Generic Famvir

What is Famvir (famciclovir)?

Famvir is an antiviral drug. It slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus so that the body can fight off the infection. Famvir will not cure herpes, but it can lessen the symptoms of the infections.

Famvir is used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses. Illnesses caused by herpes viruses include genital herpes, cold sores, shingles, and chicken pox.

Important information about Famvir (famciclovir)

Take this medication for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated.

Treatment with Famvir should be started as soon as possible after the first appearance of symptoms (such as tingling, burning, blisters).

Herpes infections are contagious and you can infect other people, even while you are being treated with Famvir. Avoid letting infected areas come into contact with other people. Avoid touching an infected area and then touching your eyes. Wash your hands frequently to prevent passing the infection to others.

Before taking Famvir (famciclovir)

Do not take this medication if you are allergic to penciclovir (Denavir). Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have:

• kidney disease;
• galactose intolerance;
• severe lactase deficiency; or
• glucose-galactose malabsorption.

If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take Famvir.

FDA pregnancy category B. This medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether Famvir passes into breast milk, or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not take this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not give this medication to a child younger than 18 years old.

How should I take Famvir (famciclovir)?

Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor.

Treatment with Famvir should be started as soon as possible after the first appearance of symptoms (such as tingling, burning, blisters).

Take each dose with a full glass of water. Drink plenty of water while you are taking this medication to keep your kidneys working properly.

Famvir can be taken with or without food. Taking Famvir with food may decrease stomach upset.

Take this medication for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated. Famvir will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu.

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 this medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. Symptoms of a Famvir overdose are unknown.

What should I avoid while taking Famvir (famciclovir)?

Herpes infections are contagious and you can infect other people, even while you are being treated with Famvir. Avoid letting infected areas come into contact with other people. Avoid touching an infected area and then touching your eyes. Wash your hands frequently to prevent passing the infection to others.

Famvir will not prevent the spread of genital herpes. Avoid sexual intercourse or use a latex condom to prevent spreading the virus to others.

Famvir (famciclovir) side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Less serious side effects may include:

• nausea, vomiting, stomach pain;
• headache;
• diarrhea,
• dizziness, sleepiness;
• mild itching or skin rash; or
• confusion.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect.

What other drugs will affect Famvir (famciclovir)?

Before taking Famvir, tell your doctor if you are also taking probenecid (Benemid). If you are using probenecid, you may not be able to use Famvir, or you may need dosage adjustments or special tests during treatment.

This list is not complete and there may be other drugs that can interact with Famvir. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.