Famvir

Famvir General Information

Generic Name: famciclovir

Brand Name: Famvir

Famvir is an antiviral drug. Famvir cannot cure viral infection but it slows down the growth and spread of the herpes virus, so the body's immune system can fight out and cure the infection. Famvir is used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses. Herpes viruses cause these illnesses- genital herpes, cold sores, shingle, and chicken pox. Some important information about Famvir are:

Take this medication for the entire length of time prescribed by the doctor. The symptoms normally gets better before the system gets cured of the infection. That is why, full prescribed period of medication is essential. Other most essential feature of this medication is, Famvir should be started as soon as possible after the first appearance of the symptoms viz. tingling, burning and blister formation. Herpes infection is contagious and it will infect other people even during the Famvir medication. One must take care if the infected area does not come in contact with other people. Even one should not touch the eye after touching the infected area. Frequent washing of hands is necessary to prevent spreading infection.

Famvir Uses

Famvir should not be used if the patient is allergic to Penciclovir. It should be told to the doctor if the patient is suffering from: kidney disease, galactose intolerance, severe lactase deficiency, and glucose - galactose malabsorption. If these conditions are present, what is required will be a dose adjustment by the doctor or special tests to facilitate safe intake of Famvir.The above course of action has to be adopted if the patient is taking probenecid since otherwise the patient cannot use Famvir. However, the list is not complete and there may be other drugs that can interact with Famvir. The doctor must be told about all the prescription and over-the - counter medications used by the patient.

How Take Famvir

The medication should be taken exactly as it was prescribed by the doctor. Amount and period of use should not be increased or violated than what was recommended by the doctor. Treatment with Famvir should be started as soon as the symptoms are noticed for the first time like sensations of tingling, burning or blisters. With each dose, a full glass of water should be taken and plenty of water intake during the period of medication is necessary to keep the kidney function normal. Famvir can be taken with food. However, Famvir will not treat a viral infection such as the common flu and cold. Lesions caused by the herpes must be kept clean and dry as possible. Wearing loose clothing may help prevent the irritation caused by the lesions.

Famvir Warnings

Herpes infections are extremely contagious. Other people may be infected even when you are being treated with Famvir.So, other people should not get contact of your infected areas. One should not even touch his own eyes after touching the infected part. Washing hands frequently and properly must be practiced during medication period more vigorously. Further, Famvir will not prevent genital herpes from spreading. So, either avoid sexual intercourse or latex condom should be used as a safeguard.

Famvir Missed Dose

One should take the missed dose as soon as it is remembered. However, if it is almost the time for the next schedule dose, then better take the next schedule dose and drop the missed dose. No compensatory dose need to be taken for the missed dose.

Famvir Side Effects

Emergency medical help must be sought in case of the following allergic reactions are noticed or felt: breathing difficulty, hive, swelling of lips, tongue, face, or throat. Less serious side effects may include

• 8 Stomach pain, nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Sleepiness or dizziness
• Mild itching or skin rash
• Confusion

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may also occur. The doctor must be informed if any unusual and bothersome side effects develop.

Famvir Storage Advice

Famvir must be stored in room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Famvir Overdose

Seek emergency medical attention if overdose of Famvir has been consumed. Symptoms of Famvir overdose is not yet known.

Famvir More Information

Famciclover is available as a prescription drug under the brand name Famvir. Other brand or generic formulations may also be available. The pharmacist attached to the patient may be asked about more information about Famvir who may provide the same.