Table of contents:
Indications
Pepcid, also known as famotidine, is a medication used to treat and prevent ulcers in the stomach and intestines. It is also commonly prescribed to treat heartburn and other symptoms associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Famotidine belongs to a class of drugs known as histamine receptor blocker (H2 Blockers). It works by decreasing the amount of acid produced by the stomach. This helps reduce pain and discomfort brought on by acid reflux.
Famotidine comes in the form of a tablet to be taken by mouth either with or without food, according to the instructions of your doctor. The medication is usually prescribed to be taken once or twice a day, with the once daily dose typically taken right before bedtime. To prevent the onset of symptoms, famotidine should be taken 15 to 60 minutes prior to eating any food or drinks that may cause heartburn.
Uses and Dosage
You need to follow the instructions from your doctor or the package label, and to ask for clarification of any parts that may not be understood. It is essential to take famotidine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, and not to take more or less than directed, or take it more often or for a longer period than recommended.
The dosage and length of treatment are based on your medical condition and response to therapy. In children, dosage may also be based on body weight. For adults and pediatric patients weighing 40 kilograms or more with normal renal function, the recommended dosage of Pepcid 20 mg and 40 mg tablets is applicable.
| Indications | Recommended dosage | Recommended Durations |
| Active duodenal ulcer (DU) | 40 mg once daily; or 20 mg twice daily | Up to 8 weeks |
| Active gastric ulcer | 40 mg once daily | Up to 8 weeks |
| Symptomatic non-erosive GERD |
20 mg twice daily | Up to 6 weeks |
| Erosive esophagitis diagnosed by endoscopy |
20 mg twice daily; or 40 mg twice daily | Up to 12 weeks |
| Pathological hypersensitive conditions Starting dosage | 20 mg every 6 hours; adjust dosage to individual patient needs Maximum dosage 160 mg every 6 hours | As clinically indicated |
| Reduction of the risk of DU recurrence | 20 mg once daily 1 year | As clinically indicated |
Side effect
Serious Side Effect of Pepcid Includes:
- Acute tubulointerstitial nephritis
- Bone fracture
- Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea
- Cutaneous and systemic lupus erythematosus
- Cyanocobalamin (vitamin b-12) deficiency
- Fundic gland polyps
- Hypomagnesemia and mineral metabolism
- Severe cutaneous adverse reactions
Common Side Effects of Famotidine Includes:
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Headache
- Weakness or lack of energy
Form and strength
Famotidine the generic alternative of Pepcid is available in the following form and strength:
Famotidine: Tablet
- 20 mg
- 40 mg
Caution
- Prolonged QT interval reported (rare) in patients with renal impairment whose dose or dosing interval may not have been adjusted appropriately. Patients with renal impairment should be administered with caution, and the dosage may need to be adjusted in cases of moderate to severe renal impairment.
- There have been reports of confusion associated with the use of Pepcid (Famotidine), and this risk is greater in patients over 50 years of age and/or those with kidney or liver impairment.
- Prolonged use of Pepcid (Famotidine) for more than two years can lead to malabsorption of vitamin B12, which may cause vitamin B12 deficiency. The severity of the deficiency is related to the dose taken, and the risk is higher in females and those younger than 30 years.
- It has been found that Famotidine can enter breast milk and, as such, its use is not recommended for mothers who are lactating. This is due to the potential risk of adverse effects to the infant. It is important to talk to a healthcare provider or pharmacist before taking any medication while breastfeeding.
- Do not use Famotidine during pregnancy due to the potential risk of adverse effects to the developing fetus. It is important to talk to a healthcare provider or pharmacist before taking any medication while pregnant.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Famotidine (Pepcid)?
Famotidine, commonly known as Pepcid, is a medication used to treat and prevent ulcers in the stomach and intestines. It works by decreasing the amount of acid produced in the stomach.
When should I take Famotidine?
Famotidine should be taken as directed by your doctor. It is usually taken one to two times a day, with or without food, depending on the severity of your symptoms.
What are the side effects of Famotidine?
Does Famotidine interact with other medications?
Famotidine may interact with other medications, so it is important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any other medications.
Resources
It's important to purchase Pepcid from verified Canadian pharmacy.
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