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Antiviral medication used to treat and suppress herpes zoster (shingles), genital herpes, and recurrent cold sores (herpes labialis).
Reviewed by:
Dr. Steve Malen, PharmD
Dr. Steven Blikstein, PharmD
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Famciclovir is a prodrug that is converted to penciclovir, which inhibits viral DNA polymerase and stops replication of herpes simplex virus (HSV) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It is used to treat herpes zoster (shingles), to treat and suppress recurrent genital herpes outbreaks, and to treat recurrent herpes labialis (cold sores), and is generally most effective when started within 48-72 hours of symptom onset. Common side effects include headache and nausea. It should be used with caution in patients with renal impairment, as dose adjustment is required based on kidney function.
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Famciclovir is converted in the body to penciclovir, an antiviral that inhibits herpes simplex virus (HSV) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV) DNA polymerase, stopping viral replication. It is used to treat shingles, treat and suppress recurrent genital herpes, and treat recurrent cold sores.
Common side effects include headache and nausea.
Precautions: Treatment is most effective when started as soon as possible after symptom onset (ideally within 48-72 hours for shingles, or at the first sign of a cold sore or genital herpes recurrence). Dose adjustment is required in patients with reduced kidney function. Famciclovir does not cure herpes infections and does not prevent transmission to sexual partners; patients with genital herpes should be counseled on safer-sex practices.