Drug Name

Famvir (Famciclovir)

Drug Uses

Famvir is used for treating herpes zoster infection (shingles). It is also used to treat recurring herpes skin infections in patients who also have HIV infection. Famvir is used in patients who have a weakened immune system to treat recurring cold sores and to treat or suppress recurring genital herpes. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

How to use

Use Famvir as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

Take Famvir by mouth with or without food. If stomach upset occurs, take with food to reduce stomach irritation.

If you are treating genital herpes or cold sores, start using Famvir at the first sign of an outbreak or cold sore as directed by your doctor.

If you are treating shingles, cold sores, genital herpes, or herpes skin infection, take Famvir for the full course of treatment. Keep taking it even if you feel better in a few days.

If you are using Famvir to suppress genital herpes, continue to take Famvir even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Famvir is an antiviral. It works by blocking reproduction of the virus.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Famvir , take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Storage

Store between 15C and 30C (59F and 86F) and out of the reach of children.

Warnings/Precautions

Do NOT use Famvir if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Famvir or to penciclovir
• you have galactose intolerance, severe lactase deficiency, or glucose-galactose absorption problems

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.

Some medical conditions may interact with Famvir . Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:

• if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding
• if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement
• if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances
• if you have kidney problems

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Famvir . However, no specific interactions with Famvir are known at this time.

Possible Side Effects

All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:

• Diarrhea; gas; headache; tiredness; vomiting.

Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:

• Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); change in the amount of urine produced; confusion; delirium; disorientation; hallucinations; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin.

More Information

If you have any questions about Famvir , please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.

Famvir is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.

If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.