What is Famvir?

Famvir is an antiviral drug.

Uses

Famvir is used to treat infections caused by the Herpes virus. These usually include chicken pox, genital herpes, cold sores and shingles. You might be prescribed Famvir for uses other than those listed above. It may also be given along with other medicines for some other disease too. Contact your doctor or pharmacist about the uses of Famvir.

Warnings

Take this drug for the entire time frame prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms might improve before the disease is completely cured.
Famvir's course should be started as soon as blisters or burning of the skin appears.
Herpes virus is contagious and can spread into other people too. This is also possible even if you are being treated with Famvir. Avoid the affecting area in coming in contact with other people. Avoid spreading of the Herpes virus in your eyes. This happens when a person touches the affected area and then the eyes. Wash your hands frequently.
Before hand inform your doctor if you have any kidney disease, galactose intolerance or severe lactase deficiency.
If you face these conditions then you might need a dose adjustment or may need to undergo prescribed medical tests before you can use Famvir.
Famvir is not expected to prove of any harm to an unborn baby. Do inform your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to be during the course.

How should I take Famvir?

Use Famvir along with a glass full of water. You must keep drinking lots of water in order to keep your kidney working.
Famvir may be taken with or without food. If you feel that your stomach gets upset with this dose then eats it with food.
Start your course on the first signs of symptoms of burning skin and itching. Take this medication for whole of the prescribed period. Famvir should not be used for a viral infection like cold or flu.
Wear loose clothes to protect lesions caused by the Herpes virus.

What happens if I overdose?

For precautionary measures visit your nearest medical centre of you think you have taken too much of this medicine. Symptoms caused by an overdose are not known.

Famvir side effects

Get immediate medical help if you are facing allergic side effects. These include hives;
Breathing difficulty and swelling of your face, tongue or throat.
Other frequently taking place less serious side effects include:

• Nausea;
• Vomiting;
• Headache;
• Dizziness;
• Sleepiness;
• Skin rash or
• Confusion.

The patient might face side effects other than those listed here. If any unusual symptom is caused by the use of Famvir then contact your doctor immediately.

Proper storage of Famvir

Famvir is to be stored at room temperature. Room temperature: 68 to 77 Degrees F or 20 to 25o C. It is to be kept in a tightly closed container. Keep Famvir away from sunlight, heat and moisture. Do not place it in bathrooms. Keep Famvir out of the reach of children and away from pets.

General information

For more information about Famvir consult your doctor or pharmacist. If your symptoms get worse after using this drug then inform this to your doctor.
Famvir is to be used only for the person it is prescribed for. Do not share your medication.

What happens if I miss a dose?

If the patient misses a dose then take the missed dose as soon as possible. If the scheduled next dose is near then skip the missed dose. Continue the rest of the course as usual. Do not take any other medicine to cover up the missed dose.