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Herpes zoster and herpes simplex are viruses that can cause infections. Of these two viral species, herpes simplex shows up in the form of sores in your anus, inside your nasal region and / or oral parts. On the other hand, herpes zoster is more likely to trigger shingles, rashes, swelling of skin or discoloration as well as blistering of skin. Drugs such as famciclovir are commonly used for the treatment of these conditions. But, what is the safe dosage level? It is a wise thing to know more on this prior to beginning your medication plan.

Viral conditions such as shingles are caused when nerve cells are under attack by viral strands. You are likely to experience skin conditions such as rashes or sores. The viral strand called varicella zoster is largely attributed to these infections; it is important to know that it is the same virus that also triggers chickenpox. The key thing to note here is – this virus can lead a passive existence for decades and may suddenly get activated at a later stage of your life. Medications like famciclovir are widely administered for treating shingles. Upon noticing signs such as fever, inflammation of lymph nodes or a persistent pain in your muscles, it is essential to take this med under the guidance of a qualified medical practitioner.

Safe dosage of famciclovir

Safe administration of famciclovir depends on a variety of factors namely, how your body responds to the first few doses, age, gender, severity of clinical condition and also based on the presence of prior disorders. This drug is widely available as an oral pill; sold with strength of 125 milligrams (mg), 250 mg and 500 mg. It must be remembered that this pill is not used onto children.

In case of oral herpes, for those aged above 18 years i.e., adults – the typical dosage is 1,500 mg within a 24-hour timeline. Dosages administered for treating genital herpes varies from those given for oral herpes. For treating infections in the genital region, doses vary based on the duration of your medication plan. If you are treated for a shorter duration, dosage hovers in the range of 1,000 mg, taken twice each day. However, if your plan is for a longer duration, strength never exceeds 250 mg, taken two times per day. Those living with infectious conditions such as HIV AIDS and onset of genital herpes or oral herpes are prescribed 500 mg as two doses every day. The medication plan typically lasts upto 7 or 9 days. On the other hand, for shingles, dose is 500 mg per 8 hours; such an intensive plan is administered for 5 – 7 days.

This drug is mostly administered only for a shorter span while treating shingles or oral herpes. However, a long term plan is administered for the treatment of genital herpes. In general, it is highly recommended to complete the medication plan and strictly adhere to all dosage instructions of your caregiver. Those who discontinued this drug without the consent of the treating doctor experienced acute spells of shingles.

Overdose of famciclovir

It is harmful to take an excessive dose of famciclovir. Users who took an overdose witnessed a few adverse side effects. Typical side effects are nausea, indigestion, headache / migraines, vomiting, swelling of oral parts and respiratory problems like panting. Upon sensing any of these, it is important to take needful clinical care on an emergency basis. People living in the US are advised to call 911 or establish contact with helplines of food and drug administration (FDA). Users living in any of the Canadian provinces are recommended to call Health Canada or reach out to a poison control unit functioning closer to where you live.

Side effects of famciclovir you need to stay aware of

Antiviral medication famciclovir may trigger some unintended reactions and side effects. Common adverse reactions it may cause are diarrhea, spells of vomiting as well as nausea with headaches. These may go off as you continue with your dosage plan. In some people though, the aforesaid adverse reactions may continue for long; in such cases, it is a safe practice to consult with your treating physician without delay.

Active ingredients of famciclovir are likely to trigger kidney related ailments; you are advised to take needful renal care upon witnessing signs like change in output of urine, yellowing of urine, painful spells of urination, etc. Famciclovir may make you drowsy. Your caregiving team may hence tell you to refrain from working on machinery, driving or sporting activities such as jumping or skiing. As an overarching safety measure, keep off from performing actions which demand intensive levels of concentration.

Last but not least, never take antiviral drug famciclovir along with antibiotic meds (for example, drugs like amoxicillin or other such bactericidal drugs). Those who combined this antiviral med along with antibiotics witnessed a marked decrease in red cells as well as haemoglobin. This malady is more likely to show up among women. On the other hand, conditions such as stomatitis or other related discomforts are likely to occur among men.

Owing to such risks, it is essential to share details about your current medication plan. Not stopping with it, provide inputs about other treatment plans you are presently pursuing. It is a safe practice to make your treating physician know of all the other meds you are taking. You are advised to make a list of all meds you are taking; as you make this list, never forget to include over the counter drugs, prescription meds, vitamins, mineral supplements, proteins, herbal meds and / or dietary aids.

In sum, dosage strength of famciclovir is influenced by your age, gender, severity of underlying condition and how well your system responds to the first few doses. For treating oral herpes, dosage is maintained at 1,500 mg each day. Your doctor may prescribe dose strength of 1,000 mg per day for treating genital herpes. Dosages are often administered as a short term plan. But, if the underlying medical condition requires a long term treatment plan, reduced dosage strength of 250 mg is often administered regularly. However, it is a safe practice to consult with your treating doctor and / or pharmacist about the safe dosage level of famciclovir prior to commencing your treatment.