What are the primary uses of Famciclovir 250mg tablets. How should Famvir be taken for optimal effectiveness. What are the potential side effects and precautions associated with Famciclovir. How does Famciclovir work to treat viral infections.

Understanding Famciclovir: An Antiviral Powerhouse

Famciclovir, marketed under the brand name Famvir, is a potent antiviral medication used to combat various herpes virus infections. This 250mg oral tablet plays a crucial role in managing outbreaks and reducing the severity of symptoms associated with these viral conditions.

How does Famciclovir work? The drug interferes with the virus’s ability to replicate, effectively slowing down its spread within the body. While it doesn’t cure herpes infections, Famciclovir significantly reduces the duration and intensity of outbreaks, providing relief to patients suffering from these persistent viral conditions.

Key Infections Treated by Famciclovir

• Herpes zoster (shingles)
• Herpes simplex (cold sores and genital herpes)
• Recurrent genital herpes outbreaks

Can Famciclovir prevent future outbreaks? In individuals with frequent genital herpes episodes, Famciclovir is often prescribed as a suppressive therapy to reduce the likelihood of future outbreaks. This preventive approach can significantly improve the quality of life for those dealing with recurrent infections.

Dosage and Administration: Maximizing Famciclovir’s Effectiveness

The proper administration of Famciclovir is crucial for achieving optimal results. Typically, the medication is taken orally, with or without food, as directed by a healthcare provider.

General Dosing Guidelines

1. Frequency: Usually 2 to 3 times daily
2. Duration: As prescribed, often until the full course is completed
3. Timing: At evenly spaced intervals to maintain consistent drug levels

When should Famciclovir treatment begin? For best results, start taking Famciclovir at the first sign of an outbreak. Early intervention can significantly reduce the severity and duration of symptoms.

Is it necessary to complete the full course of Famciclovir? Yes, it’s crucial to finish the entire prescribed amount, even if symptoms improve before the medication is gone. Stopping early may allow the virus to continue replicating, potentially leading to a prolonged or more severe outbreak.

Side Effects: Recognizing and Managing Potential Issues

While Famciclovir is generally well-tolerated, like all medications, it can cause side effects in some individuals. Being aware of these potential reactions can help patients make informed decisions and seek appropriate medical attention when necessary.

Common Side Effects

• Headache
• Nausea
• Diarrhea

These effects are usually mild and often resolve on their own. However, if they persist or worsen, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider.

Serious Side Effects Requiring Immediate Attention

• Mental/mood changes (agitation, confusion, hallucinations)
• Dizziness or drowsiness
• Signs of kidney problems
• Yellowing of eyes/skin
• Easy bruising/bleeding

How should patients respond to serious side effects? If any of these severe reactions occur, it’s crucial to seek medical help immediately. These symptoms could indicate more serious underlying issues that require prompt attention.

Precautions and Interactions: Ensuring Safe Usage of Famciclovir

Before starting Famciclovir treatment, it’s essential to consider various factors that could affect its safety and efficacy. Open communication with healthcare providers about medical history and current medications is crucial for minimizing risks and optimizing treatment outcomes.

Important Considerations

• Allergies: Inform your doctor about any allergies, especially to famciclovir or penciclovir
• Medical history: Disclose any kidney problems or other significant health conditions
• Concurrent medications: Discuss all current prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal supplements
• Lifestyle factors: Mention alcohol consumption and marijuana use, as these can interact with Famciclovir

How does Famciclovir affect driving and operating machinery? The medication may cause dizziness or drowsiness in some individuals. It’s advisable to avoid these activities until you know how Famciclovir affects you personally.

Special Populations: Tailoring Treatment for Specific Groups

Certain groups may require special consideration when using Famciclovir. Healthcare providers often need to adjust dosages or monitor these patients more closely to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Elderly Patients

Older adults may be more sensitive to Famciclovir’s side effects, particularly:

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Confusion
• Changes in urine output (indicating potential kidney issues)

How should Famciclovir be administered in elderly patients? Doctors may start with lower doses and gradually increase as needed, closely monitoring for any adverse reactions.

Patients with Kidney Problems

Famciclovir is primarily eliminated through the kidneys, making dosage adjustments necessary for individuals with impaired renal function. Regular monitoring of kidney function may be required during treatment.

Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women

Limited data is available on the use of Famciclovir during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Women in these categories should discuss the potential risks and benefits with their healthcare providers before starting treatment.

Drug Interactions: Navigating Potential Complications

Understanding how Famciclovir interacts with other medications is crucial for preventing adverse effects and ensuring optimal treatment outcomes. While Famciclovir has relatively few drug interactions compared to some other medications, it’s still important to be aware of potential issues.

Common Drug Interactions

• Probenecid: May increase Famciclovir levels in the blood
• Certain immunosuppressants: Could affect the efficacy of Famciclovir
• Live vaccines: Should be avoided during Famciclovir treatment

How can patients minimize the risk of drug interactions? Always provide a complete list of all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to your healthcare provider. They can assess potential interactions and adjust treatment plans accordingly.

Long-term Use and Resistance: Managing Chronic Viral Infections

For some patients, particularly those with recurrent genital herpes outbreaks, long-term use of Famciclovir may be recommended. While generally safe for extended periods, there are considerations to keep in mind.

Benefits of Long-term Therapy

• Reduced frequency and severity of outbreaks
• Improved quality of life
• Decreased risk of transmission to sexual partners

Is there a risk of developing resistance to Famciclovir? While viral resistance to Famciclovir is relatively rare, it can occur, especially in immunocompromised patients. Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers can help monitor for any signs of decreased efficacy over time.

Strategies for Preventing Resistance

1. Adhering to prescribed dosing schedules
2. Completing full courses of treatment
3. Combining antiviral therapy with other preventive measures (e.g., safe sex practices)

How often should patients on long-term Famciclovir therapy be evaluated? Regular check-ups, typically every 6-12 months, allow healthcare providers to assess the ongoing effectiveness of treatment and make any necessary adjustments.

Beyond Medication: Comprehensive Management of Herpes Infections

While Famciclovir plays a crucial role in managing herpes infections, a holistic approach to treatment can lead to better outcomes and improved quality of life for patients.

Lifestyle Modifications

• Stress reduction techniques (e.g., meditation, yoga)
• Adequate sleep and rest
• Balanced diet rich in nutrients that support immune function
• Regular exercise to boost overall health

How can lifestyle changes complement Famciclovir treatment? These modifications can help strengthen the immune system, potentially reducing the frequency and severity of outbreaks and enhancing the effectiveness of antiviral medication.

Psychosocial Support

Living with a chronic viral infection can be emotionally challenging. Many patients benefit from:

• Support groups
• Counseling or therapy
• Open communication with partners and loved ones

What resources are available for patients struggling with the psychological impact of herpes infections? Healthcare providers can often recommend local support groups or mental health professionals experienced in working with individuals managing chronic viral conditions.

Alternative and Complementary Therapies

Some patients explore complementary approaches to manage symptoms and support overall well-being. These may include:

• Topical treatments (e.g., aloe vera, tea tree oil)
• Herbal supplements (e.g., lysine, echinacea)
• Acupuncture

Are alternative therapies safe to use alongside Famciclovir? While some complementary approaches may offer benefits, it’s crucial to discuss any alternative treatments with a healthcare provider before incorporating them into a management plan. Some supplements or therapies could potentially interact with Famciclovir or other medications.

Patient Education: Empowering Individuals for Better Outcomes

Effective management of herpes infections goes beyond simply taking medication. Educating patients about their condition, treatment options, and preventive measures is crucial for achieving optimal outcomes and reducing the spread of the virus.

Key Educational Topics

1. Understanding the virus lifecycle and transmission
2. Recognizing early signs of outbreaks
3. Proper medication usage and importance of adherence
4. Safe sex practices and disclosure to partners
5. Stress management techniques

How can healthcare providers effectively educate patients about herpes management? Utilizing a combination of verbal explanations, written materials, and reputable online resources can help reinforce important information and empower patients to take an active role in their treatment.

Addressing Common Misconceptions

Many patients harbor misconceptions about herpes infections, which can lead to unnecessary anxiety or risky behaviors. Clarifying these myths is an essential part of patient education:

• Myth: Herpes is always sexually transmitted
• Fact: Some forms, like oral herpes, can be transmitted through non-sexual contact
• Myth: People with herpes can’t have children
• Fact: With proper management and medical guidance, individuals with herpes can safely have children
• Myth: Famciclovir cures herpes
• Fact: While highly effective at managing symptoms, Famciclovir does not eliminate the virus from the body

What strategies can patients use to stay informed about new developments in herpes treatment? Encouraging patients to maintain regular contact with their healthcare providers, join reputable patient organizations, and access reliable medical websites can help them stay up-to-date on the latest research and treatment options.

Future Directions: Advancements in Herpes Treatment

While Famciclovir and other current antiviral medications have significantly improved the management of herpes infections, ongoing research continues to explore new treatment options and potential cures.

Emerging Therapies

• Novel antiviral compounds targeting different stages of the viral lifecycle
• Immunotherapy approaches to boost the body’s natural defenses against the virus
• Gene editing techniques aimed at eliminating the virus from infected cells

How might future treatments differ from current options like Famciclovir? Emerging therapies may offer longer-lasting suppression of the virus, reduced side effects, or even the potential to eliminate the virus entirely from the body.

Vaccine Development

Efforts to develop effective vaccines against herpes simplex viruses are ongoing. While challenges remain, progress in this area could revolutionize the prevention and management of herpes infections.

What impact could a herpes vaccine have on the use of medications like Famciclovir? A successful vaccine could potentially reduce the need for ongoing antiviral therapy in some patients, although medications like Famciclovir would likely remain important for managing active infections and in individuals for whom vaccination is not effective or appropriate.

Personalized Medicine Approaches

Advances in genetic testing and biomarker identification may lead to more tailored treatment strategies for individuals with herpes infections. This could involve:

• Customized dosing regimens based on individual metabolism
• Selection of specific antivirals most likely to be effective for a particular patient
• Combination therapies targeting multiple aspects of the viral infection

How might personalized medicine improve outcomes for patients using Famciclovir? By optimizing dosing and potentially combining Famciclovir with other targeted therapies, personalized approaches could enhance efficacy, reduce side effects, and improve overall quality of life for individuals managing herpes infections.

Famvir Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Uses

Famciclovir is used to treat infections caused by certain types of viruses. It treats shingles caused by herpes zoster. It also treats outbreaks of herpes simplex that cause cold sores around the mouth, sores around the anus, and genital herpes. In people with frequent outbreaks of genital herpes, famciclovir is used to help reduce the number of future episodes.Famciclovir is an antiviral drug. However, it is not a cure for these infections. The viruses that cause these infections continue to live in the body even between outbreaks. Famciclovir decreases the severity and length of these outbreaks. It helps the sores heal faster, keeps new sores from forming, and decreases pain/itching. This medication may also help reduce how long pain remains after the sores heal. In addition, in people with a weakened immune system, famciclovir can decrease the risk of the virus spreading to other parts of the body and causing serious infections.

How to use Famvir 250 Mg Tablet

Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start taking famciclovir and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually 2 to 3 times a day.

This medication works best when started at the first sign of an outbreak, as directed by your doctor. It may not work as well if you delay treatment.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

This medication works best when the amount of drug in your body is kept at a constant level. Take this drug at evenly spaced intervals. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day.

Continue to take this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished. Do not change your dose, skip any doses, or stop this medication early without your doctor’s approval.

Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.

Side Effects

Headache, nausea, and diarrhea may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: mental/mood changes (such as agitation, slowed thinking, confusion, hallucinations), dizziness, drowsiness, signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine), yellowing eyes/skin, easy bruising/bleeding.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

Before taking famciclovir, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to penciclovir; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney problems.

This drug may rarely make you dizzy or drowsy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).

This medication may contain lactose. If you have certain conditions such as galactose intolerance, severe lactase deficiency (not lactose or milk intolerance), or glucose-galactose malabsorption that require you to restrict your intake of lactose, consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking this medication.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

Do not have certain immunizations/vaccinations (such as vaccines against the varicella virus) without the consent of your doctor.

Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, and change in the amount of urine (kidney problems).

Famciclovir does not protect against the spread of genital herpes. To lower the chance of giving herpes to your partner, do not have sexual contact during an outbreak or if you have symptoms. You can spread genital herpes even if you do not have symptoms. Always use an effective barrier method (latex or polyurethane condoms/dental dams) during all sexual activity. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. It may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Does Famvir 250 Mg Tablet interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

Do not share this medication with others.

This medication has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for another infection unless your doctor tells you to.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

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CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

Apo-Famciclovir – Uses, Side Effects, Interactions

How does this medication work? What will it do for me?

Famciclovir belongs to the family of medications known as antivirals.It is used to treat genital herpes and prevent recurring episodes of genital herpes. It is also used to treat shingles (a painful rash caused by some herpes viruses, also known as herpes zoster).

People infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the virus that causes AIDS, may also be prescribed famciclovir to treat mucocutaneous herpes (herpes simplex outbreaks around the lips and mouth).

These infections are caused by viruses. Famciclovir prevents the virus from making DNA and copying itself, and so leads to lower levels of virus in the blood. It helps to prevent the virus from multiplying and spreading to nearby healthy cells, which helps healing.

This medication may be available under multiple brand names and/or in several different forms. Any specific brand name of this medication may not be available in all of the forms or approved for all of the conditions discussed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here.

Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.

What form(s) does this medication come in?

125 mg
Each white, round, biconvex, film-coated tablet, engraved “APO” on one side and “FAM” over “125” on the other side, contains 125 mg of famciclovir. Nonmedicinal ingredients: poloxamer 407, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, stearic acid, titanium dioxide, polyethylene glycol, and butylated hydroxyl toluene.

250 mg
Each white, round, biconvex, film-coated tablet, engraved “APO” on one side and “FAM” over “250” on the other side, contains 250 mg of famciclovir. Nonmedicinal ingredients: poloxamer 407, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, stearic acid, titanium dioxide, polyethylene glycol, and butylated hydroxyl toluene.

500 mg
Each white, oval, biconvex, film-coated tablet, engraved “APO” on one side and “FAM 500” on the other side, contains 500 mg famciclovir. Nonmedicinal ingredients: poloxamer 407, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, stearic acid, titanium dioxide, polyethylene glycol, and butylated hydroxyl toluene.

How should I use this medication?

To treat shingles, the recommended adult dose of famciclovir is 500 mg taken 3 times daily for 7 days. Treatment is started within 72 hours of the onset of the rash.

To treat genital herpes, the recommended adult dose is 125 mg taken twice a day for 5 days. Start treatment during the prodromal period (the period during which early symptoms warn of a herpes flare-up) or as soon as you notice lesions.

To prevent recurrent episodes of genital herpes, the recommended dose is 250 mg taken twice a day for up to 1 year.

To treat mucocutaneous herpes, the recommended dose is 500 mg taken twice a day for 7 days.

Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.

The tablets should be swallowed whole and may be taken with or without food. Famciclovir must be taken for the recommended duration of treatment, even if you are feeling better. This will help prevent the episode from flaring up and returning.

It is important to take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose (within 1 hour), skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Store this medication at room temperature and keep it out of the reach of children.

Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.

Who should NOT take this medication?

Do not take famciclovir if you are allergic to famciclovir or to any of the ingredients of the medication.

What side effects are possible with this medication?

Many medications can cause side effects.  A side effect is an unwanted response to a medication when it is taken in normal doses. Side effects can be mild or severe, temporary or permanent. The side effects listed below are not experienced by everyone who takes this medication. If you are concerned about side effects, discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor.

The following side effects have been reported by at least 1% of people taking this medication. Many of these side effects can be managed, and some may go away on their own over time.

Contact your doctor if you experience these side effects and they are severe or bothersome. Your pharmacist may be able to advise you on managing side effects.

• diarrhea
• dizziness
• drowsiness
• headache
• nausea
• unusual tiredness or weakness
• vomiting

Although most of the side effects listed below don’t happen very often, they could lead to serious problems if you do not seek medical attention.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:

• abdominal pain
• confusion
• fast or pounding heartbeat
• hallucinations
• purplish patches on skin
• signs of bleeding (e.g., nosebleeds, blood in urine, coughing blood, bleeding gums, unusual bruising or bleeding)
• symptoms of liver problems (e.g., abdominal tenderness, yellow eyes or skin, skin rash, itching, dark urine)
• skin rash

Stop taking the medication and seek immediate medical attention if any of the following occur:

• seizures
• symptoms of a serious allergic reaction (such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat; skin rash; hives; or difficulty breathing)
• signs of a severe skin reaction (e.g., a rash combined with fever or discomfort, a rash covering a large area of the body, a rash that spreads quickly, blistering, peeling)

Some people may experience side effects other than those listed.  Check with your doctor if you notice any symptom that worries you while you are taking this medication.

Are there any other precautions or warnings for this medication?

Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use this medication.

Drowsiness/reduced alertness: This medication can cause drowsiness, dizziness, or confusion in rare cases. Do not drive or engage in other activities requiring alertness if the medication affects you in this way.

Genital herpes: Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection with an increased risk of passing it on to a sexual partner during acute episodes. It is not known if famciclovir will prevent transmission of the infection. If you are using this medication for this reason, avoid intercourse when lesions or symptoms are present (even if treatment with an antiviral has been started) in order to avoid infecting partners. Genital herpes can also be transmitted in the absence of symptoms.

Kidney or liver disorders: If you have liver disease, kidney disease, or reduced kidney function, discuss with your doctor how this medication may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed.

Pregnancy: This medication should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, contact your doctor immediately.

Breast-feeding: It is not known if famciclovir passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking this medication, it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.

Children: The safety and effectiveness of this medication for children and adolescents under the age of 18 years have not been established.

What other drugs could interact with this medication?

There may be an interaction between famciclovir and any of the following:

• cladribine
• varicella virus vaccine
• zoster vaccine

If you are taking any of these medications, speak with your doctor or pharmacist. Depending on your specific circumstances, your doctor may want you to:

• stop taking one of the medications,
• change one of the medications to another,
• change how you are taking one or both of the medications, or
• leave everything as is.

An interaction between two medications does not always mean that you must stop taking one of them. Speak to your doctor about how any drug interactions are being managed or should be managed.

Medications other than those listed above may interact with this medication.  Tell your doctor or prescriber about all prescription, over-the-counter (non-prescription), and herbal medications you are taking. Also tell them about any supplements you take. Since caffeine, alcohol, the nicotine from cigarettes, or street drugs can affect the action of many medications, you should let your prescriber know if you use them.

All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2023. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/Apo-Famciclovir

Active substance FAMCICLOVIR (FAMCICLOVIRUM) | Compendium – drug reference book

• Pharmacological properties
• Indications FAMCICLOVIR
• Application of FAMCICLOVIR
• Contraindications
• Side effects
• Special instructions
• Interactions
• Overdose
• Diagnosis
• Recommended alternatives
• Trade names

Medicinal preparations containing the active substance FAMCICLOVIR

Viraxa

film-coated tablets 250 mg blister No. 21

Xantis Pharma

Pharmacy prices

Viraxa

film-coated tablets 50 0 mg blister, № 14

Xantis Pharma

Pharmacy prices

Virostat

film-coated tablets 250 mg blister, № 21

Kiev Vitamin Plant

Prices in pharmacies 500 mg blister, № 21

Kiev Vitamin Plant

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Famvir ^®

film-coated tablets 250 mg, № 21

Atnas Pharma UK Limited 9002 9

Pharmacy prices

Famvir ^®

coated tablets film coating 500 mg, No. 14

Atnas Pharma UK Limited

Prices in pharmacies

antiviral agent. After oral administration, famciclovir is rapidly converted to penciclovir, which has in vitro and in vivo activity against human herpes viruses, including Varicella zoster virus and Herpes simplex type I and II, as well as Epstein-Barr viruses and cytomegalovirus. Penciclovir enters virus-infected cells, where, under the action of viral thymidine kinase, it quickly turns into monophosphate, which in turn, with the participation of cellular enzymes, turns into triphosphate. Penciclovir triphosphate is present in virus-infected cells for more than 12 hours, inhibiting the synthesis of viral DNA in them, disrupting viral replication. T _½ penciclovir triphosphate in cells affected by Varicella zoster , Herpes simplex I and II is 9, 10 and 20 hours, respectively. The concentration of penciclovir triphosphate in uninfected cells does not exceed the minimum detectable value, therefore, at therapeutic concentrations, penciclovir has no effect on uninfected cells. Penciclovir is active against recently discovered acyclovir-resistant strains of the Herpes simplex virus with an altered DNA polymerase. It has been established that the incidence of resistance to famciclovir (penciclovir) does not exceed 0.3%, and 0.19% – in patients with a reduced immune status. The use of famciclovir significantly reduces the severity and duration of postherpetic neuralgia in patients with herpes zoster.

infections caused by Varicella zoster (herpes zoster), including herpes zoster with visual complications; infections caused by Herpes simplex (type I and II): primary infection, recurrent chronic infection.

for infections caused by Varicella zoster , in patients with normal immune status, the recommended dose is 250 mg 3 times a day or 500 mg 2 times a day, or 750 mg 1 time a day for 7 days (acute phase of the disease). With complications from the organ of vision, the recommended dose is 500 mg 3 times a day for 7 days. For infections caused by the Varicella zoster virus, patients with a reduced immune status are prescribed at a dose of 500 mg 3 times a day for 10 days. In primary herpes infection caused by viruses Herpes simplex types I and II, in patients with a normal immune status, is prescribed at a dose of 250 mg 3 times a day for 5 days. Treatment should begin as early as possible, immediately after the first symptoms of the disease appear. In case of recurrence of chronic infections, adults are prescribed 125 mg 2 times a day for 5 days. Treatment should begin already in the prodromal period or immediately after the onset of symptoms of the disease. With herpes infection caused by Herpes simplex I and II types in patients with a reduced immune status are prescribed at a dose of 500 mg 2 times a day for 7 days. Treatment should begin as early as possible, immediately after the first symptoms of the disease appear. In case of recurrent herpetic infection, 250 mg is prescribed 2 times a day. Periodic discontinuation is recommended once every 12 months to assess possible changes in the course of the disease. In HIV-infected patients, the effective dose is 500 mg 2 times a day. Dose adjustment in elderly patients with unchanged renal function is not required. In patients with impaired renal function, a decrease in the clearance of penciclovir is noted. Adequate correction of the dosing regimen is recommended depending on creatinine clearance. When administered to patients with impaired renal function who are on hemodialysis, it should be borne in mind that after 4 hours of hemodialysis, the concentration of penciclovir in the blood plasma decreases by approximately 75%, so the dose of famciclovir should be taken immediately after the hemodialysis procedure. The recommended dose is 250 mg (for patients with herpes zoster) and 125 mg (for patients with genital herpes).

In patients with liver disease in the compensation phase, dose adjustment is not required. There are no data on the use of famciclovir in severe decompensated chronic liver diseases, therefore there are no exact recommendations for the dosage of famciclovir in this category of patients. The efficacy and safety of famciclovir in children have not been studied.

hypersensitivity to famciclovir, penciclovir.

Famciclovir was well tolerated in human studies. With the same frequency as in patients receiving placebo, mild to moderate headache and nausea were noted. In post-marketing studies, vomiting, dizziness, skin rash (mainly in elderly patients), confusion and hallucinations were rarely noted. Immunocompromised patients also experienced abdominal pain, fever, and, rarely, granulocytopenia and thrombocytopenia.

Since the safety of famciclovir during pregnancy and lactation has not been studied, its use during this period is not recommended unless the possible benefits of treatment outweigh the potential risk. It is not known whether penciclovir is excreted in breast milk. Famciclovir does not have a pronounced effect on the spermogram, morphology or motility of human spermatozoa. In experimental studies, no embryotoxic and teratogenic effects of famciclovir and penciclovir were detected. Caution should be exercised when treating patients with impaired renal function, for whom dosage adjustment may be required. Special precautions in the treatment of elderly patients are not required.

No clinically significant pharmacokinetic interaction of famciclovir with other drugs was noted. Preclinical studies have not revealed the effect of famciclovir on the cytochrome P450 system. Probenecid and other drugs that affect kidney function can change the level of penciclovir in blood plasma.

described cases of overdose (10.5 g) of famciclovir were not accompanied by clinical manifestations. Maintenance therapy is prescribed according to indications. If recommendations to reduce the dose of famciclovir, taking into account kidney function, in patients with kidney disease, cases of acute renal failure were noted.