Genital herpes is a condition, which cannot be cured, but can be treated. It is caused by a virus, which spreads via sexual contact with an affected person. Recent studies show that this virus is spreading very fast and more than one third people will get affected by it. Various FDA approved medications are available on the market, which aid in treatment of herpes.

Famvir

Famvir is an oral antiviral medication, which slows down the growth and reduces the severity of herpes virus. It helps you reduce the symptoms of infections caused by herpes virus. This drug is the first and only one till date that is helpful in treating recurrent genital herpes. You should never take this medication without a prescription. If you have been prescribed Famvir tablets, ensure that you complete the whole course as prescribed by the doctor. This medication works best if taken within the first few hours of the outbreak. Even after you are prescribed this drug, you should stay away from other people if you are infected with herpes, as they can get infected as well. You should wash your hands frequently so that the virus does not affect anyone else.

Herpes virus replicates very aggressively in the first few hours of the outbreak. Studies show that affected individuals who were given Famvir tablets during this time showed reduced symptoms of herpes and had accelerated recovery. It reduces the time taken by an individual to recover from herpes. Although side effects are rare, you may experience headache, sleepiness, confusion, itching, burning, vomiting and nausea after taking Famvir. If these side effects start bothering you, stop using it and contact your doctor at the earliest. Tell your doctor if you are suffering from kidney disease or any kind of allergy. Also tell your doctor if you are taking any other over the counter drug. Famvir might not interact well with other drugs.

Usage

You should take it orally exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Famvir is most effective if it is taken within the first few hours of the outbreak in equal doses throughout the day. This will ensure that your body has sufficient amount of this medication for fast recovery. Do not miss a dose, but in case you miss it, start taking it from the next dose. Do not overdose to catch up with the cycle. Never take it more than prescribed. In case you have overdosed it, call the emergency room immediately. Do not share this medication with others. You should store it at room temperature and keep it away from heat and light.

Avoid this drug if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. Talk to your doctor if you are suffering from any kind of kidney disease, galactose intolerance or glucose malabsorption. Intake of Famvir tablets does not harm the unborn child, but it is advisable that pregnant women avoid it. A woman who is breastfeeding should also avoid it as this drug may pass into breast milk.