Oral famciclovir (brand name Famvir) is used for a variety of herpes infections. It can help shorten the course of cold sores (fever blisters), which are caused by an infection by Herpes Simplex (usually type 1). Genital herpes is also caused by the Herpes Simplex virus (normally type 2) and responds to famciclovir. This medicine can shorten a first outbreak, diminish recurrent bouts of sores and decrease viral shedding. Famciclovir is also taken for shingles, which originates from the chickenpox virus, Herpes Zoster, or what some refer to as Varicella Zoster. Famciclovir works by blocking herpes DNA replication. This medicine is not a cure.
Restrictions
This medication contains lactose, the sugar found in milk. Some people are born with a serious genetic condition called galactosemia and must avoid all products with lactose. Galactosemia is not the same as lactose intolerance, but you should also avoid famciclovir if you have severe lactose intolerance.
If you are taking the medicine Probenicid, this drug can increase the blood levels of famciclovir, increasing your risk for side effects.
Severe kidney disease is a contraindication; milder kidney disease requires downward dose adjustment.
Gastrointestinal Side Effects
Nausea is the primary complaint. Other side effects include diarrhea, abdominal pain, flatulence and vomiting.
Gynecologic Side Effects
Some women report heavier menstrual bleeding and increased cramps.
Central Nervous System Side Effects
Headache is one of the most common complaints, along with drowsiness and fatigue.
Low Incidence of Side Effects
Famciclovir has a low incidence of any of these side effects. Even the most common side effect of headache and nausea only occurred in less 1/1,000 people, while other adverse reactions manifested in 1/10,000 patients.
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