Famciclovir
Key points
- Famciclovir relieves the symptoms of herpes zoster infection (shingles) or genital herpes infection.
- Famciclovir may be taken with food or without food.
- If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose.
- Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines.
Famciclovir tablets
What are famciclovir tablets? FAMCICLOVIR (Famvir®) is an antiviral agent. Famciclovir relieves the symptoms of herpes zoster infection (shingles) or genital herpes infection. Famciclovir will not cure shingles or genital herpes; it will help the blisters heal faster and reduce the duration of pain and discomfort. Famciclovir is also used to reduce the number of episodes of genital herpes infection. Generic famciclovir tablets are not yet available.
What should my health care professional know before I take famciclovir?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
- kidney disease
- an unusual or allergic reaction to famciclovir, acyclovir, ganciclovir, valacyclovir, valganciclovir, other medicines, food, dyes, or preservatives
- pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- breast-feeding
FAMCICLOVIR Prices
How should I take this medicine?
Take famciclovir tablets by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take the tablets with a full glass of water. Famciclovir may be taken with food or without food. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Finish the full course prescribed by your prescriber or health care professional even if you think your condition is better. Do not stop taking except on your prescriber's advice.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What drug(s) may interact with famciclovir?
- probenecid
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What side effects may I notice from taking famciclovir?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
- confusion
- skin rash, itiching , hives
Written and revised by
David Cohen, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.
