Brand name:
Famvir
Pronounced: FAM-veer
Generic name:
Famciclovir
Why is Famvir prescribed?
Famvir tablets are used to treat herpes zoster, commonly referred
to as "shingles," in adults. Shingles is a painful rash with
raised, red pimples on the trunk of the body, usually the back.
Because it is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox, only
people who have had chickenpox can get shingles. When prescribed for
shingles, Famvir works best in people age 50 or over.
Famvir is also prescribed to treat attacks of genital herpes and
to prevent future flare-ups. For people with HIV infections, it is
used as a treatment for both genital and oral herpes.
Most important fact about Famvir
Famvir is most effective if started within the first 48 hours
after shingles first appears; treatment should be started at the
first sign or symptom of genital herpes. Famvir treatment may not be
effective if it is delayed more than 72 hours after the herpes
zoster rash first appears or more than 6 hours after genital herpes
becomes evident. Thus, it is important to see your doctor as soon as
possible after symptoms appear.
How should you take Famvir?
For maximum benefit, take Famvir for the full time of treatment,
even if your symptoms begin to clear up. Do not, however, take
Famvir more often or for a longer time than your doctor directs.
You may take Famvir with meals or in between.
--If you miss a dose...
Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost
time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your
regular schedule. Never take two doses at the same time.
--Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature.
Famvir side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in
intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor
can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Famvir.
- Side effects may include:
Constipation,
diarrhea,
dizziness,
fatigue,
fever,
headache,
nausea,
vomiting
Why should Famvir not be prescribed?
Do not take Famvir if you are sensitive to it or have ever had an
allergic reaction to it. Also avoid Famvir if you are sensitive to
Denavir (penciclovir cream).
Special warnings about Famvir
Famvir speeds healing of shingles and genital herpes, but it is
not a cure. It may not prevent transmission of genital herpes to
others, so you should avoid sexual intercourse whenever you have
symptoms of the disease.
If you have any kidney problems, be sure your doctor knows about
them before prescribing Famvir for you.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Famvir
If Famvir is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of
either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially
important to check with your doctor before combining Famvir with
probenecid (Benemid), a drug used to treat gout (a type of
arthritis).
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The effects of Famvir during pregnancy have not been adequately
studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your
doctor immediately. Famvir should be used during pregnancy only when
the benefit to the mother clearly outweighs the potential risk to
the baby. Famvir may appear in breast milk, and could affect a
nursing infant. If Famvir is essential to your health, your
doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your
treatment with Famvir is finished.
Recommended dosage for Famvir
ADULTS
Overdosage
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If
you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
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