Famciclovir is an antiviral medicine which stops the infecting virus from reproducing. An early treatment is recommended as the virus reproduces very early in the infection. Famciclovir tablets are used to treat viral infections like: - Shingles (Herpes Zoster), which is a viral infection. Famciclovir refrains the virus from spreading in the body so that healing can occur faster - Ophthalmic Zoster, which is a type of shingles occurring in the area around the eye or the eye itself - Genital Herpes, which is a viral infection, is caused by Herpes simplex virus type 1 or 2. An individual suffering from Genital Herpes will face burning sensation, itching or blisters near the genitals. The infection might be painful as well. This virus usually spreads through sexual contact. Adults who are frequently prone to genital herpes infection can use Famciclovir to prevent it. http://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/PIL.28066.latest.pdf
Like all other medicines, Famciclovir has side effects which are common. The side effects are mild to moderate in intensity. Some of the common side effects are : - Nausea - Dizziness - Drowsiness - Rash - Pruritus - Abnormal results of Liver tests - Confusion - Angioedema - Yellowing of skin - Low platelet count - Hallucinations Some of the serious common effects of Famciclovir are: - Severe blistering of skin or mucus membrane of the eyes, lips, mouth. - Burning sensation near the nasal passage or genitals - Swelling of the face, eyes, lips, throat which make difficult to swallow or breathe - Unexplained bruising, reddish or purplish patches on the skin or nosebleeds In case, you experience any of the above symptoms contact your doctor immediately.
One must take Famciclovir exactly as prescribed by the doctor. Always consult a doctor or your nearest pharmacist if you are unsure. The doctor will prescribe the dose as per the intensity and type of viral infection. For faster recovery and best results, you have to start the medicine as soon as you see the signs and symptoms of the viral infection. If any symptoms of genital herpes appear don’t engage yourself with sexual contact with anyone though you have started medication. You might pass the infection to your partner. If you have any problems with kidney or had one before, do let your doctor know about it. Accordingly the doctor will prescribe a lower dose of the medicine. Dosage for Shingles: If you have a normal immune system, it is recommended to take one tablet of 500mg strength, thrice a day for atleast seven days. In case you have a reduced immune system, it is recommended to take one tablet of 500mg strength, thrice a day for atleast ten days. Dosage for Genital Herpes: In case you have a normal immune system, for the first outbreak, the recommended dose is one tablet of 250mg thrice a day for five days. To treat further outbreaks, it is recommended to take one tablet of 125mg two times daily for ten days. In order to prevent further outbreaks, it is recommended to take one tablet of 250mg two times daily. In case you have a reduced immune system, to treat current outbreak, it is recommended to take 500mg twice a day for seven days. In order to prevent further outbreaks, it is recommended to take one tablet of 500mg twice a day. If you take an overdose of Famciclovir, inform your doctor immediately and visit a nearby hospital. An overdose of the tablets might affect the kidneys. For people already suffering from kidney problems, an overdose might cause kidney failure if the effect is not reduced. In case, you forget to take a dose, do not take an overdose. Also, it must be kept in mind that no two doses must be taken within an interval of less than one hour.
Famciclovir prevents the virus from spreading the infection and also reduces its strength. As it slows down the growth of herpes zoster virus, the body can fight the infection.
