- Cytosine nucleotide analogue that inhibits DNA polymerase in human herpesviruses
- Should be given with probenecid 2 g IV prior to each dose
- Unlike ganciclovir, it does not need phosphorylation by UL97
- Indications: Adenovirus, CMV after solid organ transplantation, Cytomegalovirus, Herpes simplex virus
- Major adverse effect is irreversible renal tubular necrosis, which may be prevented by probenecid