Famciclovir: Uses, Side Effects & Brands in Pakistan

Famciclovir is an antiviral medicine. It is a prescription medicine used for shingles, cold sores and genital herpes. In Pakistan it is available as tablets, made by 4 different manufacturers. On this page you can read how it works, its common side effects and precautions, and compare the brands and prices available at Medimart.

How Famciclovir works

Famciclovir is converted in the body to penciclovir, which is activated inside cells infected with herpes viruses. It blocks the enzyme the virus needs to copy its DNA, stopping it from multiplying. It speeds healing and eases pain but does not remove the virus from the body.

What is Famciclovir used for?

• Shingles
• Cold sores
• Genital herpes

Famciclovir is used to treat shingles (herpes zoster) and genital herpes, and to reduce how often genital herpes outbreaks return in people who get them frequently. It may also be used for recurrent cold sores. It works best when started as soon as possible after symptoms such as tingling, pain or blisters appear.

Side effects of Famciclovir

Famciclovir is generally well tolerated. The more common side effects include:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Vomiting
• Skin rash or itching

Get medical help straight away if you develop confusion or hallucinations, swelling of the face or throat, a severe skin reaction, or shingles near the eye.

Precautions and warnings

• Start treatment as early as possible for the best effect.
• Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, as the dose may need adjusting.
• It does not stop genital herpes being passed on, so avoid sexual contact during an outbreak and use condoms.
• Older people may be more prone to confusion while taking it.
• Speak to your doctor before using it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Frequently asked questions about Famciclovir

What is the price of Famciclovir in Pakistan?

At Medimart, Famciclovir products currently in stock range from Rs 1,151 to Rs 21,861 per pack, depending on the brand, strength and pack size. The lowest-priced option right now is Viracure 250mg Tablets at Rs 1,151. Prices are updated regularly, so the product list on this page always shows the latest price.

Which brands of Famciclovir are available in Pakistan?

Famciclovir is sold in Pakistan under brand names such as Viracure (Atco Laboratories Ltd), Virovir (Crystolite Pharmaceuticals), Famclor (Genome Pharmaceuticals Ltd) and Famvir (Novartis Pharma (Pakistan)ltd).

Do I need a prescription for Famciclovir?

Yes. Famciclovir is a prescription medicine in Pakistan. Use it only when a doctor has prescribed it, at the dose and for the time they advise.

Can Famciclovir be used during pregnancy?

Speak to your doctor before using it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Are all Famciclovir brands the same?

Brands that contain the same amount of Famciclovir in the same form are expected to work in the same way, although inactive ingredients, pack sizes and prices differ. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before switching from one brand to another.

Famciclovir brands and prices in Pakistan

Medimart lists 4 products containing Famciclovir from different manufacturers. Compare strengths, pack sizes and prices below and order online with cash on delivery.

Related medicines

Domperidone · Fluconazole · Dexamethasone · Aspirin · Divalproex Sodium (Valproate) · Terbinafine