Famvir
Developed to alleviate symptoms of viral outbreaks, indicated to target viral replication and support immune recovery.
- Category
- Antivirals
- Active ingredient
- Famciclovir
- Supply
- Pharmacy
- Route
- Oral use
- Form
- Film-coated tablet
- Strengths
- 250 · 500mg
Famvir details
- Conditions
- Herpes Zoster · Herpes Simplex · Genital Herpes
- Therapeutic class
- Antiviral
- Pharmacological class
- Nucleoside Analogue
- Contraindications
- hypersensitivity to famciclovir
- Precautions and warnings
- dosage adjustment required in renal impairment; maintain adequate hydration
- Minor side effects
- headache; nausea
- Moderate side effects
- dizziness; abdominal discomfort
- Dosage forms
- Film-coated tablet
- Administration route
- Oral use
- Supply category
- Pharmacist only, dispensed without a prescription
- Manufacturer
- Novartis
- Onset Time
- 24–48 hours
- Duration
- varies by indication
- Storage instructions
- Store below 30°C.
- Drug interactions
- probenecid
- Age restrictions
- Use with caution in elderly.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Pregnancy: Use only if indicated. Breastfeeding: Use with caution.
Serious side effects
hallucinations, requires immediate medical attention; jaundice, requires immediate medical attention
Patient summary
Developed to alleviate symptoms of viral outbreaks, indicated to target viral replication and support immune recovery.
Mechanism of action
Famciclovir is the prodrug of penciclovir, which inhibits viral DNA polymerase, thereby interrupting viral DNA synthesis and replication. This stops the virus from multiplying, allowing the body to manage the infection.
Where this medicine is registered
- Singapore
- Hong Kong
- Thailand
- Malaysia
- Philippines
- Indonesia
- Taiwan
- South Korea
- Japan
- Australia
- New Zealand
- UAE
- South Africa
About Famvir
Famvir is the original brand of Famciclovir, an antiviral indicated for the management of Herpes Zoster, Herpes Simplex and Genital Herpes. Produced by Novartis, this medication is supplied as a tablet in 250mg and 500mg strengths. Patients often prefer this established formulation for its consistent therapeutic performance during viral outbreaks.
Famvir availability in Asia
Famvir is registered across 14 markets including Taiwan, South Korea and Japan, with additional availability in the UAE, Singapore and Hong Kong. Accessing branded antiviral medication can be a challenge for expats and residents in areas with limited supply. As generic Famciclovir is often significantly more affordable than the Novartis original, it offers a practical alternative for those seeking consistent treatment. This medication is best used under the guidance of a physician.