All of the following antiviral medications are correctly matched with a significant side effect EXCEPT:
ExplanationCompared with the large number of antimicrobials directed against bacterial, antiviral therapies have been fewer, and advances in antiviral therapy have come more slowly. However, in recent years, a large number of antiviral medications have been introduced, and it is generally important to be familiar with the common side effects of these medications. Acyclovir and valacyclovir are most commonly used for the treat - ment of herpes simplex viruses I and II as well as varicella-zoster virus. Acyclovir is gener - ally a well-tolerated drug, but it can crystallize in the kidneys, leading to acute renal failure if the patient is not properly hydrated. Valacyclovir is an ester of acyclovir that significantly improves the bioavailability of the drug. It is also well tolerated but has been associated with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura or hemolytic uremic syndrome when used at high doses. Ganciclovir and foscarnet are medications used to treat cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection. Ganciclovir is primarily given intravenously because the oral bioavail - ability is less than 10%. Ganciclovir is associated with bone marrow suppression and can cause renal dysfunction. Foscarnet is used for ganciclovir-resistant CMV infections. Renal impairment commonly occurs with its use and causes hypokalemia, hypocalcemia, and hypomagnesemia. Thus, careful monitoring of electrolytes and renal function is war - ranted with foscarnet use. Amantadine is an antiviral medication used for the treatment of influenza A. It has been demonstrated to have a variety of central nervous system (CNS) side effects, including dizziness, anxiety, insomnia, and difficulty concentrating. Although initially used as an antiviral drug, the CNS effects of amantadine have led to its use in Par - kinson’s disease. Interferons are a group of cytokines produced endogenously in response to a variety of pathogens, including viruses and bacteria. Therapeutically, interferons have been studied extensively in the treatment of patients with chronic hepatitis B and C. Inter - ferons lead to a host of systemic effects, including symptoms of a viral syndrome (fevers, chills, fatigue, and myalgias) as well as leukopenia.
