Comparative Study of Oral Acyclovir and Oral Famciclovir in the treatment of Herpes Zoster

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Original Article

Author Details : Raghavendra KR, Esther Nimisha

Volume : 2, Issue : 1, Year : 2016

Article Page : 32-35

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Abstract

Background: Herpes zoster is a common viral infection, mostly affect elderly and immune compromised patients. Specific treatment includes antivirals. Most commonly used drug is acyclovir.
Material and Methods: One hundred patients were prescribed to receive oral Acyclovir or oral Famciclour on alternate basis after diagnosis of Herpes zoster. Ac: Oral Acyclovir 800 mg 5 times a day for 7 days. Fa: Oral Famciclovir 500 mg 3 times a day for 7 days. Patients in each group were evaluated on day 5 after initiation of therapy and every week thereafter for a period of six weeks.
Results: A total of one hundred patients of herpes zoster were studied with fifty patients in each group of acyclovir and famciclovir. Majority of patients (63%) were in the 3^rd, 4^th and 5^th decade. The mean age was 40 years. There were 52 male and 48 female patients. Majority of patients (56%) had the disease in the months of May, June, August and September. Thoracic segment (56%) was the predominant site of involvement the median time taken for full crusting of lesions in both the groups was 10 days. The median time taken for complete healing of lesions in famciclovir group was 21 days and in acyclovir group 28 days. The median time taken for subsidence of pain in famciclovir group was 21 days and in the acyclovir group it was 28 days. The most common complication was dyspigmentation in 16% cases. 5% of patients had PHN, 3 in acyclovir group and 2 belonged to famciclovir group.
Conclusion: We can conclude that famciclovir can be a better option in the treatment of herpes zoster in view of all the above mentioned facts and it has got a convenient dosage schedule as well.

Key Words: Herpes Zoster, Famcyclovir, Acyclovir, Old age, Varicella zoster Virus

How to cite : Raghavendra Kr, Nimisha E, Comparative Study of Oral Acyclovir and Oral Famciclovir in the treatment of Herpes Zoster. IP Indian J Clin Exp Dermatol 2016;2(1):32-35

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