temperature, away from heat and moisture.
Details on dosage
Usual Adult Dose for CMV Infection:
400 mg, orally, twice a day
Use: To treat patients suffering from post-transplant CMV-related infection or disease who are refractory to treatment (with or without genetic resistance) with ganciclovir or foscarnet, cidofovir, valganciclovir, or foscarnet.
Usual Pediatric Dose for CMV Infection:
12-year-olds or older:
At least 35 kg, 400 mg daily, orally.
Use: To treat patients suffering from post-transplant CMV disease or infection that is resistant in response to therapy (with or without genetic resistance) using ganciclovir or foscarnet, cidofovir, valganciclovir, or foscarnet.
What happens if I miss a dose?
You should take the medication as soon as possible, but avoid missing any doses if the next dosage is approaching. Do not take two doses at the same time.
What happens if I overdose?
Get medical attention in an emergency or contact the poison help line at 1-800-222-1222.
What should be avoided?
Follow the instructions of your physician regarding any limitations on foods, drinks, or activities.
Interaction with other drugs
Inform your doctor about your other medications, including:
- Phenobarbital or any other barbiturate medication.
- John's wort.
- An antibiotic—rifabutin, rifampin.
- Seizure medicine—carbamazepine, phenytoin.
This is not a complete list, and other drugs could influence maribavir. Prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements are all included. The interactions of all drugs are listed here.
