Famvir
This page contains drug information on Famvir.
The information provided includes the following:
what is Famvir
the possible side effects of Famvir
what happens if you miss a dose of Famvir
what happens if you overdose with Famvir
the most important information about Famvir
how to use Famvir
other drugs that may affect Famvir
what to avoid while using Famvir


Generic Name: famciclovir (oral) (fam SYE kloe veer)
Brand Names: Famvir


What is the most important information I should know about famciclovir?
Treatment with famciclovir should be started as soon as possible after the first appearance of symptoms (e.g. tingling, burning, blisters).
Take all of the famciclovir that has been prescribed for you even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may start to improve before the infection is completely treated.
Herpes infections are contagious and you can infect other people, even during treatment. Avoid letting infected areas come into contact with other people. Wash your hands frequently to prevent transmission.


What is famciclovir?
Famciclovir is an antiviral drug. It slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus so that the body can fight off the infection. Famciclovir shortens the length of time symptoms are present.
Famciclovir is used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses including shingles, genital herpes, and cold sores (in people with HIV).
Famciclovir may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.


What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking famciclovir?
Do not take famciclovir if you are allergic to penciclovir (Denavir) without first talking to your doctor.
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have kidney disease. You may need a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment with famciclovir.
Famciclovir is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is unlikely to harm an unborn baby. Do not take famciclovir without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.
It is not known whether famciclovir passes into breast milk. Do not take famciclovir without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
The safety and effectiveness of famciclovir have not been established for children younger than 18 years of age.


How should I take famciclovir?
Take famciclovir exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
Treatment with famciclovir should be started as soon as possible after the first appearance of symptoms (e.g. tingling, burning, blisters).
Take each dose with a full glass of water.
Famciclovir can be taken with or without food. Taking famciclovir with food may decrease stomach upset.
Take all of the famciclovir that has been prescribed for you even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may start to improve before the infection is completely treated.
Lesions caused by herpes viruses should be kept as clean and dry as possible. Wearing loose clothing may help to prevent irritation of the lesions.
Store famciclovir at room temperature away from moisture and heat.


What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one as directed. Do not take a double dose of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.


What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention.
A famciclovir overdose has no known symptoms, but an overdose of acyclovir (Zovirax), which is a similar drug, may cause seizures, hallucinations, and kidney damage (decreased urine production).


What should I avoid while taking famciclovir?
Herpes infections are contagious and you can infect other people, even during treatment. Avoid letting infected areas come into contact with other people. Wash your hands frequently to prevent transmission.
Famciclovir will not prevent the spread of genital herpes. Avoid sexual intercourse or use a latex condom to prevent spreading the virus to others.


What are the possible side effects of famciclovir?
Stop taking famciclovir and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives).
Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take famciclovir and talk to your doctor if you experience
nausea or vomiting,
a headache,
diarrhea,
dizziness,
tingling in your hands or feet, or
itching.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.


What other drugs will affect famciclovir?
Probenecid (Benemid) may increase the effects of famciclovir and lead to dangerous side effects. You may need a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you are taking probenecid.
Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with famciclovir. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.