Famciclovir

Information about Famciclovir

Famciclovir uses

Famciclovir is used in the treatment of herpes labialis, herpes simplex virus infections, shingles and genital herpes infection.

How famciclovir works

Famciclovir is an antiviral medication. It prevents the multiplication of virus in human cells. This stops the virus from producing new viruses and clears up your infection.

Common side effects of famciclovir

Headache, Dizziness, Nausea, Rash, Low blood platelets, Abdominal pain, Itching, Abnormal liver function tests, Confusion, Angioedema (swelling of deeper layers of skin), Increased lipase in the blood, Elevated levels of serum amylase, Red spots or bumps, Hallucination, Cholestatic jaundice

Available Medicine for Famciclovir

Penvir
₹289 to ₹317
Hetero Drugs Ltd
2 variant(s)
Virovir
₹339 to ₹351
FDC Ltd
2 variant(s)
Microvir
₹163 to ₹352
Micro Labs Ltd
2 variant(s)
Famcimac
₹312 to ₹344
Macleods Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd
2 variant(s)
Famnova
₹244 to ₹482
Signova Pharma Pvt Ltd
2 variant(s)
Famtrex
₹287 to ₹431
Cipla Ltd
2 variant(s)
Herpinil-F
₹550 to ₹690
Connote Healthcare
2 variant(s)
Famir
₹380 to ₹680
Canbro Healthcare
2 variant(s)
Simavir
₹235
Henry Pharmaceuticals
1 variant(s)
Famciclovir
₹263
Globela Pharma Pvt Ltd
1 variant(s)

Frequently asked questions for Famciclovir

Famciclovir

Q. Does Famciclovir prevent transmission of infection to others?

No, you can infect other people, even while you are being treated with Famciclovir. Herpes infections are contagious, so avoid letting infected areas come into contact with other people. Avoid touching your eyes after touching an infected area. Wash your hands frequently to prevent transmitting the infection to others. You should practice safe sex by using condoms. You should not have sex if you have genital sores or blisters.

Q. Is Famciclovir effective?

Famciclovir is effective if used in the dose and duration advised by your doctor. Do not stop taking it even if you see improvement in your condition. If you stop using Famciclovir too early, the symptoms may return or worsen.

Q. Can I stop taking Famciclovir when I feel better?

No, do not stop taking Famciclovir without consulting your doctor even if you are feeling better. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cured. Therefore, for better and complete treatment, it is advised to continue your treatment for the prescribed duration.

Q. What should I tell my doctor before starting treatment with Famciclovir?

Before starting treatment with Famciclovir, tell your doctor if you have any other health problems, like kidney or liver-related issues. This is because certain medical conditions may affect your treatment and you may even need dose modifications. Let your doctor know about all the other medicines you are taking because they may affect, or be affected by, this medicine. Inform your doctor if you are planning a baby, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Q. What are the serious side effects of Famciclovir?

Serious side effects are rare, but if you experience them, you should seek medical advice right away. These rare side effects include hives, blistering or peeling rash, yellow skin or eyes, unusual bruising or bleeding, loss of consciousness, fits, difficulty in breathing, hallucinations and swelling of the face, tongue, lips or throat.

Q. Do elderly patients need to be more careful while taking Famciclovir?

Older adults (over age 65 years) tend to experience more side effects when taking Famciclovir. The reason being, their kidneys do not flush the drug out of their system as quickly as a younger person’s kidneys would do. Elderly patients should drink plenty of water while taking Famciclovir, and their kidney function should be monitored. These patients should be given a lower dose and should be monitored for neurological problems.

Q. What if I forget to take a dose of Famciclovir?

If you forget a dose of Famciclovir, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next scheduled dose in the prescribed time. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one as this may increase the chances of developing side effects.

Q. What can happen if somebody takes more than the recommended dose of Famciclovir accidentally?

Accidental, repeated overdoses of oral Famciclovir over several days have resulted in nausea, vomiting, confusion and headache. Consult your doctor in case of overdose.

Q. Can I get resistant to Famciclovir treatment?

Patients with advanced HIV disease or patients with an impaired immunity have reported resistance to Famciclovir. If you are not responding to Famciclovir, the possibility of drug resistance should be checked.