Drug Uses

Famvir is an antiviral medicine that is used to treat and suppress recurrent genital herpes, especially in patients who also have an HIV infection. It is also used to treat recurring cold sores.

How it is taken

The ideal dosage for Famvir depends on the treatment type. For episodic treatments like treatment of an outbreak of genital herpes, the general dose of Famvir in this case is one 125mg pill, two times a day, for 5 days.

In case of suppressive treatment (if you have frequent or severe outbreaks) you take one 250mg pill, two times a day, for up to 1 year to restrain the genital herpes virus and help avoid further outbreaks.

In patients with herpes simplex and HIV, the dose of Famvir is 500 mg, two times a day, for 7 days.

Famvir can be taken with or without a meal.

Missed Dosage

If you miss a dose of Famvir, then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

Overdose

While the exact symptoms of a Famvir overdose are not known, a similar medication called Zovirax (acyclovir) includes side effects like seizures, hallucinations, and kidney damage (decreased urine production). So if you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

Warnings/Precautions
You may require special monitoring or dosage adjustment if you suffer from a kidney disease.

You must not take Famvir is you are allergic to penciclovir (Denavir).

If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then stop using and contact your doctor immediately because Famvir is in the FDA pregnancy category B.

It is unknown Famvir whether is secreted in breast milk. Avoid breast feeding while using the drug.

Possible Side Effects
Some of the less serious side effects of Famvir are nausea or vomiting, a headache, diarrhea, dizziness, tingling in your hands or feet, or itching.

Please contact your doctor if the symptoms persist or become bothersome.

Other severe side effects include allergic reactions, shortness of breath, closing of the throat, swelling of the lips/ face/ tongue, or hives.

You must seek medical attention immediately if any of these side effects occur.