Famvir (or famciclovir for its generic name) is an antiviral medication which actively works against the herpes viruses. It stops the spread of herpes by preventing the reproduction of viral DNA that is essential for viruses to increase. Unfortunately Famvir does not cure or stop the spreading of herpes infections but it does help relieve the burning, itching, pain and other uncomfortable symptoms. It also helps to heal and prevent sores connected with herpes infections.
As with other medications prescribed by your physician, you must be sure to complete your entire amount of drug therapy even if you think you are better and don’t need to continue. Famvir treatment should begin as soon as you notice the symptoms such as blisters, burning and tingling. Herpes infections are very contagious and you can certainly infect others even while you are taking Famvir. Be diligent not to allow infected areas to come into contact with others. Washing your hands frequently and thoroughly (with hot water and antibacterial soap for a few minutes each time) can help dissuade the spreading of your infection.
As always be sure to let your physician know of every medication you are currently on (particularly Benemid) and any that you are allergic to. Do not take Famvir if you are allergic to Denavir. Also let your doctor know if you have galactose intolerance, kidney disease or severe lactase deficiency, because if you do you may require an adjustment in dosage or tests to determine if this medication is safe for you to take. Be sure to let your doctor know if you are pregnant or could possibly be, since any medication combined with pregnancy is a serious matter. Do not take it if you are breast feeding without your doctor’s consent and also do not take this if you are under eighteen years old.
As with other medications prescribed by your physician, you must be sure to complete your entire amount of drug therapy even if you think you are better and don’t need to continue. Famvir treatment should begin as soon as you notice the symptoms such as blisters, burning and tingling. Herpes infections are very contagious and you can certainly infect others even while you are taking Famvir. Be diligent not to allow infected areas to come into contact with others. Washing your hands frequently and thoroughly (with hot water and antibacterial soap for a few minutes each time) can help dissuade the spreading of your infection.
As always be sure to let your physician know of every medication you are currently on (particularly Benemid) and any that you are allergic to. Do not take Famvir if you are allergic to Denavir. Also let your doctor know if you have galactose intolerance, kidney disease or severe lactase deficiency, because if you do you may require an adjustment in dosage or tests to determine if this medication is safe for you to take. Be sure to let your doctor know if you are pregnant or could possibly be, since any medication combined with pregnancy is a serious matter. Do not take it if you are breast feeding without your doctor’s consent and also do not take this if you are under eighteen years old.
Ingredients
Famciclovir
Belongs to the family of medications known as antivirals. It is used to treat genital herpes and shingles (a painful rash caused by some herpes viruses). It may be used to prevent recurring episodes of genital herpes. Famciclovir prevents the virus from making DNA (genetic material) and copying itself, and so leads to lower levels of virus in the blood.
Side Effects
There may be some side effects associated with Famvir use yet many may not be that serious. However, if you notice any signs of an allergic reaction you must take that seriously. Some of those signs are troubles breathing, hives and swelling of the lips, throat or tongue. These reactions require emergency treatment without delay. Besides the possibilities of side effects and the chance of needing to be on this for more than a week or so, even perhaps a year in some cases, there really aren’t any cons involved with taking Famvir.
Perhaps one could be if there is not a generic available at your pharmacy; the price could be quite high for the brand named medication. One pro in Famvir’s favor is that it helps to eliminate burning, itching and pain associated with herpes while helping to prevent sores. Finally, another pro is that this medication was FDA approved back in June of 1994.
Perhaps one could be if there is not a generic available at your pharmacy; the price could be quite high for the brand named medication. One pro in Famvir’s favor is that it helps to eliminate burning, itching and pain associated with herpes while helping to prevent sores. Finally, another pro is that this medication was FDA approved back in June of 1994.