Famvir (Generic name : Famciclovir) is an antiviral medication that slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus, and shortens the length of time symptoms are present.

• What is Famvir?
• What should my health care professional know before I take Famvir?
• What if I miss a dose?
• What drug(s) may interact with Famvir?
• What side effects may I notice from taking Famvir?
• What should I watch for while taking Famvir?
• Where can I keep my medicine?

What is Famvir?
Famvir is an antiviral agent. Famvir relieves the symptoms of herpes zoster infection or genital herpes infection. Famvir will not cure shingles or genital herpes; it will help the blisters heal faster and reduce the duration of pain and discomfort. Famvir is also used to reduce the number of episodes of genital herpes infection. Generic Famvir are not yet available.
 
What should my health care professional know before I take Famvir?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
•kidney disease
•an unusual or allergic reaction to Famvir, acyclovir, ganciclovir, valacyclovir, valganciclovir, other medicines, food, dyes, or preservatives
•pregnant or trying to get pregnant
•breast-feeding
 
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 Famvir?
•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 Famvir?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
•confusion
•skin rash, itiching , hives
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
•diarrhea
•dizziness
•headache
•tiredness
•nausea, vomiting
 
What should I watch for while taking Famvir?
If Famvir is used to treat (rather than prevent) an infection, it should be taken when you first notice symptoms of infection, such as tingling, itching, or pain in the affected area. Tell your prescriber or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve within a few days of starting Famvir.
Drink several glasses of water a day while taking this medicine.
Keep affected area of blisters as clean and dry as possible. Wear loose-fitting clothing, and do not cover the area with an occlusive (plastic or waterproof) dressing.
Famvir does not prevent the spread of genital herpes infection to others. Genital herpes is transmitted by sexual contact. You should avoid sex when lesions are present to avoid infecting your partner. Genital herpes can also be spread when symptoms are not present. Therefore, latex condoms should be used at all times during sexual intercourse.
 
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.
Store at room temperature between 15-30 degrees C (59-86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.