Famciclovir
Chickenpox, Herpes Genitalis ... show more
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Herpes Simplex Virus Nucleoside Analog DNA Polymerase Inhibitor
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Famciclovir
Summary
Famciclovir is used to treat herpes zoster (shingles), recurrent genital herpes, and cold sores in adults. It helps manage symptoms and reduce the frequency of outbreaks. It's also used to treat herpes infections in people with HIV.
Famciclovir is a prodrug that converts into penciclovir in the body. Penciclovir inhibits the replication of the herpes virus by interfering with viral DNA synthesis, reducing the spread of the virus and helping to alleviate symptoms.
For adults, the dosage varies based on the condition. For shingles, the usual dose is 500 mg every 8 hours for 7 days. For recurrent genital herpes, it's 1000 mg twice daily for 1 day. For suppressive therapy, it's 250 mg twice daily. Famciclovir can be taken with or without food.
Common side effects of Famciclovir include headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. It may also cause dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, or disorientation. Serious adverse effects can include acute renal failure, especially in patients with underlying renal disease.
Famciclovir is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the drug. Caution is advised for patients with renal impairment as dosage adjustments may be necessary. It may cause dizziness or confusion, affecting the ability to drive or operate machinery. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before use.
Indications and Purpose
How does Famciclovir work?
Famciclovir is a prodrug that converts into penciclovir in the body. Penciclovir inhibits the replication of the herpes virus by interfering with viral DNA synthesis, thereby reducing the spread of the virus and helping to alleviate symptoms.
Is Famciclovir effective?
Clinical studies have shown that Famciclovir is effective in treating herpes zoster (shingles), recurrent genital herpes, and herpes labialis (cold sores) in immunocompetent adults. It reduces the duration of symptoms and viral shedding, and is also effective in suppressing recurrent genital herpes.
What is Famciclovir?
Famciclovir is an antiviral medication used to treat herpes zoster (shingles), recurrent genital herpes, and cold sores in adults. It works by stopping the spread of the herpes virus in the body, reducing symptoms like pain and itching, and helping sores heal faster. Famciclovir does not cure herpes infections but helps manage outbreaks.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Famciclovir?
The typical duration of Famciclovir use depends on the condition being treated. For shingles, it is usually taken for 7 days. For recurrent genital herpes, it is taken for 1 day. For suppressive therapy, it can be taken for up to 1 year. Always follow your doctor's instructions regarding the duration of use.
How do I take Famciclovir?
Famciclovir can be taken with or without food. There are no specific food restrictions while taking this medication. Follow your doctor's instructions on dosage and timing, and take the medication as soon as possible after symptoms appear for the best results.
How long does it take for Famciclovir to start working?
Famciclovir should be taken at the first sign of symptoms, such as tingling or itching, for the best results. It begins to work soon after ingestion, but the exact time it takes to notice improvement can vary. Consult your doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.
How should I store Famciclovir?
Store Famciclovir at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C). Keep it in its original container, tightly closed, and away from excess heat and moisture. Ensure it is out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
What is the usual dose of Famciclovir?
For adults, the dosage of Famciclovir varies based on the condition being treated. For herpes zoster (shingles), the usual dose is 500 mg every 8 hours for 7 days. For recurrent genital herpes, it's 1000 mg twice daily for 1 day. For suppressive therapy, it's 250 mg twice daily. For children, the efficacy and safety of Famciclovir have not been established, and it is not recommended for pediatric use.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Famciclovir be taken safely while breastfeeding?
There is no data on the presence of Famciclovir in human milk or its effects on the breastfed infant. Breastfeeding mothers should consider the benefits of breastfeeding along with the mother's need for Famciclovir and any potential adverse effects on the infant. Consult your doctor for personalized advice.
Can Famciclovir be taken safely while pregnant?
There is limited data on the use of Famciclovir during pregnancy. Animal studies have not shown adverse developmental outcomes, but the effects in humans are not well-established. Pregnant women should only use Famciclovir if the potential benefits outweigh the risks, and they should consult their doctor for guidance.
Can I take Famciclovir with other prescription drugs?
Famciclovir may interact with drugs that are eliminated by active renal tubular secretion, such as probenecid, which can increase penciclovir levels. Patients should inform their doctor of all medications they are taking to avoid potential interactions and adjust dosages if necessary.
Is Famciclovir safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients may experience higher levels of penciclovir due to decreased renal function. No specific dosage adjustment is needed based on age alone, but renal function should be monitored. Caution is advised when administering Famciclovir to elderly patients, and they should be monitored for side effects.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Famciclovir?
Famciclovir may cause dizziness or drowsiness, which could affect your ability to exercise safely. If you experience these side effects, it is advisable to avoid strenuous activities until you know how the medication affects you. Consult your doctor if you have concerns about exercising while taking Famciclovir.
Who should avoid taking Famciclovir?
Famciclovir is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the drug or its components. Caution is advised for patients with renal impairment, as dosage adjustments may be necessary. It may cause dizziness or confusion, affecting the ability to drive or operate machinery. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before use.
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