Famvir

Famvir is an antiviral, available in tablet form, that controls and eliminates recurrent infections caused by different forms of the herpes virus.

The herpes simplex virus includes HSV-1 (cold sores), HSV-2 (genital herpes) and herpes zoster (shingles).

Famvir is prescribed to treat shingles, cold sores and genital herpes. Whilst none of these conditions can be cured, Famvir alleviates symptoms, helps your body recover and reduces the frequency of outbreaks.

This treatment is also particularly popular for sufferers of shingles, as it is one of the few antivirals that can reduce the nerve pain associated with the condition.

The active ingredient in Famvir is famciclovir, which is classed as a 'pro-drug'. Any pro-drug changes into a much more powerful compound once digested.

In this case, once you take a famciclovir tablet, it converts into another active ingredient called penciclovir that prevents the herpes virus from multiplying. It does this by stopping the virus from producing a certain enzyme needed for reproduction. Your body can then more easily fight off the infection.

The virus will then return to a dormant state in your body.

You should always follow the advice of your doctor. Comprehensive instructions are also detailed in the patient information leaflet (PIL).

Please note, you should drink plenty of fluids whilst taking this medication to avoid dehydration, especially if you're elderly.

The sooner antivirals are taken after noticing symptoms, the better.

Antivirals should always be taken for the full length of the course, whether you're given a 5-day dosage or 10-day.

• doses can be taken with or without food and ideally with a glass of water
• you should take doses at the same time every day
• if you miss a dose, do not take two tablets at once. Continue as normal until the treatment finishes, or if you remember shortly after the missed pill, take it ASAP.

The following are the recommended dosages dependent on what you're using Famvir for. Please always read the patient leaflet before taking any prescription drug:

Shingles

If you have a normal immune system, take one 500mg pill three times per day for 7 days.

If you have a reduced immune system, take one 500mg pill three times per day for 10 days.

Genital herpes

If you have a normal immune system, take one tablet of 250 mg three times a day, for five days.

To treat further outbreaks, take one tablet of 125 mg twice a day, for five days.

To prevent future outbreaks, take one tablet of 250 mg twice a day.

If you have a reduced immune system, take one tablet of 500 mg twice a day, for seven days.

To prevent future outbreaks,take one 500 mg tablet twice a day.

The doctor will inform you of the duration of the course.

If you experience frequent bouts, you can use this medication for over a year as a preventive treatment for genital herpes. You should first discuss this option with your GP.

There is always a risk of adverse effects when taking prescription medication, however even those classed as ‘common’ are unlikely to occur. For a full list, please consult the patient leaflet.

The most common side effects include:

• abdominal pain
• diarrhoea
• dizziness
• headache
• nausea
• skin reactions
• vomiting

If any of the above cause you distress, or if you experience more serious reactions, stop taking the medication immediately, and contact your doctor as soon as possible.

If you believe you are suffering an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical help. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, swelling on the neck, lips and throat and skin reactions.

You should inform your doctor of any other medications you are taking before you decide to buy Famvir. You can also inform our doctors at the consultation stage of your order. Please answer any questions thoroughly.

Unfortunately, the herpes virus is incurable and can be transferred to partners at any time. Refraining from sex during outbreaks and making sure you are containing the virus is essential.

You should be cautious when taking Famvir should any of the following apply to you:

• you have kidney issues (decreased kidney function)
• you have an uncontrolled liver disease
• you have a severe lactase deficiency or galactose intolerance

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, please consult your doctor before starting this treatment. It is not known whether or not the active ingredient can transfer in breast milk.

Please note, Famvir can cause drowsiness and dizziness. If you experience either of these, you should avoid driving and operating heavy machinery.

Yes, you can buy Famvir online from HealthExpress. We ask that you first fill out a quick consultation to be reviewed by one of our doctors.

If they approve, your order will be shipped with next-day delivery. If they do not, you may be asked to provide additional details. All our doctors are registered with UK-regulatory agencies and review your medical details to ensure your selected treatment is safe for your use.

Is it safe to buy Famvir online?

As long as the pharmacy you are purchasing from is verified and regulated by relevant government agencies, it is completely safe to purchase medication online.

HealthExpress is authorised by the Care Quality Commision (CRC) and the Medicines and Healthcare Regulatory Agency (MHRA). Certificates can be viewed in the footer of this page.