Idoxuridine
Idoxuridine Information

About Idoxuridine

Idoxuridine is a pyrimidine analog. Reseach in antiviral chemotherapy began in the early 1950s, when the search for cancer treatments generated several new compounds capable of inhibiting viral DNA synthesis. Idoruxidine was the first antiviral agent to be approved. Idoxuridine is used topically but because of the lack of selectivity Idoxuridine is too toxic for systemic administration.Used topically for treating herpes simplex infections of the skin & enternal genitalia.

Indications

Idoxuridine is primarily indicated in conditions like Cutaneous herpes simplex, Cutaneous herpes zoster, Herpes simplex keratitis, Soft tissue sarcoma.

Contraindication

Idoxuridine is contraindicated in conditions like Dermatographia,Hypersensitivity.

Side Effects

The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Idoxuridine, which give rise to further complications include Alopecia, Thrombocytopenia, Stomatitis, Leucopenia, Punctate keratitis, Epithelial degeneration.Idoxuridine produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Bone marrow, potential carcinogen & tetratogen, Deppression, Liver damage. which are responsible for the discontinuation of Idoxuridine therapy.The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Idoxuridine are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Pruritus, Pain, Contact dermatitis, Lacrimation, Photophobia, Follicular conjunctivitis, Heaviness of the lid, Maceration of the skin, Corneal clouding, Stinging, Stippling, Contact dermatitis.

Warnings

Idoxuridine should be used with caution in condition where there is deep ulceration of the cornea. Prolonged topical use should be avoided. Avoid use during pregnancy. Corticosteroids should be applied with caution in patients also receiving idoxuridine, as they may accelerate the spread of viral infection. Boric acid preparation should not be applied to the eye in patients receiving eye preparation of idoxuridine, because irritation may occur.

High Risk Groups

Drug should not be given to Paediatrics, Pregnant Mothers, and Neonates.If prescribing authority justifies the benefits of the drug against the possible damages he/she should reevaluate them and consult the reference material and previous studies.