Formulation:
Tablet
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Manufacturer:
Novartis
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Alternate Names:Famvir (famcyclovir)
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What is Famvir (famcyclovir) used for? |
Famvir (famcyclovir) is used to treat herpes zoster (shingles) and recurrent herpes simplex infections in patients infected with HIV. It is also used to treat or suppress genital herpes in patients with weakened immune systems.
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When should Famvir (famcyclovir) not be taken?
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Do not take Famvir (famcyclovir) if you are allergic to any ingredient in Famvir (famcyclovir) or to similar medications (eg, Denavir; penciclovir cream) |
What precautions should I follow when taking Famvir (famcyclovir) ?
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Before using Famvir (famcyclovir), tell your health care provider about any of the following: if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding if you are taking any prescription medicine, nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement if you have impaired kidney function if you have any other medical condition |
What special warning(s) should I be aware of when taking Famvir (famcyclovir)?
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Famvir (famcyclovir) speeds healing of shingles and genital herpes, but it is not a cure. Famvir (famcyclovir) may not prevent transmission of genital herpes to others, so you should avoid sexual intercourse whenever you have symptoms of the disease. |
What are the side effects of Famvir (famcyclovir)?
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Most severe: Hallucinations; confusion; severe allergic reaction (giant hives; rash; difficulty breathing; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue).
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Most common: Headache; abnormal skin sensations; nausea; diarrhea; vomiting; tiredness; itching.
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Other: Migraine; gas; stomach pain; rash; painful menstruation.
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How should I take Famvir (famcyclovir)?
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How much medicine you take and how often you take it depend on many factors, including the condition being treated, your age, and weight. If you have any questions about the amount and/or frequency of Famvir (famcyclovir) you are taking, talk with your health care provider. Carefully read the patient leaflet provided with Famvir (famcyclovir) and reread it each time you get your prescription refilled. Take Famvir (famcyclovir) exactly as prescribed by your health care provider. Famvir (famcyclovir) may be taken without regard to meals. Treatment with Famvir (famcyclovir) should start at the earliest sign or symptom of shingles or genital herpes. Famvir (famcyclovir) may not work after 72 hours past onset of shingles or genital herpes or after 6 hours past the onset of recurring genital herpes. It may not be effective suppressive therapy for recurring genital herpes beyond 1 year. Famvir (famcyclovir) is not a cure for herpes and will not prevent the infection from spreading. Avoid sexual intercourse when sores are present to prevent infecting your partner. If you have been instructed to take Famvir (famcyclovir) regularly, do not stop taking Famvir (famcyclovir) without checking with your health care provider. Patients with previous medical conditions should talk with their health care provider before taking Famvir (famcyclovir). Do not take more medicine than prescribed unless advised to do so by your health care provider. This includes any herbal preparations or dietary supplements. Do not take any other over-the-counter or prescription medications without talking with your health care provider. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or if it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised by your health care provider. If more than one dose is missed, contact your health care provider or pharmacist.
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How should Famvir (famcyclovir) be stored?
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Store Famvir (famcyclovir) between 59 and 86 degrees F. Protect from heat, light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children |
General Information:
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| If you have any questions about Famvir (famcyclovir), please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider. Famvir (famcyclovir) is only to be used by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not give it to others. This information is advisory only. It does not contain all information about Famvir (famcyclovir). If you have any questions about Famvir (famcyclovir), ask your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
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