Efficacy of Oral Famciclovir Versus Aciclovir Treatment in Patients With Herpes Zoster

A Prospective, Randomized, Multicenter Study of the Efficacy and Safety of Famciclovir 500 mg Comparing To Aciclovir 400mg in Patients With Herpes Zoster

Herpes Zoster is an infection that affects part of the nervous system caused by Varicella Zoster Virus. Herpes Zoster manifests as vesicular eruption in the dermatome, often associated with significant pain.

There are effective oral prescription antiviral medicines available to reduce the discomfort of symptoms as famciclovir and aciclovir.

This is a phase III, multicenter, randomized, parallel-group study to compare the efficacy and safety of treatment with Famciclovir (500 mg) comparing to Aciclovir (400 mg) in patients with Herpes Zoster.

Study Design

• single blind study, prospective, parallel group, intent to treat trial
• Experiment duration: 7 days
• 2 visits (days 0, and 7)
• Reduction of symptoms
• Adverse events evaluation

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients must be able to understand the study procedures, agree to participate and give written consent.
• Patients with clinical diagnosis of Herpes Zoster;
• Score higher than 4 for at least for 2 symptoms of Herpes Zoster;
• Negative pregnant urine test

Exclusion Criteria:

• Pregnancy or risk of pregnancy.
• Lactation
• Any pathology or past medical condition that can interfere with this protocol.
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug , hormonal anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive drugs (in the last 30 days and during the study);
• Patients with immunodeficiency and/or immunosuppressive disease;
• Hypersensitivity to components of the formula;
• Other conditions deemed reasonable by the medical investigator as to the disqualification of the individual from study participation.