CONTRIBUTOR(S): Vetstream Ltd, Gigi Davidson, Fear Free,
Medication: Famciclovir
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Your dog has been prescribed famciclovir for the treatment of a viral condition.
ℹ️Key points: • An oral anti-viral medication. • Not licensed for use in dogs. Your veterinarian will explain off-license use of this medication to you.
ℹ️This information sheet is designed to help answer commonly asked questions and help you give the medication safely and effectively to your pet. It does not contain all available information for this medication. If you have other questions or need more information, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist. ⚠️Always follow the dosing instructions provided by your veterinarian.Name, Brand names, Class of medication and Storage
Name
- Famciclovir (fam-sih-clo-veer).
Class of medication
- Anti-viral.
Storage
- Store at room temperature.
Why has my dog been prescribed famciclovir?
Your veterinarian has prescribed famciclovir to treat a viral infection.
How is the medication given?
Famciclovir is administered by mouth and is best given on an empty stomach.
Are there any side-effects or drug interactions?
Like all medications, famciclovir can have side-effects. As this is an unlicensed product, the information available is limited, but reported side-effects in dogs include increased thirst, loss of appetite, vomiting and diarrhea. It should be used cautiously in dogs with kidney disease. In humans, long term treatment has been reported to cause kidney failure. Famciclovir should not be used in pregnant or nursing bitches. It is important to monitor your dog closely for any signs of side-effects after receiving famciclovir, and to contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice any concerning symptoms. Your veterinarian may also recommend regular blood tests to monitor your dog's response to the medication and to detect any potential side-effects early on. Famciclovir does not have any significant drug interactions, but you should tell your veterinary surgeon about any medications or supplements that your dog receives at home.
How long will my dog need to receive this medication?
Your veterinarian will advise you as to the required frequency of administration, but long courses of treatment may be necessary.
How should I dispose of this medication if I don’t use it all?
Dispose of any unused famciclovir safely - do not flush down the toilet or sink. Ask your veterinary team if they take back medication for disposal. Do not save famciclovir for future use or give to other pets.
What if I miss a dose or give an extra dose?
If you miss a dose, give the dose as soon as possible but do not give a double dose. Make sure the dose given does not exceed the total recommended dose in any 24-hour period.
My dog is unwell, should I still give the drug?
If your pet is unwell, contact your veterinarian for advice.
What should I do if this medication is accidentally given to another pet or taken by a human?
Famciclovir should only be given to the dog that it has been prescribed for. If accidentally given to other pets, contact your veterinarian for advice. If accidentally consumed by a human, speak to your primary care physician or poison control center.
Will my dog need to be monitored while on famciclovir?
Your veterinarian will regularly monitor your dog and perform blood tests whilst they are taking this medication.
Further information
If you have any concerns, further information on famciclovir can be found on the package insert.Europe & UK
- There are no veterinary drugs containing famciclovir licensed for use in dogs in the UK. Your veterinarian may prescribe a human drug containing famciclovir and will be able to explain the use of off-license medications to you.
US
- There are no veterinary drugs containing famciclovir licensed for use in dogs in the US. Your veterinarian may prescribe a human drug containing famciclovir and will be able to explain the use of off-license medications to you.