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Famvir (Famciclovir) Tablets

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What is Famvir?

Famvir is an antiviral medication primarily used to treat oral and genital herpes- conditions caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). It is also effective against shingles (herpes zoster), which is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV).

When taken at the first sign of an outbreak, Famvir works quickly to ease symptoms like itchy blisters and resolve the infection. It can also be taken daily to prevent herpes outbreaks before they happen.

It first received marketing authorisation in the 1990s. Since then, it has been widely used across Europe to treat many conditions caused by the herpes virus.

At euroClinix, we can prescribe it to treat genital herpes after a quick consultation with one of our doctors.

How does Famvir work?

Famvir contains the active ingredient famciclovir. This works by stopping the herpes virus from replicating. By limiting its spread, Famvir allows your immune system to control the infection and prevent symptoms from worsening.

Once ingested, famciclovir is converted into penciclovir - its active form. This substance targets the herpes simplex virus (responsible for oral and genital herpes) and the varicella-zoster virus (responsible for shingles).

While this helps breakouts heal faster and reduces symptoms caused by the herpes virus, it does not cure the condition for good. The virus remains dormant in nerve cells and can reactivate later when we experience high stress or a weakened immune system, causing future outbreaks

What are the benefits of Famvir?

Taking Famvir for your condition offers many health benefits, including:

Key benefits of Famvir

Image 1 Reduces symptoms

effectively eases symptoms such as pain, itching, and discomfort caused by cold sores.

Image 2 Treats multiple strains of the herpes virus

effective against both oral and genital herpes, as well as shingles.

Image 3 Reduces outbreak duration

clinical studies have found that Famciclovir can reduce the duration of an outbreak by approximately two days.

Image 4 Prevents new sores

clinical research also shows that this treatment can prevent the development of new sores.

Image 5 Reduces viral shedding

less likely to pass the virus on to somebody else, although the risk is not mitigated completely.

Image 6 High bioavailability

77% of the drug is converted to the active ingredient, meaning less is needed for it to be effective.

Image 7 Long-lasting protection

the half-life of this drug is 9-10 hours when treating shingles and 10-20 hours when treating oral or genital herpes.

Image 8 Suitable for long-term use to manage recurrent outbreaks*

can be taken long-term for recurrent outbreaks or daily as a preventative treatment.

*If you experience more than 6 herpes attacks a year, you may benefit from preventative treatment to suppress your condition.

How effective is Famvir?

Clinical studies have found Famvir to be highly effective in the treatment of herpes.

One study found that generic Famciclovir was significantly more effective than a placebo at treating genital herpes, while another study showed it was effective at preventing outbreaks. Most significantly, treatment with twice-daily Famciclovir:

  • Reduced the time patients were contagious
  • Reduced the duration of outbreaks
  • Reduced the frequency of outbreaks

Famciclovir clinical effectiveness

Famciclovir vs placebo in the treatment of genital herpes

Average time to heal

4.3 days

vs. 6.1 days

44% better

Outbreaks per year

1 outbreak

vs. 5 outbreaks

80% better

Aciclovir vs. Famciclovir: which is more effective?

Both treatments are highly effective in healing sores caused by the herpes virus.

If treating genital herpes, one may be more suitable for you, even if they are similarly effective for most people. Choose whichever one suits your needs best.

Who can and cannot use Famvir?

Famvir is a versatile medicine that can be used to treat many conditions caused by the herpes virus.

Who can take it?

To be prescribed this treatment from euroClinix, you must be over the age of 18 and diagnosed with genital herpes. It can also be taken to suppress the virus if you suffer from recurrent outbreaks.

Who cannot take it?

Do not take Famvir if you are allergic to famciclovir or any other ingredient in this medication.

Cautions

In addition to this, there are some instances where the safety of Famvir will need to be determined in your consultation. Tell our doctors if you have:

  • kidney problems
  • liver problems
  • problems with your immune system
  • Galactose intolerance or severe lactase deficiency

Please disclose your health status during your online consultation with euroClinix. Our medical team will evaluate whether a treatment is suitable for you and may adjust your medications if needed.

How do I take Famvir?

To use your tablets correctly, follow the dosage and treatment course our medical team prescribes. This ensures the drug's effectiveness and helps avoid side effects.

When taking your tablets, make sure to swallow them whole with a glass of water. If you split or crush your tablets, it may interfere with the absorption of the medicine. You can take it with or without food.

Dosage

The dosage prescribed varies depending on your condition. It is important to never take more than what is prescribed, as doing so can pose a serious danger to your health. If you take more than you should, immediately go to your nearest emergency room.

Famvir dosing schedule (Genital herpes)

If you have a normal immune system

When you get symptoms for the first time

250 mg 3 times a day

for 5 days

For later outbreaks

125 mg 2 times a day

for 5 days

To prevent outbreaks

250 mg 2 times a day

as your doctor advises

If you have a weakened immune system

When you get symptoms

500 mg 2 times a day

for 7 days

To prevent outbreaks

500 mg 2 times a day

as your doctor advises

When do I take it?

For best results, start your treatment as soon as symptoms appear.

If you have to take your tablets twice a day, take one in the morning after you wake up and one in the evening before you go to bed. If you have to take them three times a day, also take one around lunchtime.

Taking your tablets at these times makes it easier to remember and ensures a steady flow of the medicine in your bloodstream.

What if I miss a dose?

If you forget to take one of your tablets, take it as soon as you remember, provided your next scheduled dose is more than one hour away. Take your next dose at the regular time, and do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten one.

How long does Famvir take to work?

Famvir typically begins to work within 1-2 days, with most patients experiencing noticeable relief from symptoms during this time.

On average, it should reduce the duration of an outbreak by two days, with most patients finding their sores reduced significantly within a week.

However, the time it takes to work can vary. Generally, treatment is more effective when started earlier, but outbreaks may last longer if your immune health is compromised.

How long does a herpes outbreak last?

Outbreaks vary in length, with some lasting a few days and others lasting a few weeks. There is no real way to predict how long any given outbreak will last.

Here is the typical timeline for different conditions:

  • First-time genital herpes- 2-4 weeks
  • Recurrent genital herpes- 7-10 days
  • Shingles- 3-5 weeks

What should I do while taking Famvir?

Here are some things you can do alongside treatment to heal herpes sores faster:

How to heal herpes sores faster

Do’s

  • Keep the area clean with plain or salt water to prevent sores from becoming infected
  • Use an ice pack wrapped in a flannel to soothe pain
  • Apply petroleum jelly or a painkilling cream if suitable
  • Wash your hands thoroughly every time you touch a sore
  • Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration

Don'ts

  • Do not wear tight clothing
  • Avoid touching blisters or sores
  • Avoid things that make your sores worse (e.g., certain foods or sun exposure)
  • Do not engage in sexual contact until all symptoms have subsided

When managing herpes, focus on foods that support your immune system and reduce inflammation. Opt for lysine-rich foods like chicken, fish, and eggs, and avoid high-arginine foods like nuts, seeds, chocolate, and wholegrains.

Silvia Fonda Nutritionist

What are the Famvir side effects?

Taking Famvir can produce unwanted side effects, although not every patient will experience them.

The most common side effect of Famciclovir is headache, affecting more than 1 in 10 people who take it. Here are the other side effects.

Common side effects

The following side effects affect up to 1 in 10 people:
  • Feeling sick (nausea)
  • Vomiting
  • Abdominal pain
  • Diarrhoea
  • Dizziness
  • Rash
  • Itching
  • Liver function test giving abnormal results

Uncommon side effects

The following side effects affect up to 1 in 100 people:
  • Confusion
  • Drowsiness (more common in the elderly)
  • Itchy rash

Rare side effects

The following side effects affect up to 1 in 1,000 people:
  • Hallucinations
  • Palpitations (abnormal heartbeat)

Serious side effects

While most side effects are rarely a cause for concern, the following can be a sign of something serious:

  • Severe blistering or swelling below the skin - could be signs of a serious allergic reaction.
  • Unexplained bruising or nosebleeds - could be a sign of a decrease in the number of blood platelets (risks internal bleeding or difficulty with blood clots).
  • Yellowing of the skin and/or eyes - could be a sign of jaundice (a potentially serious liver condition).

If you experience any of these side effects, contact your doctor or go to the emergency room as soon as possible.

How to manage side effects

Most non-serious side effects can be managed by staying hydrated and taking your medicine with food. If side effects persist after a few days, consult your doctor for medical help.

If headaches occur, try taking your tablets with a glass of water and some food. If they persist, most people can take over-the-counter painkillers to alleviate pain. Ask your doctor before taking any medicines together.

Dr. Caroline Fontana Lead Prescribing Doctor

For more detailed information, please refer to the patient information leaflet sent with your order.

What interacts with Famvir?

Some medicines may affect how Famvir works or increase the risk of side effects. Tell your doctor about any other medicines you plan to take, including:

  • Raloxifene (used to prevent and treat osteoporosis) - may reduce the effectiveness of treatment.
  • Probenecid (gout medicine) - can interfere with the effectiveness of Famciclovir.
  • Cladribine (cancer medicine) - concurrent use can reduce the effectiveness of Cladribine.
  • Any medicine that affects the kidneys - can increase the risk of side effects.

This list does not cover all possible interactions. For a comprehensive list, please use the drug interactions checker on Drugs.com.

What safety advice should be followed when taking Famvir?

Category Safety Advice
Alcohol Caution While not prohibited, excessive intake of alcohol may worsen side effects. Exercise caution.
Pregnancy Consult your doctor The safety of this medicine during pregnancy has not been properly established. Consult your doctor for personalised medical advice.
Breastfeeding Unsafe Some data suggests the active ingredient can pass into breastmilk. You should not use this treatment unless a healthcare professional has deemed it necessary.
Driving Caution This medicine can cause dizziness, confusion, and drowsiness in some people. Understand how you are affected before driving or operating machinery.
Hydration Important Staying well-hydrated promotes kidney function and supports treatment.
Lactose Consult your doctor This medicine contains lactose. Consult your doctor before use if you have an intolerance.

How should I store Famvir?

To safely store your tablets, make sure to do the following:

  • Store below 25ºC in the original packaging
  • Keep away from direct heat and moisture
  • Do not use after the expiry date
  • Keep away from the sight and reach of children

Follow the storage and handling instructions provided by the manufacturer in the patient information leaflet.

Disposal

Do not throw away medicines via wastewater or household waste. Instead, take any unused medicines to your local pharmacy for disposal.

These measures ensure safety and help to protect the environment.

Can I buy Famvir without a prescription?

No, Famciclovir can only be obtained with a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.

Prescriptions are necessary because they:

  • Ensure appropriate use for your specific condition.
  • Prevent potential misuse and associated health risks.
  • Allow for monitoring of side effects and interactions with other medications.

How do I buy Famvir online from euroClinix?

Ordering Famvir online from euroClinix is convenient.

Follow these simple steps:

  1. Complete a quick online consultation to check your eligibility.
  2. UK-registered doctors review your responses to ensure the medication is right for you.
  3. Upon approval, an e-prescription will be issued.
  4. Enjoy free delivery from our licensed pharmacy with tracking details.

Your privacy is our top priority. euroClinix uses secure, encrypted transactions and complies with UK medical standards to keep your information confidential.

Start your online consultation today to enjoy professional care from the comfort of your home.

Why should I choose euroClinix?

euroClinix is trusted by thousands of users in the UK for its safe and convenient service. Here’s why:

  • Experienced doctors manage your consultations and prescriptions.
  • Online consultations, swift approvals, and discreet doorstep delivery make ordering quick and convenient.
  • A supportive team is on hand to answer treatment-related questions or concerns.
  • Patients can manage their prescriptions hassle-free through our secure platform.

Join thousands who trust euroClinix for their healthcare needs and take control of your health today.

How much does Famvir cost?

The price of Famvir at euroClinix includes everything you need:

  • Free online consultation with our experienced doctors
  • Free prescription, if approved
  • Free delivery straight to your door

Our pricing is transparent, with no hidden fees. Order today and benefit from our complete, all-inclusive service.

What alternatives are available?

If one is not right for you, there are other antiviral treatments for herpes you can take to treat your condition.

Comparison of herpes treatments
Choose what to compare:
Medication Conditions treated Form Dosage Advantage Price
Famvir (Famciclovir) Herpes viruses, shingles Oral tablet Up to three tablets daily Lasts longer in the body, meaning less frequent dosing -
Aciclovir Herpes viruses, shingles, chickenpox Oral tablet, cream Up to five tablets daily Comes in different forms, including an injection for serious infections -
Valaciclovir Herpes viruses Oral tablet Up to three tablets daily High rate of absorption, meaning less frequent dosing -

Once you’ve looked through all antiviral medication alternatives and decided on a treatment, simply fill out a consultation form at the top of this page. Once approved, you can have your medicine delivered directly to your door.

Famvir FAQs

Can Famciclovir prevent herpes outbreaks?
Can Famciclovir reduce the risk of spreading herpes?
Is herpes curable?
Is herpes zoster (shingles) contagious?
What is the cause of herpes zoster (shingles)?
Are cold sores always herpes?
Is herpes dangerous?
Can herpes kill you?
Are there any discounts for being a new user?
Is it safe to buy Famvir online?
Will my order be confidential?
What are the delivery options available?

Note: You must complete a short online consultation so that our doctor can ensure that the treatment is suitable for you. The above pricing should only be used as a reference. The final decision to issue this treatment lies with the prescribing doctor.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Caroline Fontana Written by our editorial team Last reviewed 06-03-2025
Famvir information
Type of medicine Antiviral
Used for Viral infections such as genital herpes or shingles
Active ingredient(s) Famciclovir
Works by Stopping the spread of the herpes virus, reducing symptoms and preventing future outbreaks
Effective within A few hours to a few days
Available as Tablets
Available dosage(s) 125 mg
Usage instructions Take one 125 mg tablet twice daily for five days
Packaging Blister pack containing 10 film-coated tablets
Manufacturer Various
Generic available? Yes (Famciclovir available as generic)
Storage Store below 25°C in its original packaging. Keep away from direct heat and moisture
Prescription required? Yes, get it with our FREE online consultation
Who is suitable for an online consultation* Adults with genital herpes

*Note: Our medical team must review your online consultation before approving this treatment. They will determine if the requested treatment and quantity are safe, appropriate, and effective for you.

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