FAMVIR

	Generic Name: Famciclovir (oral) (fam SYE kloe veer) Typical Brand Names: Famvir® Classification: Sexual Health
Famvir is prescribed for herpes zoster (shingles) as well as recurring outbreaks of genital herpes.

(These are common indications for Famvir. There may be additional conditions not listed here. Check with your doctor if you have questions about your specific condition).

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Famvir Uses:
Taking Famvir will help you by hindering the development of the herpes virus. You will experience fewer symptoms and they will go away faster because your body is better able to fight the infection. The prescription is for cold sores (in people with HIV), shingles, and genital herpes.

Famvir Directions:
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. Your symptoms may start to improve before the infection is completely treated. Lesions caused by herpes viruses should be kept as clean and dry as possible. Wearing loose clothing may help to prevent irritation of the lesions.

Famvir Side Effects:
Studies show that some occasionally experience side effects while taking Famvir. These might include tingling in your hands or feet, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, a headache, or itching. If these are persistent, talk to your doctor about it. Seek immediate medical care if you have an allergic reaction to Famvir, including closing of your throat; hives; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or difficulty breathing.

Famvir Warnings:
You can spread the herpes virus easily. Taking Famvir does not keep you from infecting others. Avoid sexual intercourse while you have active sores, or wear a latex condom. Your partner should never touch infected areas. Wash your hands often to prevent spreading the virus.

Famvir Drug Interactions:
Potentially serious side effects are possible when taking Famvir as well as Probenecid (Benemid). In this case, your doctor will probably prescribe and adjusted dose or require additional monitoring. Medications besides those listed can also lead to drug interactions. Your physician should know about all other drugs you regularly use, as well as any herbal products.

Famvir 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.

Famvir Storage:
Famvir should be stored out of reach of children and away from heat and light sources. Capsules and tablets should not be exposed to moisture, such as found in the bathroom or near the kitchen sink, since heat or moisture can make the tablets break down. Medicine that has expired should be safely discarded.

Anything Else I Should Know About Famvir:
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. Famciclovir is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is unlikely to harm an unborn baby. Do not take famciclovir without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. It is not known whether famciclovir passes into breast milk. Do not take famciclovir without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. The safety and effectiveness of famciclovir have not been established for children younger than 18 years of age.