Brand Names: Famvir

Generic Name: famciclovir (Pronunciation: fam SYE klo veer)

• What is famciclovir (Famvir)?
• What are the possible side effects of famciclovir (Famvir)?
• What is the most important information I should know about famciclovir (Famvir)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking famciclovir (Famvir)?
• How should I take famciclovir (Famvir)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Famvir)?
• What happens if I overdose (Famvir)?
• What should I avoid while taking famciclovir (Famvir)?
• What other drugs will affect famciclovir (Famvir)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is famciclovir (Famvir)?

Famciclovir is an antiviral drug. It slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus so that the body can fight off the infection. Famciclovir will not cure herpes, but it can lessen the symptoms of the infections.

Famciclovir is used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses, including genital herpes, cold sores, shingles, and chicken pox.

There is no cure for herpes and famciclovir will not prevent you from developing symptoms in the future.

Famciclovir may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Famciclovir 125 mg-TEV

round, white, imprinted with 93, 8117

Famciclovir 250 mg-TEV

round, white, imprinted with 93, 8118

Famciclovir 500 mg-TEV

oblong, white, imprinted with 93, 8119

Famvir 125 mg

round, white, imprinted with FAMVIR, 125

Famvir 250 mg

round, white, imprinted with FAMVIR, 250

Famvir 500 mg

oblong, white, imprinted with FAMVIR, 500

What are the possible side effects of famciclovir (Famvir)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Less serious side effects may include:

• nausea, vomiting, stomach pain;
• diarrhea,
• headache, tired feeling;
• dizziness, sleepiness;
• mild itching or skin rash;
• numbness or tingly feeling; or
• confusion.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Read the Famvir (famciclovir) Side Effects Center for a complete guide to possible side effects »

What is the most important information I should know about famciclovir (Famvir)?

Take this medication for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated.

Treatment with famciclovir should be started as soon as possible after the first appearance of symptoms (such as tingling, burning, blisters).

Herpes infections are contagious and you can infect other people, even while you are being treated with famciclovir. Avoid letting infected areas come into contact with other people. Avoid touching an infected area and then touching your eyes. Wash your hands frequently to prevent passing the infection to others.