Q: Is there a similar treatment to Famciclovir?
Famciclovir is the generic form of Famvir. Both have the same active ingredient and come in the same doses. The key differences lie in the packaging and cost. You can choose either the branded or generic version, but generally, the generic option is more affordable.
Q: What are the alternatives to Famciclovir?
Famciclovir is an antiviral medication used to treat herpes. Other antiviral options include Aciclovir, Valaciclovir (known by the brand name Valtrex), and Zovirax.
Aciclovir is the active ingredient that prevents viruses from growing by either killing them or stopping them. Similar to Famciclovir, it attaches to the DNA of the herpes virus, stopping it from growing.
Aciclovir is available in several forms: tablets, cream, powder or concentrate for solution, and oral suspension. The tablets are available in 200mg, 400mg, and 800mg doses and can either be swallowed whole or dissolved in water. Typically, the treatment involves taking five tablets a day. Aciclovir is also known by the brand name Zovirax. The cream should be applied to the affected area five times a day for up to 10 days. However, research has shown that topical treatments are generally less effective than oral medications.
Valaciclovir is another antiviral medication used for genital herpes. It works by stopping the virus from replicating by interfering with DNA synthesis. Typically, the dosage for herpes is one 500mg tablet taken twice daily.
The choice of antiviral medication is entirely yours. They all function in a similar manner and are effective in treating herpes. However, like all antimicrobials, there's a possibility that you could develop resistance to one of them. This means the medication might stop being effective against the virus, and you may need to switch to a different treatment for your infection.
Q: Can I take Famciclovir while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Famciclovir should only be used in pregnancy if absolutely necessary. If you need to take it while pregnant, your doctor will talk to you about any possible risks.
Additionally, it's not known if Famciclovir is present in breast milk. You won't be given it unless necessary, but if it is, your doctor will talk to you about any potential risks.
In general, it's wise to steer clear of intercourse if you have genital herpes, even when you're undergoing treatment, as the infection can be passed on to your partner.
Q: How effective is Famciclovir?
A total of 455 patients with a history of recurrent genital herpes were treated with either 125 mg or 250 mg of Famciclovir three times a day, 250 mg twice a day, or a placebo for a year. After 12 months, the time before herpes recurred was significantly longer for those taking Famciclovir, ranging from 222 to 336 days, compared to just 45 days for those on the placebo. Furthermore, 79%-86% of patients on Famciclovir remained free of herpes at 6 months, while only 27% of those on the placebo did.
After contracting genital herpes, the virus stays in your body permanently, which means flare-ups can happen frequently.
Not everyone will have a recurrence, but if you often do, Famciclovir can help prevent them. It can also increase the time between outbreaks, making the infection easier to handle.
