Side Effects of Famvir

Some of the most common side effects of Famvir include headaches, nausea, diarrhea, and painful menstrual cramps. In most cases, Famvir side effects are minor and don't require treatment. However, certain problems should be reported to your healthcare provider. Among these more serious side effects are hallucinations, yellowing of the skin or eyes, aggressiveness or agitation, and any signs of an allergic reaction.

 

An Introduction to Famvir Side Effects

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with Famvir® (famciclovir); however, not everyone who takes the medication will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with Famvir. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of Famvir side effects with you.)
 

Common Side Effects of Famvir

Famvir has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials. In these studies, the side effects that occur in a group of people taking the drug are documented and are then compared to side effects that occur in another group of people not taking the medicine. This way, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.
 
In these studies, some of the most common side effects of Famvir included:
 
  • Headaches -- in up to 22.7 percent of people
  • Nausea -- up to 12.5 percent
  • Diarrhea -- up to 7.7 percent
  • Painful menstrual cramps -- up to 7.6 percent
  • Vomiting -- up to 4.8 percent
  • Fatigue -- up to 4.8 percent
  • Gas -- up to 4.8 percent.
     
Some other common Famvir side effects, occurring in 1 percent to 4 percent of people, included:
 
  • Unusual sensations, such as numbness, burning, or tingling
  • Migraine headaches
  • Abdominal pain (or stomach pain).
     
(Side Effects of Famvir Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;