Genital Herpes Information

[Famvir Herpes Information]

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Study Shows Famvir Safe And Effective For Suppression Of Recurrent 
Genital Herpes In HIV-Infected Individuals
     
LAS VEGAS, NV, October 8, 1996 -- Famciclovir (Famvir, SmithKline 
Beecham) is safe, well-tolerated and effective in significantly 
suppressing herpes simplex virus-2 (HSV-2) outbreaks among HIV-infected 
individuals, according to a recent study conducted at the University of 
Washington.  In the first phase of the study, approximately 80 percent of 
famciclovir recipients remained free from HSV recurrences compared to 
only 29 percent of placebo recipients.  The findings were reported by Dr. 
David Koelle of the University of Washington Division of Allergy and 
Infectious Diseases at the 101st annual convention and scientific seminar 
of the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) in Las Vegas.
     
        In a crossover analysis of patients successfully completing both 
arms of the study, famciclovir-treated patients experienced a 
significantly lower overall rate of HSV-2 shedding versus placebo (1.3 
vs. 9.7 percent of days, respectively).  The subclinical anogenital HSV-2 
shedding rate (percentage days with positive culture and no lesions 
present) was also significantly lower in the famciclovir group (1.2 
percent) than in the placebo group (6.3 percent).  Furthermore, the 
percentage of days that HSV-2 shedding occurred and herpes lesions or 
symptoms were present was also significantly reduced during famciclovir 
treatment.
     
        HIV-infected persons experience more frequent and prolonged 
episodes of anal and genital HSV-2 reactivation.  Famciclovir appears 
effective in reducing the frequency and severity of these HSV 
reactivations in HIV-infected persons.
     
        Famvir was cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to 
treat recurrent genital herpes in immunocompetent patients in December, 
1995 and is also currently indicated for the treatment of acute herpes 
zoster (shingles).  Famciclovir is being studied for the treatment of a 
number of other infections caused by the viruses belonging to the family 
of human herpesviruses in both immunocompetent and immunocompromised 
individuals.  Studies are also in progress with this agent in the 
treatment of chronic hepatitis B virus infection.
     
        The study was supported by a clinical grant from SmithKline 
Beecham Pharmaceuticals.
     
        For further information on Famvir, a full version of the Famvir 
press release is available FREE by e-mailing herpes at mcny.com.  In the 
subject area please write subscribe herpes your "e-mail address."  The 
information will automatically be sent to you.  To delete your name 
please write unsubscribe herpes "your e-mail address."  
     
     
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