Famvir

Famvir

Famvir is an antiviral medicine used to treat herpes breakouts.

The treatment works best when the virus is in its most active phase and symptoms occur.

What are the symptoms of herpes?

Symptoms of a herpes breakout include:

• Painful blisters
• Flu-like symptoms like fever
• Itching and burning feeling in the affected area
• Nausea
• Pain when urinating

How does Famvir work?

When taken, the active ingredient of Famvir (famciclovir) is converted into penciclovir – an antiviral that inhibits the production of an enzyme that the virus uses to replicate itself.

By inhibiting the virus’s ability to replicate, the body’s immune system can fight the infection more effectively, improving the symptoms of herpes and pushing the virus back into remission.

What is herpes?

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is the virus commonly associated with cold sores and is known as HSV-1. HSV-2 is the particular strain of the virus that is associated with genital herpes.

How is Herpes spread?

The virus is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact such as kissing, genital touching, oral sex and penetrative intercourse – vaginal and anal sex. The virus can also be spread when no symptoms are present.

Symptoms of herpes include:

• Blisters around the genitals or anus
• Burning or itching around your genitals
• Cold sores around the mouth
• Open sores around the genitals
• Pain when urinating
• Vaginal discharge

Is there a herpes cure?

There is currently no cure for herpes, but there are various treatments to relieve the symptoms quickly and prevent the virus from spreading. Once a person is infected with herpes, the virus remains dormant in their body.

How to take Famvir?

The typical dose of Famvir is one 125 mg tablet taken twice a day for five days. Always follow the doctor’s instructions. Swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water.

Famvir side effects and cautions

All medications carry the risk of side effects. It’s important to educate yourself on the side effects associated with your medication. Always read the patient information leaflet enclosed with your medication.

Common side effects of Famvir include:

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Itching
• Nausea
• Rash
• Vomiting

Uncommon side effects include:

• Confusion
• Drowsiness
• Hallucinations
• Liver problems