HealthSquare.com

Your Prescription Drug Destination
See all our sites for your special health needs at www.HealthCentral.com

Famvir

Also see more information on Famvir Oral from the First Databank drug library.

Brand name:

Famvir

Pronounced: FAM-veer
Generic name: Famciclovir


Why is Famvir prescribed?

Famvir tablets are used to treat herpes zoster, commonly referred to as "shingles," in adults. Shingles is a painful rash with raised, red pimples on the trunk of the body, usually the back. Because it is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox, only people who have had chickenpox can get shingles. When prescribed for shingles, Famvir works best in people age 50 or over.



Famvir is also prescribed to treat attacks of genital herpes and to prevent future flare-ups. For people with HIV infections, it is used as a treatment for both genital and oral herpes.


Most important fact about Famvir

Famvir is most effective if started within the first 48 hours after shingles first appears; treatment should be started at the first sign or symptom of genital herpes. Famvir treatment may not be effective if it is delayed more than 72 hours after the herpes zoster rash first appears or more than 6 hours after genital herpes becomes evident. Thus, it is important to see your doctor as soon as possible after symptoms appear.


How should you take Famvir?

For maximum benefit, take Famvir for the full time of treatment, even if your symptoms begin to clear up. Do not, however, take Famvir more often or for a longer time than your doctor directs.

You may take Famvir with meals or in between.

--If you miss a dose...

Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take two doses at the same time.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature.


What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Famvir.

  • More common side effects may include:
    Constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, fever, headache, nausea, vomiting

Why should Famvir not be prescribed?

Do not take Famvir if you are sensitive to it or have ever had an allergic reaction to it. Also avoid Famvir if you are sensitive to Denavir (penciclovir cream).


Page:   1   |   2        previous  |   next

Also see more information on Famvir Oral from the First Databank drug library.



HONcode logo
We comply with the HONcode standard for health trust worthy information: verify here.
More info from:

HealthCentral.com's
Genital Herpes Site


Most Viewed

Most Searched

Latest News

  • Study Supports Popular HIV Drug Regimen
  • Free AIDS drugs slash death rate in Malawi study
  • Many Moms Unwilling to Have Younger Daughters Get HPV Vaccine
  • Adverse effects of HIV therapy differ by race, sex
  • Study shows promising new approach to thwart HIV
  • Learn More

    Free Newsletter: Get weekly updates, news alerts and more on Famvir and related health conditions.
    Sign up 

    Genital Herpes Related Drugs

    See all related drugs

    Connect with community members who are taking Famvir
    Go 

    Which of these drugs are you taking?


    More info from

    HealthCentral.com's
    Genital Herpes Site




    View all conditions
    PR Newswire
    advertisement