Famvir

famciclovir

Brand(s):

• Famtrex Famcimac

Manufacturer:

• Cipla Limited / Macleods Pharmaceuticals Limited

Disease(s):

• Hiv / Herpes

Known as:

• Famvir

Famciclovir Tablets

What is Famciclovir?

Famciclovir is an antiviral medication used to combat infections caused by viruses such as herpes simplex virus (HSV), which causes oral and genital herpes, and varicella-zoster virus (VZV), responsible for chickenpox and shingles. It's also employed to prevent future herpes outbreaks. However, it's crucial to understand that famciclovir doesn't cure these viral infections; it manages symptoms and prevents recurrences.

Important Information to Share with Your Doctor

Before starting famciclovir, inform your healthcare provider about the following:

• Kidney disease: Famciclovir is processed by the kidneys, so impaired kidney function may require dose adjustments.
• Allergies: Report any known allergies to famciclovir, penciclovir (a related antiviral), other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Discuss your pregnancy status or plans to conceive, as well as if you are breastfeeding. Famciclovir's effects on pregnancy and breastfeeding are not fully understood.
• Other medical conditions: Mention any other health conditions you may have.

How to Take Famciclovir

Take famciclovir orally with a glass of water. It can be taken with or without food. Maintain a consistent dosing schedule as prescribed by your doctor. Do not increase the dosage or frequency on your own. Complete the entire course of treatment, even if you feel better before finishing all the pills. Skipping doses or prematurely stopping treatment could lead to treatment failure and potential recurrence of the infection.

Children require special considerations; consult your pediatrician before administering famciclovir to a child.

Overdose: In case of an overdose, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Personal Use Only: Do not share your famciclovir prescription with others.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Potential Drug Interactions

Famciclovir may interact with other medications, notably probenecid. Provide your doctor with a comprehensive list of all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal remedies, and dietary supplements. Alcohol and tobacco use should also be disclosed, as they might affect the medication's efficacy or lead to adverse effects.

Monitoring Your Progress

If your symptoms fail to improve or worsen, contact your healthcare provider. Early treatment is crucial for optimal results. Start taking famciclovir at the first sign of infection.

Maintain adequate hydration by drinking plenty of fluids (6-8 glasses of water daily) while taking this medication to help prevent dehydration and some potential side effects.

Remember, you can still transmit herpes or shingles to others, even while on treatment. Take precautions to avoid close contact as advised by your doctor. Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection; consult your physician for guidance on preventing its spread.

Possible Side Effects

Report to your doctor immediately:

• Allergic reactions such as skin rash, itching, hives, or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue.
• Confusion or hallucinations.

Side effects that usually don't require immediate medical attention (but should be reported if they persist or are bothersome):

• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Stomach upset
• Unusual fatigue or weakness

This is not an exhaustive list of all possible side effects.

Storage

Keep famciclovir out of the reach of children. Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F). Dispose of any unused medication after the expiration date.