Famciclovir

Famciclovir

What is Famciclovir?

Famciclovir is an oral medication used to treat viral infections such as shingles, chicken pox and herpes.

Description

What is Famciclovir?

Famciclovir can be used to treat two types of viral infections in adults. It can treat shingles (herpes zoster) and genital herpes. 

How does it work?

This medication works by stopping the virus from spreading in the body, which then allows for a faster healing process. 

Is Famciclovir suitable for me?

Famciclovir is recommended for adults only. Some people may not be able to take this medicine due to pre-existing medical conditions or ongoing medication. Ask your doctor if Famciclovir is right for you.

Dosage

Commonly Used Dosage Guidelines for Famciclovir.

For shingles:

  • One tablet of 500mg three times a day for seven days

For genital herpes:

  • For the first outbreak, take one tablet of 250mg three times a day for five days.
  • For further outbreaks, take one tablet of 125mg twice a day for five days
  • To prevent further outbreaks, take one tablet of 250mg twice a day

Side Effects

All medications can cause potential side effects, below we have listed some potential side effects, however, these do not always occur.

  • Headache
  • Feeling sick
  • Stomach pain
  • Diarrhoea
  • Dizziness
  • Rash
  • Itching
  • Liver function test giving abnormal results

 

Famciclovir Patient Leaflet

To view Famciclovir Patient Leaflet click here.

To view PDF patient leaflet click here.

 

Additional Information

Famciclovir is a prodrug of penciclovir, which is converted to penciclovir in the body. Famciclovir is used to treat herpes zoster (shingles) and varicella zoster (chickenpox). It is also used to treat recurrent episodes of genital herpes and recurrent episodes of orolabial herpes. Famciclovir is not a cure for these infections. Treatment with famciclovir should be started as soon as possible after the start of symptoms such as tingling, burning, blisters. Famciclovir is available as a generic drug and as the brand-name drugs Famvir and Famciclovir Teva.

 

Famciclovir Side Effects

Common side effects of famciclovir include:

Headache

Nausea

Vomiting

Diarrhoea

Dizziness

 

Famciclovir may interact with other medications. Tell your doctor all medications you take. During pregnancy, Famciclovir should be used only when prescribed. This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding. This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. 

 

How should I take famciclovir?

Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results. Famciclovir is usually taken every 8 hours for 7 days. Take the medicine at the same time each day. While using famciclovir, you may need frequent blood tests and vision exams. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

 

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

 

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention immediately. Overdose symptoms may include agitation, seizure (convulsions), fast or pounding heartbeats, sweating, or high fever.

Remember to always consult your physician or health care provider before starting, stopping, or altering a treatment or health care regimen. 

The absence of a warning for a given drug or drug combination in no way should be construed to indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective or appropriate for any given patient. If you have questions about the drugs you are taking, check with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this blog post is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Welzo does not endorse or sell the medication discussed, nor do we recommend using this information as a substitute for professional healthcare. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any decisions regarding your health or medical treatment. Welzo assumes no responsibility for any actions taken based on the information provided in this blog.

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