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General Medication Fact Sheet for Famciclovir
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Generic Name | Famciclovir |
| Brand Name Versions | Famvir |
| Purpose | Antiviral medication used to treat herpes zoster (shingles), genital herpes, and cold sores. |
| Mechanism of Action | Converted to penciclovir, which inhibits viral DNA polymerase, thus blocking viral replication. |
| Dosage Forms | Oral tablets |
| Available Strengths | 125 mg, 250 mg, 500 mg |
| Dosage Frequency | Varies depending on the condition being treated. Consult a healthcare provider. |
| Common Side Effects | Headache, nausea, diarrhea, dizziness |
| Serious Side Effects | Rare: Liver problems, allergic reactions |
| Drug Interactions | Probenecid, digoxin, other medications affecting kidney function |
| Important Notes | Start taking famciclovir as soon as possible after the first symptoms of herpes or shingles appear. Consult your doctor. |
| Storage | Store at room temperature away from moisture and light. |
| Missed Dose | Take as soon as you remember; skip if it’s almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose. |
| Alternatives | Acyclovir, Valacyclovir |
Famciclovir Alternatives
| Medication | Mechanism of Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Acyclovir (Zovirax) | Inhibits viral DNA polymerase | Older antiviral, often requires more frequent dosing. |
| Valacyclovir (Valtrex) | Converted to Acyclovir, inhibits viral DNA polymerase | Prodrug of Acyclovir, allows for less frequent dosing. |
Famciclovir Side Effects
| Common Side Effects | Serious Side Effects |
|---|---|
| Headache | Severe allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing) |
| Nausea | Liver problems (jaundice, dark urine, pale stools) |
Famciclovir Dosage Guide
| Condition | Starting Dose | Maintenance Dose | Administration Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Herpes Zoster (Shingles) | 500 mg | 500 mg every 8 hours for 7 days | Start within 72 hours of rash onset. |
| Genital Herpes (Initial Outbreak) | 250 mg | 250 mg three times daily for 7-10 days | Start at the first sign of symptoms. |
| Genital Herpes (Recurrent Outbreak) | 125 mg | 125 mg twice daily for 5 days | Start at the first sign of symptoms. |
Famciclovir Price With And Without Insurance
| Purchase Context | Estimated Price |
|---|---|
| With Insurance | $30 |
| Without Insurance (U.S.) | $50 – $120 |
| From CPS | $28.95 |
