Famvir

What is Famvir?

Famvir is a drug that fights viruses. It helps the body fight the infection by slowing the spread and growth of the virus. Famciclovir does not cure herpes but can reduce the symptoms. Famvir treats herpes infections, such as genital herpes and cold sores. Famvir can be used by people who have the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and develop herpes around their mouths, genitals, or anal areas. Famvir is not effective for treating the first episode of herpes genitalis, but it may prevent further episodes. Famciclovir may also not be effective for black or African American people with genital herpes.Additionally, this treatment may not work effectively for anyone suffering from shingles, herpes or Zoster. Famvir can treat herpes-related infections such as cold sores or shingles. Herpes cannot be treated, and taking antivirals does not stop its symptoms from reappearing.

Warnings

Famvir should not be taken if you have an allergy to denavir (penciclovir) or famciclovir. This medicine should be taken for the entire prescribed time.As your infection clears away, some improvement may become apparent in your symptoms.  Famvir treatment should start immediately upon the appearance of initial symptoms (tingling or burning sensations). Herpes can be spread easily through touch. Infected skin should never come in contact with other people or become visible; thus preventing the possibility of spreading infection by contact. Hands should also be washed frequently so as to minimize spreading it further. Take this medication only if prescribed to do so by your healthcare provider. Famvir should not be taken if you have an allergy to penciclovir (Denavir) or famciclovir (Famvir). Inform your physician of any of the following factors to ensure Famvir is appropriate for you:

Before you take this drug

Famvir should not be used if you have an allergy to penciclovir (Denavir) or famciclovir (Famvir).

Tell your doctor about any of the following to ensure that Famvir will be safe for you:

• Liver disease

• Kidney disease

• A weak immune system

• Galactose intolerance;

• Severe lactase deficiency;

• Glucose-galactose malabsorption.

Inform your doctor that you are or will be pregnant. Herpes is transmitted to your child during birth if you are carrying a genital lession. It is important to avoid herpes during pregnancy if you suffer from genital herpes. To control your infection, take your medication as directed. You may find your name on a registry for pregnant women to monitor the effects of famciclovir. Breast-feeding may not be possible while taking this medication. You should consult your doctor if you are concerned about any risks. Famciclovir should not be used by anyone under the age of 18.

How to take Famvir?

Follow the directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instructions sheets. Read all the instructions and directions that come with your medication. Sometimes your doctor will change the dose. Famvir is not more effective if you take more than the prescribed amount. Famvir should be taken as soon as the symptoms appear (such as tingling or burning). Famvir can be taken with or without food. Herpes virus lesions should be kept as dry and clean as possible. Wearing loose clothing can help prevent irritation. Famvir can be taken for up to a year to prevent recurrent herpes genitalis. You should follow your doctor's advice. Even if you feel better quickly, continue to take this medication for the entire prescribed time. If you skip doses, your virus may become resistant to the medication. Store away from heat and moisture at room temperature.

Dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Herpes Simplex—Mucocutaneous/Immunocompetent Host:

Herpes genitalis:

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend 250 mg three times a day for seven to ten days.

The CDC recommends 1000 mg twice a day for one day. Alternatively, take 125mg twice a day for five days.

Famciclovir is recommended to be taken at the first sign of a recurrent infection (such as tingling or burning sensations, itching or pain, or lesions).However, no evidence indicates that taking medication more than six hours postsymptom or lesion appears will be effective in managing symptoms or lesions.

Usual Adult Dose for Herpes Simplex—Mucocutaneous/Immunocompromised Host:

Recurrent orolabial herpes or genital shingles in HIV-infected individuals: Take 500mg twice a day, orally for seven days (the CDC recommends five to ten days).

Famciclovir is recommended to be taken at the first sign of a recurrent infection (such as tingling or burning sensations, itching or pain, or lesions). It has not been proven that if the treatment is started more than 48 hours after the onset of symptoms or lesions, it will be effective.

Adult dose for Herpes Simplex: Treatment:

Chronic suppression of recurrent herpes genitalis:

Patients with immune competence: Take 250 mg twice daily.

The CDC has recommended that HIV-infected individuals take 500 mg twice a day.

The safety and efficacy have not yet been proven beyond one year.

Adult dose for Herpes Zoster:

Take 500 mg every 8 hours for 7 days.

Famciclovir should be taken within 48 hours after experiencing the first sign of rash onset; no studies have demonstrated its efficacy if taken more than 72 hours post rash outbreak.

Adult dosage for Herpes Simplex labialis:

Herpes labialis Recurrent: To administer treatment orally in one dose: 1500 mg of the medication should be taken orally as one single dose.

Famciclovir works best if taken at the first sign or symptom (tingling, burning, itching or pain) of a cold.

What happens if I miss the dose?

If you are almost due for your next dose, skip the missed one. Do not take multiple doses of the same medicine at once.Indirect effects include serious adverse health impacts.

What happens if I overdose?

Call 1-800-222-1222 immediately if you suspect poison ingestion and seek immediate medical care.

What should be avoided?

This medicine does not stop you from spreading genital herpes. Herpes is contagious, and you can still infect others while taking Famvir. Do not drive or engage in hazardous activities until you have determined how the medicine will affect you. You may be unable to react properly. Use a condom or avoid sexual contact to prevent the spread of the virus. Avoid letting the infected area come into contact with other people. Avoid touching the infected part of your body and then touching your eyes. Hands should be washed frequently to avoid the spread of infection.

Side effects of Famvir

If you experience symptoms indicative of an allergic reaction such as hives, difficulty breathing or swelling to lips, face, tongue or throat - seek medical assistance immediately!

If you experience:

• Confusion;

• Kidney disease: feeling tired, short of breath, or experiencing swelling in the feet or ankles.

Famvir may cause side effects such as:

• Headache;

• Nausea.

There may be other side effects.Need advice regarding side effects? Speak to your physician. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.

Interaction with other drug

Other drugs, such as vitamins and herbal remedies, may also interact with famciclovir.Informing your physician of all medications you are currently taking and those you stop or start using is very important for proper healthcare.