Notice: Images are for illustration only and may not reflect the exact product you receive. Brand-name medications may look different depending on their country of origin—Canadian versions, for example, often include a "PR" symbol on the packaging. Rest assured, the medication, dosage, and active ingredients will be exactly as prescribed. Canada Pharmacy Store is committed to your health and safety, and we work only with licensed pharmacies to ensure you receive trusted, high-quality medication every time.
General Medication Fact Sheet for Famvir
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Medication Name | Famvir |
| Generic Name | Famciclovir |
| Purpose | Antiviral medication used to treat herpes zoster (shingles), herpes simplex (genital herpes), and recurrent herpes labialis (cold sores) |
| Mechanism of Action | Inhibits viral DNA polymerase, preventing viral replication |
| Dosage Forms | Oral tablets |
| Available Strengths | 125 mg, 250 mg, 500 mg |
| Dosage Frequency | Varies depending on the condition being treated; typically 1-3 times daily |
| Common Side Effects | Headache, nausea, diarrhea, dizziness |
| Serious Side Effects | Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing), liver problems, confusion |
| Drug Interactions | Probenecid, digoxin, cimetidine |
| Important Notes | Start taking Famvir as soon as possible after the first symptoms of herpes infection appear; consult a doctor if you have kidney problems |
| 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 | Valacyclovir (Valtrex), Acyclovir (Zovirax), Penciclovir (Denavir – topical) |
Famvir Alternatives
| Medication | Mechanism of Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Valacyclovir (Valtrex) | Inhibits viral DNA polymerase | Prodrug of Acyclovir, offering less frequent dosing. |
| Acyclovir (Zovirax) | Inhibits viral DNA polymerase | Available in oral, topical, and intravenous formulations. |
| Penciclovir (Denavir) | Inhibits viral DNA polymerase | Topical cream used for cold sores. |
Famvir Side Effects
| Common Side Effects | Serious Side Effects |
|---|---|
| Headache | Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing) |
| Nausea | Liver problems |
| Diarrhea | Confusion |
| Dizziness | Seizures (rare) |
| Fatigue | Severe skin reactions (rare) |
Famvir Dosage Guide
| Condition | Starting Dose | Maintenance Dose | Administration Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Herpes Zoster (Shingles) | 500 mg every 8 hours | 500 mg every 8 hours for 7 days | Start within 72 hours of rash onset. |
| Genital Herpes (First Episode) | 250 mg every 8 hours | 250 mg every 8 hours for 7-10 days | Start as soon as possible after symptoms appear. |
| Recurrent Genital Herpes | 125 mg twice daily | 125 mg twice daily for 5 days | Start at the first sign of recurrence. |
| Cold Sores (Herpes Labialis) | 1500 mg as a single dose or 750 mg twice daily | N/A | Take at the first sign of a cold sore. |
Famvir Price With And Without Insurance
| Purchase Context | Estimated Price |
|---|---|
| With Insurance | $50 – $100 |
| Without Insurance (U.S.) | $350 – $800 |
| From CPS | $138.95 |
