Famciclovir 104227-87-4

Indications

Famciclovir is indicated for the treatment of herpes zoster (shingles). To treat genital herpes it is taken twice a day for 1 day. To treat herpes labialis (cold sores), famciclovir is given as a single 1500 mg oral dose. It is also sometimes given in one single large dose as opposed to several days of scheduled small doses. Among other side effects, Famciclovir may cause an upset stomach. Take famciclovir with food or milk.

Adverse effects

Side effects: mild to extreme stomach upset, headaches, mild fever

Herpes post-exposure prophylaxis use

Several studies in humans and mice provide evidence that early treatment with Famciclovir soon after the first infection with herpes can significantly lower the chance of future outbreaks of herpes. Use of Famciclovir in this manner, known as post-exposure prophylaxis, has been shown to reduce the amount of latent virus in the neural ganglia. Despite these promising results, early Famciclovir treatment for herpes in this or similar dosage regimes has yet to find mainstream adoption. As a result, some doctors and patients have opted for off-label use. One suggested regime is Famciclovir at 10–20 mg/kg per day for 5–14 days, with treatment to commence as soon as possible after the first herpes infection(not the first symptoms or outbreak), and the most effective time for initiating treatment to be five days or less after the first herpes infection.