Related Experiment Videos
Clostridium difficile colitis associated with valaciclovir
Susana De Andrés1, Daniel Ferreiro, Maribel Ibánez
1Pharmacy Service, Severo Ochoa Hospital, 28911 Leganés (Madrid), Spain.
Pharmacy World & Science : PWS
|March 17, 2004
Summary
Valaciclovir treatment may trigger Clostridium difficile colitis, a rare but serious condition. Prompt diagnosis and treatment with metronidazole led to rapid symptom improvement in a patient with herpes zoster.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Gastroenterology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Valaciclovir is an antiviral medication commonly prescribed for herpes zoster.
- Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is a significant cause of infectious diarrhea, often associated with antibiotic use.
Observation:
- A 73-year-old male developed severe diarrhea and vomiting three days after initiating valaciclovir for herpes zoster.
- Despite fluid replacement, diarrhea persisted, leading to hospitalization and diagnostic testing.
- Stool analysis confirmed Clostridium difficile infection.
Findings:
- The patient's symptoms resolved rapidly after discontinuation of valaciclovir and initiation of oral metronidazole.
- Naranjo's algorithm classified the adverse reaction as 'probable'.
- Other potential causes of diarrhea were systematically excluded.
Implications:
- This case suggests a potential association between valaciclovir and the development of Clostridium difficile colitis.
- Healthcare professionals should consider CDI as a possible adverse effect of valaciclovir.
- Early recognition and management are crucial for patient recovery.