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Valtrex
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Drug Category: Herpes
Other Similar Drugs: Acyclovir Valtrex Famvir
In the U.S.
- Famvir
In Canada
- Famvir
Description
Famciclovir (fam-SYE-kloe-veer) is used to treat the symptoms of herpes zoster (also known as shingles), a herpes virus infection of the skin. It is used to treat and suppress recurrent episodes of genital herpes infection. FAMVIR is also used to treat recurrent herpes virus infections of the mucous membranes (lips and mouth) and genitals in HIV-infected patients. Although famciclovir will not cure genital herpes or herpes zoster, it does help relieve the pain and discomfort and helps the sores heal faster.
Famciclovir is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form:
- Tablets (U.S. and Canada)
Proper Use of FAMVIR
Famciclovir is best used within 48 hours after the symptoms of shingles (for example, pain, burning, blisters) begin to appear, or within 6 hours after the symptoms of recurrent genital herpes (for example, pain, blisters) begin to appear.
Famciclovir may be taken with meals.
To help clear up your herpes infection, keep taking famciclovir for the full time of treatment, even if your symptoms begin to clear up after a few days. Do not miss any doses. However, do not use FAMVIR more often or for a longer time than your doctor ordered.
Dosing - The dose of famciclovir will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of famciclovir. Your dose may be different if you have kidney disease. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.
- For oral dosage form (tablets):
- For treatment of shingles:
- Adults500 milligrams (mg) every eight hours for seven days.
- ChildrenUse and dose must be determined by your doctor.
- For suppression of recurrent genital herpes:
- Adults250 mg two times a day for up to one year.
- ChildrenUse and dose must be determined by your doctor.
- For treatment of recurrent genital herpes:
- Adults125 mg two times a day for five days.
- ChildrenUse and dose must be determined by your doctor.
- For treatment of recurrent herpes virus infections of the mucous membranes (lips and mouth) and genitals in HIV-infected patients:
- Adults500 mg two times a day for seven days.
- ChildrenUse and dose must be determined by your doctor.
- For treatment of shingles:
Missed dose - If you miss a dose of FAMVIR, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.
Storage - To store FAMVIR:
- Keep out of the reach of children.
- Store away from heat and direct light.
- Do not store the tablets in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink, or in other damp places. Heat or moisture may cause the medicine to break down.
- Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed. Be sure that any discarded medicine is out of the reach of children.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.