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 Drug Name
Pepcid (Famotidine)
Drug Uses
Pepcid is used to treat and prevent ulcers in the stomach and intestines. Pepcid is also used to treat conditions in which the stomach produces too much acid and conditions in which acid comes up into the esophagus and causes heartburn, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
How Taken
Take Pepcid exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you. Take each oral dose with a full glass of water.
Chew the chewable tablets thoroughly before swallowing.
Administration with liquid is not necessary for the Pepcid RPD orally disintegrating tablets. Just prior to taking a dose, peel open the blister pack with dry hands and place the tablet on the tongue, where it will dissolve and be swallowed with the saliva.
Shake the Pepcid suspension vigorously for 5 to 10 seconds before measuring a dose. To ensure that you get the correct dose, use a dose-measuring cup or spoon, not a regular table spoon to measure a dose of the suspension. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.
Over-the-counter famotidine is usually taken 15 minutes before consuming heartburn-inducing foods or beverages.
Do not stop taking this medication without first talking to your doctor. It may take up to 8 weeks for an ulcer to heal. Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Drug Class and Mechanism
Famotidine is in a class of drugs called histamine receptor antagonists. Pepcid works by decreasing the amount of acid the stomach produces.
Missed Dose
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Storage
Store at room temperature in a dry place. Protect the suspension from freezing, and discard any unused portion after 30 days.
Warnings/Precautions
Do not stop taking this medication without first talking to your doctor. It may take up to 8 weeks for an ulcer to heal. Do not take antacids within 1 hour of taking this medication. Antacids may decrease the effectiveness of Pepcid. Do not take antacids within 1 hour of taking Pepcid. Antacids may decrease the effectiveness of this medication.
Pepcid may affect the actions of other medications by changing the acidity of the stomach. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines during treatment, including herbal products.
Possible Side Effects
If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Pepcid and contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical treatment.
- an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives)
- easy or unusual bruising or bleeding
- bleeding gums
- irregular heartbeat
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- a rash
Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Pepcid and talk to your doctor if you experience
- dizziness
- headache
- diarrhea, nausea, or constipation
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
More Information
Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
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