WHAT TO KNOW
Treatment with Famvir should be started as soon
as possible after the first appearance of symptoms
(e.g. tingling, burning, blisters). Take all
of the Famvir 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 Famvir
Famvir is an antiviral drug. It slows the growth
and spread of the herpes virus so that the body
can fight off the infection. Famvir shortens
the length of time symptoms are present. Famvir
is used to treat infections caused by herpes
viruses including shingles, genital herpes, and
cold sores (in people with HIV)
HOW TO TAKE Famvir
Take Famvir 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 Famvir 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. Famvir
can be taken with or without food. Taking Famvir
with food may decrease stomach upset. Take all
of the Famvir 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 med unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
OVER DOSE
Seek emergency medical attention. A Famvir 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 Famvir 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 Famvir and talk to your
doctor if you experience:
nausea or vomiting
a headache
diarrhea
dizziness, tingling in your hands or feet
itching
PRECAUTIONS
Do not take Famvir if you are allergic to penciclovir
(Denavir) without first talking to your doctor.
Before taking this med, tell your doctor if you
have kidney disease. You may need a dosage adjustment
or special monitoring during treatment with Famvir.
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Probenecid (Benemid) may increase the effects of
Famvir and lead to dangerous side effects. You
may need a dosage adjustment or special monitoring
during treatment if you are taking probenecid.
