.
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 Use
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, or · 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.
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