Skip to content
Sexual Health STDs Herpes Famvir
Sexual Health ... Famvir

Famvir (famciclovir) prescription available online

If you are suffering from a herpes infection, Famvir (famciclovir) can help. Get a new prescription or refill of Famvir from a board-certified primary care doctor online.*
Reduce symptoms of herpes Available by tablet Take control of your sexual health
Book an appointment
Top Online Doctors | Step 2
*Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and how you can save up to 80% with our prescription discount card. PlushCare doctors cannot diagnose or treat all cases of herpes simplex or herpes zoster. If that is the case, they will guide you towards in-person and specialist care with resources and referrals.
circles-dark.18c7e306

About Famvir (famciclovir)

Famvir (famciclovir) is considered an antiviral drug, which slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus. Famvir will not cure herpes, but it can reduce the symptoms of herpes infections.

Some conditions that Famvir is known to treat include genital herpes, cold sores, and shingles caused by the herpes zoster virus. Famvir is available only by prescription. It is available in a generic formulation as famciclovir.

Famvir may be prescribed as a tablet. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage prescribed.

If you're prescribed Famvir, be sure to complete the full course of the antiviral unless your doctor specifically tells you to stop. If you don’t complete your prescription, the antiviral may not fully treat your herpes infection.

Famvir uses

There are several FDA-approved uses for Famvir, but it may also be used off-label to treat other conditions. Your online medical professional may prescribe it for any of the following common reasons. It’s also possible that your healthcare provider may prescribe it for other reasons not listed here. If you have questions about why a medication is prescribed, ask your online doctor.

Herpes infections

Famvir is FDA-approved to treat infections caused by the herpes virus, including recurrent genital herpes, oral herpes (cold sores), and herpes zoster (shingles). It's also used to treat patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) who develop herpes outbreaks around the mouth, genitals, or anal area.

Famvir side effects

The side effects associated with taking Famvir are typically mild. Most Famvir side effects are associated with gastrointestinal discomfort. Famvir has some common side effects. They may include:

  • Nausea

  • Headache

  • Diarrhea


Other side effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:

  • Severe dizziness

  • Unusual bruising or bleeding

  • Signs of kidney problems (little to no urination, swelling, shortness of breath)


You should call your doctor if you notice any of these side effects, or if you develop any other new or serious symptoms. It is not known whether Famvir is safe and effective in children under the age of 18.

circles-dark.18c7e306

How to take Famvir

Your pharmacist will provide you with instructions on how to take your Famvir prescription. Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your doctor or pharmacy if you have any questions.

Famvir can come in different forms and doses, so be sure to follow the specific instructions on your prescription. For adults with herpes simplex infections, the usual starting dose is one 250 mg tablet taken three times daily. HIV-infected patients typically take one 500 mg tablet twice daily for recurrent genital herpes.

For adults with shingles caused by the herpes zoster virus, the usual dose is one 500 mg tablet orally every 8 hours for 7 days. Famvir is most effective when taken within 48 hours of developing a skin rash.

What to avoid while taking Famvir

Famvir has eight drug interactions. Don’t change what you are taking without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications or supplements, as well as nonprescription drugs. 

Possible drug interactions with Famvir include:

  • Alimta (pemetrexed)

  • Baraclude (entecavir)

  • Digitoxin

  • Leustatin (cladribine)

  • Imlygic (talimogene laherparepvec)

Talk to your doctor before drinking alcohol on Famvir. Regular alcohol consumption may cause liver damage, especially if you have hepatitis.

Medication alternatives to Famvir

If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment altogether, they may suggest another antiviral drug or herpes medication in another drug class. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives based on your health issue:

Herpes infections

Zovirax (acyclovir) Valtrex

Famvir prescription FAQs

How much does Famvir cost?

Depending on your pharmacy, brand name Famvir (125 mg) costs around $349 for 30 tablets without insurance. Fortunately, generic brands, such as famciclovir, are much more affordable. Price varies with insurance coverage but is generally quite low. Our prescription discount card helps members save up to 80% on prescriptions.

How can I refill my Famvir prescription?

Famvir is only available by prescription, so you will need to see a board-certified doctor to get a refill on your prescription. To get started, book a virtual appointment with one of our top rated board-certified doctors. After a qualifying evaluation, your prescription will be sent to your local pharmacy for pickup.

Who should not take Famvir?

To make sure Famvir is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

  • Liver disease

  • Kidney disease

  • A weakened immune system

  • Galactose intolerance

  • Severe lactase deficiency

  • Glucose-galactose malabsorption

  • Allergic reaction to famciclovir or Denavir (penciclovir cream)

Tell your doctor if you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant. If you have genital herpes, it's important to prevent lesions during pregnancy to avoid spreading herpes to your baby.

How long should I take Famvir?

Take Famvir as directed by your doctor. To clear up your infection, you should continue taking Famvir, even if your symptoms improve. To prevent future episodes of recurrent genital herpes, continue taking tablets daily, even if you don't have any symptoms.

How often can you take Famvir for cold sores?

Famvir is typically prescribed for seven days to treat cold sores. Take Famvir for the length of treatment prescribed by your doctor.

Can you take too much Famvir?

Yes, it's possible to take too much Famvir. Overdose symptoms may include severe headache, nausea, and diarrhea.

What happens if I miss a dose of Famvir?

If you miss a dose of Famvir, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it’s almost time for your next dose. Avoid taking two doses to make up for a missed dose.

What happens if I take too much Famvir?

If you've taken too much Famvir, seek emergency medical help, or contact your local poison control center or provincial poison control center (for Canada residents).

3 simple steps to request your Famvir prescription today

How It Works Step 1
Step 1

Book a Famvir prescription request appointment.

Book a same day appointment from anywhere.
How It Works Step 2
Step 2

Talk to your medical provider regarding your Famvir prescription.

Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
How It Works Step 3
Step 3

Pick up your Famvir prescription, if provided.

We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.

How pricing works

To get a new or refill on your Famvir prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.

30 days of free membership

  • Same-day appointments 7 days a week
  • Unlimited messages with your Care Team
  • Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
  • Exclusive discounts on lab tests
  • Free memberships for your family
  • Cancel anytime

Paying with insurance

Membership

$19.99

First month free

+

Visits

Copay

Visit price with insurance

Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!

We accept these insurance plans and many more:


humanaaetnacigna logo background

 

Paying without insurance

Membership

$19.99

First month free

+

Visits

$129

Visit price without insurance

Initial visits are $129.
Book an appointment
*If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund. Please note that any medication or lab work costs are not included. Please refer to our refund policy for additional information.

Famvir prescription resources

Sources:

PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.



PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.