To treat shingles, the recommended adult dose of famciclovir is 500 mg taken 3 times daily for 7 days. Treatment is started within 72 hours of the onset of the rash.
To treat genital herpes, the recommended adult dose is 125 mg taken twice a day for 5 days. Start treatment during the prodromal period (the period during which early symptoms warn of a herpes flare-up) or as soon as you notice lesions.
To prevent recurrent episodes of genital herpes, the recommended dose is 250 mg taken twice a day for up to 1 year.
To treat mucocutaneous herpes, the recommended dose is 500 mg taken twice a day for 7 days.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
The tablets should be swallowed whole and may be taken with or without food. Famciclovir must be taken for the recommended duration of treatment, even if you are feeling better. This will help prevent the episode from flaring up and returning.
It is important to take Famvir exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose (within 1 hour), skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store Famvir at room temperature and keep it out of the reach of children.
Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.