Drug reference

famciclovir

For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.

Drug class

Anti Virals (Herpesvirus)

Mechanism of action

Prodrug of penciclovir, which selectively inhibits viral DNA replication in herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1 (HSV-1), HSV-2, and varicella zoster virus (VZV)

Common side effects

  • Flatulence
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Dysmenorrhea
  • Abdominal pain
  • Diarrhea

Contraindications

  • Known hypersensitivity to this drug or its active metabolite, penciclovir

Related conditions

Frequently asked questions

What drug class is famciclovir?

famciclovir belongs to: Anti Virals.

How does famciclovir work?

Prodrug of penciclovir, which selectively inhibits viral DNA replication in herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1 (HSV-1), HSV-2, and varicella zoster virus (VZV)

What are the common side effects of famciclovir?

Flatulence, Headache, Nausea, Dysmenorrhea, Abdominal pain, Diarrhea

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