Herpes simplex virus (HSV) are treated with antiviral agents called nucleosides and nucleotide analogues. They block reproduction of Virus that causes Herpes Simplex. Acyclovir, valacyclovir and famciclovir are used for oral treatment Herpes simplex virus drugs. There are other similar antiviral drugs but generally used to treat other different viruses.
Acyclovir, Valacyclovir and famcyclovir class of drugs may primarily reduce severity of an epidemic. Valacyclovir and famcyclovir also accelerate the healing process and reduce transmissible effectiveness of virus.
Famcyclovir (Famvir)
Famcyclovir's brand name is Famvir. It is a prodrug of a different antiviral called penciclovir, which is very similar to Valacyclovir. Famcyclovir has been approved for the treatment and suppression of genital herpes, however, its efficacy has not been established in regards to treatment of the first initial outbreak. It can be prescribed as a daily medication to help stop outbreaks from coming back, however, it is normally only prescribed in this way (as a suppressive) if the outbreaks are very frequent, such as 6 or more per year.
Recommended Dose
Famcyclovir needs to be taken the least frequently out of all of the herpes medications, but is more expensive. It should be taken no less than two times a day to be effective for genital herpes, but only once a day for cold sores. Like all of the herpes medications, it should be started at the first sign of symptoms, such as tingling or itching, to be most effective.
