Famvir (generic name famciclovir) is a medication used to treat herpes viral infections such as cold sores, shingles and chicken pox, says Drugs.com. It belongs to the antiviral class of medications and reduces the spread of the herpes simplex virus in your body. Typically, 500 mg of Famvir is given every eight hours for about seven days. Take Famvir as your doctor prescribes to prevent major side effects.
Prevalent Side Effects
According to MedlinePlus, Famvir can cause a wide variety of routine symptoms. It can cause nausea, vomiting, headaches, flatulence (gas) and fatigue. Other common side effects include diarrhea, stomach discomfort, pruritus (itchiness), a skin rash and crippling menstrual periods. In a study of 273 patients suffering from herpes zoster and receiving 500 mg of Famvir, 22.7 percent of patients experienced a headache, 12.5 percent had nausea, 7.7 percent had diarrhea, 4.8 percent had vomiting, 1.5 percent had flatulence (gas), 4.4 percent experienced fatigue and 3.7 percent experienced itchiness. Talk to your doctor if these side effects worsen or continue.
Other Side Effects
Famvir is a common medication given to patients and is typically not dangerous. Other side effects of Famvir can include paresthesias (numbness and tingling), anemia (low red blood cells), leukopenia (low white blood cells) and increased enzyme production (natural chemicals) in your pancreas (amylase and lipase) and kidneys (serum creatinine), says the National Library of Medicine. Famvir can also slow your thinking and sense of alertness. Use caution when operating a vehicle or other heavy machinery.
Other Concerns
Avoid Famvir if you are allergic to it, its ingredients or penciclovir cream, says the National Library of Medicine. Harmful side effects such as trouble breathing, hives and constriction of your throat can occur. Famvir can also cause swelling of your tongue, face and lips. Get medical help if this occurs.
Tell your doctor whether you have a history of kidney problems, a weak immune system or galactose intolerance, says Drugs.com. Your doctor may have to adjust your dosage of Famvir to make it safe for you to take.
You should avoid combining probenicid with Famvir. This can lead to harmful side effects. Inform your doctor about your current prescription and non-prescription medications.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to breastfeed. You and your doctor will decide whether it is beneficial to continue Famvir.
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