A Comparative Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Acyclovir and Famciclovir in the Management of Herpes Zoster

• DOI: 10.7860/jcdr/2013/7884.3670
• Publication Date: 2013-12-28T11:24:34Z
• Authors: Gopal M.G.
• Keywords: Famciclovir; Penciclovir; Aciclovir

Over the years, acyclovir has been oral antiviral agent approved for treatment of patients with acute herpes zoster,Its effectiveness in lessening signs and symptoms zoster established but effects on post herpetic neuralgia are less clear cut. Famciclovir is a new member guanine nucleoside family drugs. It well absorbed form penciclovir longer half life. This was open comparative randomized study carried out to compare safety efficacy famciclovir administered at 250mg thrice daily 800mg five times uncomplicated immunocompetent individuals aged above 40 years.To assess clinical profile Herpes zoster, describe preventing neuralgia.A total 100 newly were 1:1 ratio into groups after inclusion criteria satisfied.Treatment initiated within 72 hrs onset continued 7 days evaluated end each week up six weeks period full crusting lesions, complete healing lesion loss pain.It observed that as effective no significant difference time taken crusting, lesions or pain. tolerated better comparable acyclovir. Constipation, headache, nausea vomiting most commonly reported adverse effects, constipation considered have possible relationship treatment.In conclusion, three during infection acyclovir, daily.In addition it offers benefit by providing tolerated, cost effective, convenient dosage regime accelerated rate resolution reduced duration PHN.