Famvir (famciclovir) is indicated for the treatment of acute herpes zoster (shingles). Famvir (famciclovir) is also indicated for: treatment or suppression of recurrent genital herpes in immunocompetent patients and treatment of recurrent mucocutaneous herpes simplex infections in HIV infected patients. For herpes zoster, the recommended Famvir dosage is 500 mg every 8 hours for 7 days. Therapy should be initiated promptly as soon as herpes zoster is diagnosed. No data are available on efficacy of treatment started greater than 72 hours after rash onset.
Herpes zoster appears in two stages-prodromal and eruptive. During the prodromal stage, patients experience pain that has been described as intermittent or continuous; superficial or deep; burning, aching, stabbing, or sharp. This pain is often associated with itching and extreme sensitivity to ordinary stimuli (eg, clothing, touch, or even a slight breeze). The pain, itching, and sensitivity typically occur on one side of the body or face within the area of a dermatome. Other symptoms during the prodromal stage may include numbness on one side of the body or face, and fever, headache, nausea, and chills. Many patients may not be aware of these prodromal symptoms and may believe they are experiencing other conditions such as kidney stones, gallstones, or appendicitis.
The eruptive stage occurs several days after the onset of the prodrome (average 3 to 6 days). Unilateral papules appear, followed by the formation of vesicles within 12 to 24 hours, which evolve into pustules within 3 days. These vesicles/pustules eventually dry and crust. Complete healing of the cutaneous lesions usually occurs approximately 3 to 4 weeks after rash onset. Although pain may vary in intensity, almost all patients experience pain during this stage due to cutaneous and nerve inflammation.
Herpes zoster may appear in the following locations in a unilateral/dermatome distribution: Torso, Waistline, Face, Buttocks, Arm, and Leg.
Famvir side effects include include headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or tiredness.
The efficacy of FAMVIR has not been established for the treatment of an initial outbreak of genital herpes infection. The safety and efficacy of FAMVIR for suppressive therapy beyond 1 year of treatment have not been established. Even with antiviral treatment, it is possible to spread the herpes virus. There is no cure for genital herpes.
Famvir is supplied as film-coated tablets as follows: 125 mg in bottles of 30; 250 mg in bottles of 30; and 500 mg in bottles of 30.