Famvir

 
Generic Name: famciclovir (oral)

Brands: Famvir

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What is the most important information I should know about Famvir?

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

· Take all of the Famvir 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 Famvir?

· 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 Famvir?

· Do not take Famvir 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 Famvir.

· Famciclovir is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is unlikely to harm an unborn baby. Do not take Famvir without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.

· It is not known whether Famvir passes into breast milk. Do not take Famvir without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

· The safety and effectiveness of Famvir have not been established for children younger than 18 years of age.

 

How should I take Famvir?

· Take Famvir 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 Famvir 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 Famvir with food may decrease stomach upset.

· Take all of the Famvir 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 Famvir 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 Famvir 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 Famvir?

· 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 Famvir?

· Stop taking Famvir 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 Famvir 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 Famvir?

· Probenecid (Benemid) may increase the effects of Famvir 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 Famvir. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.

 

Where can I get more information?

· Your pharmacist has additional information about Famvir written for health professionals that you may read.

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