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Trifluridine Drug Information Provided by Lexi-Comp

This information has been developed and provided by an independent third-party source. Merck & Co., Inc. does not endorse and is not responsible for the accuracy of the content, or for practices or standards of non-Merck sources.

Pronunciation

(trye FLURE i deen)

Generic Available (U.S.)

Yes

Index Terms

  • F3T
  • Trifluorothymidine

U.S. Brand Names

  • Viroptic®

Canadian Brand Names

  • Sandoz-Trifluridine
  • Viroptic®

Pharmacologic Category

  • Antiviral Agent, Ophthalmic

Pharmacologic Category Synonyms

  • Ophthalmic Antiviral Agent

Use: Labeled Indications

Treatment of primary keratoconjunctivitis and recurrent epithelial keratitis caused by herpes simplex virus types I and II

Pregnancy Risk Factor

C

Lactation

Excretion in breast milk unknown

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to trifluridine or any component of the formulation

Warnings/Precautions

Special handling:

• Hazardous agent: Use appropriate precautions for handling and disposal.

Concerns related to adverse effects:

• Irritation: Mild local irritation of conjunctival and cornea may occur when instilled but usually transient effects.

Adverse Reactions

1% to 10%: Local: Burning, stinging

<1%: Epithelial keratopathy, hyperemia, hypersensitivity reactions, intraocular pressure increased, keratitis, palpebral edema, stromal edema

Drug Interactions

There are no known significant interactions.

Storage

Refrigerate at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Storage at room temperature may result in a solution altered pH which could result in ocular discomfort upon administration and/or decreased potency.

Mechanism of Action

Interferes with viral replication by incorporating into viral DNA in place of thymidine, inhibiting thymidylate synthetase resulting in the formation of defective proteins

Pharmacodynamics/Kinetics

Absorption: Ophthalmic: Systemic absorption negligible, corneal penetration adequate

Dosage

Adults: Instill 1 drop into affected eye every 2 hours while awake, to a maximum of 9 drops/day, until re-epithelialization of corneal ulcer occurs; then use 1 drop every 4 hours for another 7 days; do not exceed 21 days of treatment; if improvement has not taken place in 7-14 days, consider another form of therapy

Monitoring Parameters

Ophthalmologic exam (test for corneal staining with fluorescein or rose bengal)

Patient Education

For ophthalmic use only. Tilt head back and look upward. Gently pull down lower lid and put drop(s) in inner corner of eye. Close eye and roll eyeball in all directions. Do not blink for 1/2 minute. Apply gentle pressure to inner corner of eye for 30 seconds. Wipe away excess from skin around eye. Do not use any other eye preparation for at least 10 minutes. May cause sensitivity to bright light; temporary stinging or blurred vision may occur. Inform prescriber if you experience eye pain, redness, burning, watering, dryness, double vision, puffiness around eye, vision changes, worsening of condition, or lack of improvement within 7-14 days.

Geriatric Considerations

Assess ability to self-administer.

Dental Health: Effects on Dental Treatment

No significant effects or complications reported

Dental Health: Vasoconstrictor/Local Anesthetic Precautions

No information available to require special precautions

Mental Health: Effects on Mental Status

None reported

Mental Health: Effects on Psychiatric Treatment

None reported

Nursing: Physical Assessment/Monitoring

Not for long-term use.

Dosage Forms

Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.

Solution, ophthalmic [drops]: 1% (7.5 mL)

Viroptic®: 1% (7.5 mL)

Pricing: U.S. (www.drugstore.com)

Solution (Trifluridine)

1% (7.5): $153.99

Solution (Viroptic)

1% (7.5): $159.99

International Brand Names

  • Bephen (HK, LU)
  • Ocufridine (KP)
  • TFT (BE, NL)
  • TFT Ophtiole (PH, TW)
  • Tri Fluoro Timidina Poen (AR)
  • Triflumann (DE, LU)
  • Trifluridin Thilo (AT)
  • Triherpine (CH, HU, IT, PL)
  • Trivirina (CO)
  • Viridin (PT)
  • Viromidin (ES)
  • Virophta (FR)

Lexi-Comp.com

Last full review/revision March 2011

Content last modified March 2011

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