IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

FAMCICLOVIR - ORAL TABLET
(fam-SYE-klo-veer)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Famvir

USES: This medication is an antiviral used in the treatment of shingles or in certain cases, genital herpes.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth exactly as prescribed. This medication is most effective if taken as soon as herpes is noticed. For best results, space the doses at equal intervals throughout the day (and night if directed by your doctor). This will help ensure an even level of drug in the body at all times.
Do not increase your dose or take this more often than directed. Your condition will not improve faster but the risk of side effects may be increased.
Contact your doctor if your condition does not improve or worsens.

SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, nausea, diarrhea and fatigue are most common the first few days as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor.
Notify your doctor if you experience: vomiting, skin rash, confusion, stiffness. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have allergies. Caution is advised in the elderly. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication may appear in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take including: probenecid, digoxin. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

NOTES: Do not share this medication with others.

MISSED DOSE: Try to take each dose at the scheduled time. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

STORAGE: Store this medication at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) away from heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.