Generic name:famciclovir [ fam-SYE-klo-veer ]
Drug class:Purine nucleosides
The Famvir brand name has been discontinued in the U.S. If generic versions of this product have been approved by the FDA, there may be generic equivalents available.
What is Famvir?
Famvir is an antiviral drug. It slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus so that the body can fight off the infection. Famciclovir will not cure herpes, but it can lessen the symptoms of the infections.
Famvir is used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses, including genital herpes, cold sores, and shingles.
Famvir is sometimes used in people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) who develop herpes outbreaks around the mouth, genitals, or anal area.
Famvir may not be effective in treating your first episode of genital herpes, but may help prevent future episodes. Famciclovir also may not be effective in Black or African-American people with genital herpes, and may not be effective in any person with shingles (herpes zoster) affecting the eyes.
Famvir is used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses, including genital herpes, cold sores, and shingles.
There is no cure for herpes and famciclovir will not prevent you from developing symptoms in the future.
Warnings
You should not take Famvir if you are allergic to famciclovir or penciclovir cream (Denavir). Take this medicine for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared.
Treatment with Famvir should be started as soon as possible after the first appearance of symptoms (such as tingling, burning, blisters).
Herpes infections are ...
