Shingles is caused by infection of varicella zoster virus (VZV). Patients will feel strong pain on the blisters formed as a group over their bodies. Shingles often takes place in older people who had chickenpox before. It can cause blindness if there are shingles near the eyes.
Famciclovir inhibits DNA polymerase of VZV and other herpes viruses and stops virus proliferation to treat Herpes Simplex Virus infection and shingles.
Famciclovir is available as oral tablets.
Shingles infection
Adult
500 mg 3 times a day for 7 days.
OR
750 mg 1-2 times a day for 7 days.
Immunocompromised Adult
500 mg 3 times a day for 7 days, continue for 2 days after crusting of lesions.
Genital Herpes Suppression
Adult
250 mg twice a day. Check every 6-12 months for recurrence frequency.
Immunocompromised Adult
500 mg twice a day. Check every 6-12 months for recurrence frequency.
Genital Herpes Infection, first episode
Adult
250 mg, 3 times a day for 5 days. Continue if a new lesion appears or incomplete healing.
Immunocompromised Adult
500 mg twice daily for 10 days.
Genital Herpes Infection, recurrence
Adult
125 mg, two times a day for 5 days.
OR
1 g twice a day for 1 day.
Immunocompromised Adult
500 mg 2 times a day for 5-10 days.
Non-genital herpes simplex infection
Immunocompromised Adult
500 mg 2 times a day for 7 days.
Common dosing schedule:
Take Famciclovir 1-3 times daily for 5-10 days.
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Famciclovir may interact with:
Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.
In Hong Kong, Famciclovir is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Famciclovir in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
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