Brand name: FAMTREX (Famvir, Famciclovir)
Pronounced: FAM-veer
Generic name: Famciclovir
Why is FAMTREX (Famvir, Famciclovir) prescribed?

FAMTREX (Famvir, Famciclovir) tablets are used to treat herpes zoster, commonly referred to as "shingles," in adults. Shingles is a painful rash with raised, red pimples on the trunk of the body, usually the back. Because it is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox, only people who have had chickenpox can get shingles. When prescribed for shingles, FAMTREX (Famvir, Famciclovir) works best in people age 50 or over.

FAMTREX (Famvir, Famciclovir) is also prescribed to treat attacks of genital herpes and to prevent future flare-ups. For people with HIV infections, it is used as a treatment for both genital and oral herpes.
Most important fact about FAMTREX (Famvir, Famciclovir) without prescriptions

FAMTREX (Famvir, Famciclovir) is most effective if started within the first 48 hours after shingles first appears; treatment should be started at the first sign or symptom of genital herpes. FAMTREX (Famvir, Famciclovir) treatment may not be effective if it is delayed more than 72 hours after the herpes zoster rash first appears or more than 6 hours after genital herpes becomes evident. Thus, it is important to see your doctor as soon as possible after symptoms appear.
How should you take FAMTREX (Famvir, Famciclovir)?

For maximum benefit, take FAMTREX (Famvir, Famciclovir) for the full time of treatment, even if your symptoms begin to clear up. Do not, however, take FAMTREX (Famvir, Famciclovir) more often or for a longer time than your doctor directs.

You may take FAMTREX (Famvir, Famciclovir) with meals or in between.

If you miss a dose...

Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take two doses at the same time.

Storage instructions

Store at room temperature.
FAMTREX (Famvir, Famciclovir) side effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking FAMTREX (Famvir, Famciclovir).

* Side effects may include:
Constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, fever, headache, nausea, vomiting

Why should FAMTREX (Famvir, Famciclovir) not be prescribed?

Do not take FAMTREX (Famvir, Famciclovir) if you are sensitive to it or have ever had an allergic reaction to it. Also avoid FAMTREX (Famvir, Famciclovir) if you are sensitive to Denavir (penciclovir cream).
Special warnings about FAMTREX (Famvir, Famciclovir)

FAMTREX (Famvir, Famciclovir) speeds healing of shingles and genital herpes, but it is not a cure. It may not prevent transmission of genital herpes to others, so you should avoid sexual intercourse whenever you have symptoms of the disease.

If you have any kidney problems, be sure your doctor knows about them before prescribing FAMTREX (Famvir, Famciclovir) for you.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking FAMTREX (Famvir, Famciclovir)

If FAMTREX (Famvir, Famciclovir) is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining FAMTREX (Famvir, Famciclovir) with probenecid (Benemid), a drug used to treat gout (a type of arthritis).
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of FAMTREX (Famvir, Famciclovir) during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. FAMTREX (Famvir, Famciclovir) should be used during pregnancy only when the benefit to the mother clearly outweighs the potential risk to the baby. FAMTREX (Famvir, Famciclovir) may appear in breast milk, and could affect a nursing infant. If FAMTREX (Famvir, Famciclovir) is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment with FAMTREX (Famvir, Famciclovir) is finished.
Recommended dosage for FAMTREX (Famvir, Famciclovir)

ADULTS
Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.