What is famciclovir?
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.
What is the most important information I should know about famciclovir?
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.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking famciclovir?
Do not take famciclovir if you are allergic to penciclovir cream (Denavir).
If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use this medication:
FDA pregnancy category B. This medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
Your name may need to be listed on a pregnancy registry if you become pregnant while using this medication. The purpose of this registry is to track the outcome of the pregnancy and delivery to evaluate whether famciclovir had any effect on the baby.
It is not known whether famciclovir passes into breast milk, or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not take famciclovir without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Do not give this medication to a child younger than 18 years old.