Famvir

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How does it work?

Famciclovir is an antiviral medication which is used to treat certain viral infections. It acts by inhibiting the production of genetic material (DNA), which is required for reproduction and hence the survival of the virus. Famciclovir itself does not kill the virus, but by stopping it from reproducing the virus is present in lower numbers. The lower numbers mean that the body's immune system can more easily overcome the virus. Famciclovir is used in the treatment of some of the various forms of the herpes virus as well as the virus responsible for causing the symptoms of shingles.

What is it used for?

- Shingles
- To treat attacks of genital herpes and prevent recurrent attacks of genital herpes

Use with caution in

- Decreased kidney function

Not to be used in

- Children

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

- This medicine should be used with caution during pregnancy, and only if the expected benefit to the mother is greater than any possible risk to the foetus. Seek medical advice from your doctor.
- The safety of this medicine during breastfeeding has not been established. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Label warnings

- Take at regular intervals. Complete the prescribed course unless otherwise directed.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Rash
- Confusion
- False perceptions of things that are not really there (hallucinations)
- Dizziness

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

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