WHAT TO KNOW
Treatment with famciclovir should be started
as soon as possible after the first appearance
of symptoms (e.g. tingling, burning, blisters).
Take all of the famciclovir that has been prescribed
for you even if you begin to feel better. Your
symptoms may start to improve before the infection
is completely treated. Herpes infections are
contagious and you can infect other people,
even during treatment. Avoid letting infected
areas come into contact with other people. Wash
your hands frequently to prevent transmission.
WHAT
IS IT
Famciclovir is an antiviral drug. It slows the
growth and spread of the herpes virus so that
the body can fight off the infection. Famciclovir
shortens the length of time symptoms are present.
Famciclovir is used to treat infections caused
by herpes viruses including shingles, genital
herpes, and cold sores (in people with HIV)
HOW
TO TAKE THIS MEDICATION
Take famciclovir exactly as directed by your
doctor. If you do not understand these directions,
ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain
them to you. Treatment with famciclovir should
be started as soon as possible after the first
appearance of symptoms (e.g. tingling, burning,
blisters). Take each dose with a full glass
of water. Famciclovir can be taken with or without
food. Taking famciclovir with food may decrease
stomach upset. Take all of the famciclovir that
has been prescribed for you even if you begin
to feel better
MISSED
DOSE
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
However, if it is almost time for the next regularly
scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and take
the next one as directed. Do not take a double
dose of this medication unless otherwise directed
by your doctor.
OVER
DOSE
Seek emergency medical attention. A famciclovir
overdose has no known symptoms, but an overdose
of acyclovir (Zovirax), which is a similar drug,
may cause seizures, hallucinations, and kidney
damage (decreased urine production).
SIDE
EFFECTS
Stop taking famciclovir and seek emergency medical
attention if you experience:
an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing;
closing of your throat; swelling of your lips,
tongue, or face; or hives)
Other, less serious side effects may be more
likely to occur. Continue to take famciclovir
and talk to your doctor if you experience:
nausea or vomiting
a headache
diarrhea
dizziness, tingling in your hands or feet
itching
PRECAUTIONS
Do not take famciclovir if you are allergic
to penciclovir (Denavir) without first talking
to your doctor. Before taking this medication,
tell your doctor if you have kidney disease.
You may need a dosage adjustment or special
monitoring during treatment with famciclovir.
DRUG
INTERACTIONS
Probenecid (Benemid) may increase the effects
of famciclovir and lead to dangerous side effects.
You may need a dosage adjustment or special
monitoring during treatment if you are taking
probenecid.
