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Missed Dose
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one as directed. Do not take a double dose of
this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
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What is this Drug
Famciclovir is used to treat the symptoms of herpes zoster (also known as shingles), a herpes virus infection of the skin. It is used to treat and suppress recurrent episodes of genital herpes infect
ion. This medicine is also used to treat recurrent herpes virus infections of the mucous membranes (lips and mouth) and genitals in HIV-infected patients. Although famciclovir will not cure genital he
rpes or herpes zoster, it does help relieve the pain and discomfort and helps the sores heal faster.
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How should you take this medication?
Take Famvir ( Famciclovir )exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you. ? Treatment with Famvir ( Famcic
lovir )should be started as soon as possible after the first appearance of symptoms (e.g. tingling, burning, blisters). ? Take each dose with a full glass of water. ? Famvir ( Famciclovir )can be take
n with or without food. Taking Famvir ( Famciclovir )with food may decrease stomach upset. ? Take all of the Famvir ( Famciclovir )that has been prescribed for you even if you begin to feel better
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Possible Side Effect
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 Famvir.
More common
- Constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, fever, headache, nausea, vomiting
Less common
- Abdominal pain, back pain, chills and fever, gas, indigestion, injury,
insomnia, irritated sinuses, itching, joint pain, loss of appetite, pain, prickling or burning sensation of the skin, sleepiness, sore throat, upper respiratory infection
There have been inf
requent cases of hallucinations, hives, and rash, and some people---especially older adults---may experience confusion, including delirium and disorientation.
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What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking famciclovir,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to famciclovir, acyclovir (Zovirax), or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescript
ion and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially digoxin (Lanoxin), probenecid (Benemid), and vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney or liver disease, prob
lems with your immune system, human immunodeficiency virus infection (HIV), or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are b
reast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking famciclovir, call your doctor.
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What special precautions should I follow?
If your symptoms do not improve within a few days, or if they become worse, check with your doctor.
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The areas affected by herpes should be kept as clean and dry as possible. Also, wear loos
e-fitting clothing to avoid irritating the sores (blisters).
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