Famciclovir Medication - Uses & Side Effects

Generic Name: famciclovir

Pronunciation: fam SYE kloe veer

Brand Name: Famvir

Famciclovir (Famvir ® ) is an antiviral agent. It is used to treat herpes zoster (shingles) and genital herpes. It does not cure herpes infections but decreases pain and itching, helps sores to heal, and prevents new ones from forming. Famciclovir is a white to pale yellow solid. It is freely soluble in acetone and methanol, and sparingly soluble in ethanol and isopropanol. Famciclovir converts to Penciclovir which releases in the body after absorption and then it is active against the Herpes virus. It is a prodrug form of penciclovir with improved oral bioavailability . Famciclovir is marketed under the trade name Famvir ( Novartis ). It acts by inhibiting the production of genetic material (DNA), which is required for reproduction and hence the survival of the virus. Famciclovir is active against the same viruses as acyclovir but has a longer duration of action. It is also prescribed to treat attacks of genital herpes and to prevent future flare-ups.

Famciclovir Dosage:

• The dose of famciclovir will be different for different patients.
• The recommended dosage is 500 mg every 8 hours for 7 days.
• For best results, space the doses at equal intervals throughout the day (and night if directed by your doctor).
• Children-Use and dose must be determined by your doctor. ]

Uses of Famciclovir:

• Famciclovir is used in the treatment of Herpes Zoster infection (within 72 hours of appearance of rash).
• Famciclovir may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
• Used in the treatment of uncomplicated herpes zoster and recurrent herpes simplex in the immunocompromised patient.
• Famciclovir is also prescribed to treat attacks of genital herpes and to prevent future flare-ups.

Side Effects of Famciclovir:

Some common side effects reported with this medicine include:

• Fatigue are most common the first few days as your body adjusts to the medication.
• Diarrhea or loose stools.
• unusual tiredness
• Diarrhea
• dizziness.
• Vomiting.
• Headache.
• Viral infection.
• Rash.
• Shaking chills.
• Nausea.
• Tingling in your hands or feet.

Warnings and precautions before taking Famciclovir:

• If your symptoms do not improve within a few days, or if they become worse, check with your doctor.
• In patients with underlying renal disease who have received inappropriately high doses of Famvir for their level of renal function, acute renal failure has been reported.
• The areas affected by herpes should be kept as clean and dry as possible. Also, wear loose-fitting clothing to avoid irritating the sores (blisters).
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking famciclovir, call your doctor.
• Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to famciclovir, acyclovir (Zovirax), or any other drugs.
• Do not take double or extra doses.
• Do not increase your dose or take this more often than directed.

Drug Interaction:

• Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take including: probenecid , digoxin .
• Probenecid (Benemid) may reduce the kidney's clearance of penciclovir leading to higher concentrations of penciclovir in the blood.
• Using famciclovir with digoxin (Lanoxin) may result in an increase in the concentration of digoxin in the blood.

Overdose:

• After taking Famciclovir, If you feel that overdose is suspected, then contact with your doctor immediately.
• Symptoms of a famciclovir overdose are unknown.
• In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.
• If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

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