Famciclovir (Famvir)

Category:

  • Antiviral

Description:

  • Inhibits viral replication

  Indications:

  • Acute herpes zoster (shingles)

  • Genital herpes simplex treatment and prophylaxis

Precautions:

  • Pregnancy category B

  • Dosing modification is required for patients with impaired renal function.

  • Patient may take medication with or without food.

  • Avoid sexual contact when genital lesions are present.

  • Medication treatment is not a cure for viral infection.

  • Do not exceed recommended dose.

  • Initiate therapy at earliest signs of symptoms.

  Adverse Reactions (Side Effects):

  • Headache (22%)

  • Dizziness (3.3%)

  • Fatigue (4.4%)

Nausea (12.5%)

Diarrhea (7.7%)

Dosage:

Administered as an oral tablet

Herpes zoster:

  • 500mg q8h for 7 days

Genital herpes (recurrent episodes):

  • 125mg bid for 5 days

Source: Operational Medicine 2001,  Health Care in Military Settings, NAVMED P-5139, May 1, 2001, Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, Department of the Navy, 2300 E Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20372-5300  

Gynecology and Obstetrics CD-ROM
Volumes 1-6
2004 Edition
 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins
Copyright 2004
All Rights Reserved