Famciclovir

About famciclovir

This belongs to the group of medicines known as antivirals.

Famciclovir is used to treat viral infections such as shingles, it is also used to treat and prevent genital herpes.

Famciclovir is available in tablet form.

It is also sometimes known as: Famvir. You may notice the use of either of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before taking famciclovir

Before taking famciclovir make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from kidney problems
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines

How to take famciclovir

• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• You must complete the prescribed course of famciclovir, otherwise your infection may come back.
• Try to take this medicine at the same time each day to avoid missing any doses.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember and continue taking it at the usual times. If it is nearly time for your next dose, leave out the missed dose, never take two doses at the same time to make up. If in doubt speak to your pharmacist or doctor.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of famciclovir contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if empty.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside famciclovir.
• The areas of skin affected by the virus should be kept clean and as dry as possible. Wearing loose-fitting clothing should help to avoid irritation.
• If you have been prescribed famciclovir for genital herpes (a sexually transmitted infection), it is recommended that a condom is worn during sexual contact to prevent spreading the infection, even if treatment with famciclovir has begun.
• This may cause drowsiness and dizziness. Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert.

Can famciclovir cause problems?

Along with their needed effects, all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your pharmacist or doctor if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Nausea (feeling sick), vomiting (being sick), headache, dizziness, confusion, tiredness, seeing or hearing things that are not real, skin rash, tummy pains, fever (high temperature).

If you experience any other worrying side effects, which you think may be due to this medicine, not mentioned in this leaflet, discuss them with your pharmacist or doctor

How to store famciclovir

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of them for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 14/09/2005