VIRACURE DS TABLETS (FAMCICLOVIR TABLETS USP) 500mg PACK OF 21 TABLETS
VIRACURE DS TABLETS 500mg (FAMCICLOVIR TABLETS USP) Each Pack Contains 21 Film Coated Tablets, A Product by Atco
Antiviral Action: Viracure tablets contain Famciclovir, which is converted into penciclovir in the body, effectively inhibiting various viruses, including herpes simplex, varicella-zoster, and more
Rapid Absorption: Famciclovir is rapidly absorbed, with peak plasma concentrations achieved within 45 minutes after oral administration
Wide Range of Use: Viracure is indicated for the treatment of conditions like recurrent herpes labialis, genital herpes, and herpes zoster (shingles), making it a versatile antiviral medication
Limited Side Effects: Common side effects of Viracure are generally mild and include headache and nausea, making it well-tolerated by most patients
Caution in Special Populations: While Viracure is considered safe for most patients, caution is advised in pregnant and nursing women, pediatric patients, and those with renal impairment
VIRACURE DS TABLETS (FAMCICLOVIR TABLETS USP) 500mg PACK OF 21 TABLETS: A Comprehensive Guide
Description:
Viracure tablets contain Famciclovir as the active
ingredient, a prodrug of the antiviral agent penciclovir. Famciclovir is
chemically known as 222amino9Hpurin9yl) ethyl1,3propanediol diacetate, with a
molecular formula C14H19NsO4 and a molecular weight of 321.3
Pharmacological Properties:
Mechanism of Action: Famciclovir is converted into
penciclovir in the body, which has antiviral activity against herpes simplex
virus 1 and 2, varicellazoster virus, EpsteinBarr virus, and cytomegalovirus.
Penciclovir inhibits viral DNA chain elongation by competitive inhibition with
deoxyguanosine triphosphate, halting virus replication
Pharmacokinetics:
- Absorption:
Famciclovir is rapidly and extensively absorbed, with bioavailability greater
than 90%. Peak plasma concentration of penciclovir occurs within 45 minutes
postdose - Distribution:
Penciclovir and its precursor are poorly bound to plasma proteins - Metabolism and
Elimination: Famciclovir is primarily eliminated as penciclovir in urine, with
no unchanged Famciclovir detected. The halflife of penciclovir is approximately
2 hours
Indications:
Herpes Labialis (Cold
Sores): Treatment of recurrent herpes labialis
Genital Herpes:
- Recurrent episodes: Treatment of recurrent
genital herpes - Suppressive therapy: Chronic suppressive
therapy of recurrent genital herpes
HIV Infected Adult Patients:
- Herpes Zoster
(Shingles): Treatment of herpes zoster - Limitation of Use: Viracure's efficacy and safety have not
been established for patients <18 years of age and for first episodes of
genital herpes in HIVinfected adults - Adverse Effects: Common adverse events include headache and
nausea, usually mild or moderate in nature - Special Populations:
- Pregnancy: Category
B; use during pregnancy should consider potential benefits vs. risks - Nursing Mothers: Use
with caution; excretion in human milk is unknown - Pediatric Population:
Safety and efficacy not established in children <18 years - Elderly Patients:
Dose modification not required unless renal function is impaired - Fertility: No impact
on male fertility observed in longterm treatment - Renal Impairment on
Hemodialysis: Administer Famciclovir immediately after hemodialysis - Hepatic Impairment:
No dose adjustment required in mild or moderate hepatic impairment - Warnings and Precautions:
Viracure contains
lactose
- Acute renal failure
risk; dosage reduction in renal impairment - Hypersensitivity
reactions - Avoid sexual
intercourse during outbreaks and practice safer sex during suppressive therapy
Contraindications:
Hypersensitivity to
the active substance or excipients
Drug Interactions:
Probenecid may
increase plasma concentrations of penciclovir; monitor for toxicity
Raloxifene may
inhibit the conversion of Famciclovir to penciclovir; monitor antiviral therapy
efficacy
This comprehensive guide provides detailed information about
Viracure DS tablets, their pharmacological properties, indications, special
populations, adverse effects, and more. Always consult a healthcare
professional for personalized guidance on medication use
Usage and Benefits of Viracure DS Tablets
- Effective Treatment for Herpes Infections: Viracure DS Tablets are effective in treating and managing recurrent herpes labialis, genital herpes, and herpes zoster (shingles).
- Chronic Suppressive Therapy: It is particularly beneficial for patients requiring chronic suppressive therapy to reduce the frequency of outbreaks.
- Rapid Action: The tablets are quickly absorbed, with peak plasma concentration achieved within 45 minutes, providing quick relief from viral symptoms.
- Convenient Dosage: Viracure DS Tablets are taken orally once or twice daily, making it easy to adhere to the treatment regimen.
- Well-Tolerated: Most patients tolerate the medication well, with mild to moderate side effects such as headaches or nausea.
How to Use Viracure DS Tablets
Follow these steps for the correct use of Viracure DS Tablets:
- For recurrent herpes labialis (cold sores), take a single 500mg tablet orally.
- For recurrent genital herpes, take one 500mg tablet every 12 hours, as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
- For herpes zoster (shingles), the recommended dosage is one tablet every 12 hours for the prescribed duration (usually 7-10 days).
- For suppressive therapy in HIV-infected adults, follow the doctor's instructions for ongoing treatment.
- Take the tablet with plenty of fluids, preferably with or without food.
Always follow your healthcare provider's advice and take the medication as prescribed.
1. What is Viracure DS Tablets used for?
Viracure DS Tablets, containing Famciclovir, are primarily used to treat recurrent herpes labialis (cold sores), genital herpes, herpes zoster (shingles), and for chronic suppressive therapy in HIV-infected adults. It also provides treatment for recurrent episodes of herpes genitalis.
2. How does Viracure DS Tablets work?
Viracure contains Famciclovir, which is converted into penciclovir in the body. Penciclovir works by inhibiting the elongation of viral DNA chains, effectively halting the replication of viruses such as herpes simplex virus, varicella-zoster virus, and cytomegalovirus.
3. What is the recommended dosage for Viracure DS Tablets?
The typical dosage for Viracure DS Tablets (500mg) is one tablet taken orally every 12 hours for recurrent genital herpes or herpes zoster. For recurrent herpes labialis, a single dose may suffice. Your doctor may adjust the dosage based on individual needs and the severity of the condition.
4. What are the common side effects of Viracure DS Tablets?
Common side effects of Viracure DS Tablets include mild to moderate headache and nausea. If you experience more severe reactions like skin rashes, abdominal pain, or dizziness, consult a healthcare provider immediately.
5. Can Viracure DS Tablets be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Viracure is categorized as pregnancy category B, which means it should be used only if the potential benefits outweigh the risks. Its safety during breastfeeding is unknown, so it should be used with caution in nursing mothers. Always consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.