Drug name
Famvir (Famciclovir)
Drug Uses
Famvir helps to treat shingles (herpes infection). It also treats recurrent skin viruses (herpes) in those patients who suffer infection of HIV simultaneously. It treats regular genital herpes and cold sores. Sometimes it may be taken for some other conditions as directed by your doctor.
How Taken
Take the medication as determined by your doctor. Read the medicine label for precise dosing instructions carefully.
As a rule, Famvir is taken by mouth with food or without it. In case you have a stomach upset, it should be taken with food for reducing the irritation of stomach.
Cold sores/genital herpes: you should begin the therapy when you see first signs of cold sore as your doctor determinted.
Skin infection (herpes), genital herpes, shingles, cold sores: take the full therapy course. Proceed using thedrug even if you feel well. You should not miss tour scheduled dosages.
Drug Class and Mechanism
This antiviral blocks the virus spreading.
Missed Dose
In case you miss a dosage of Famvir, take it immediately. If several hours have passed or if it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up. Then go back to your usual schedule.
Storage
Keep Famvir between 15C and 30C (59F and 86F). Store it in a hermetic and light-resistant container. Store it away from light, heat and moisture. Do not store it in the bathroom. Save this remedy out of the reach of children and pets.
Warnings Precautions
You must not take Famvir in the following cases:
you have allergies to its ingredients;
you are allergic to penciclovir;
you suffer lactase shortage, galactose intolerance, problems with absorption of glucose-galactose.
Contact your health care provider/doctor immediately in case some of these apply to you.
There are some medications interacting with Famvir . Inform your health care provider in case you are currently taking any other medicines, especially the following ones:
you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant;
you are breast-feeding;
you have problems with kidney;
you are currently using some herbal preparation, certain dietary supplement
or prescription/nonprescription medicine,
you are allergic to some substances (medicines, foods etc.)
Possible Side Effects
Medicines may provoke certain side effects. Nevertherless, many people have no/ minor side effects. Contact your doctor if any of these side effects take place:
weakness; vomiting; gas; headache; diarrhea.
If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Ask for medical attention immediately in case any of these serious side effects take place:
serious allergic reactions (chest tightness; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue; rash; hives; difficulty breathing); hallucinations; skin changes; urination changes; confusion; disorientation; delirium.
More Information
Famvir should be taken only by those patients for whom it is prescribed. You should not give it to others.
If your symptoms become worse and do not improve, contact your doctor.
Contact your health care provider in case you have some questions about using Famvir.