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Famotidine

 

Famotidine (generic Pepcid) Review

brand names: Pepcid Oral, Pepcid, Pepcid AC
generic name: Famotidine

How does it work?

This medicine contains the active ingredient famotidine, which is a type of medicine called an H2-receptor antagonist. It works by blocking histamine (H2) receptors that are present on cells in the stomach lining.

Normally a substance called histamine binds to these receptors. Histamine is produced throughout the body and has many effects. When histamine binds to H2 receptors on cells in the stomach lining it causes them to produce acid.

Famotidine works by binding to the H2 receptors on the stomach cells, thereby replacing some of the histamine. As a result, the amount of stomach acid produced by these cells is decreased.

Stomach acid is present as a normal part of the digestive process. However, if large amounts of stomach acid are produced, the excess acid may flow back into the food pipe (oesophagus) causing pain and a burning sensation known as heartburn or gastro-oesophageal reflux. If severe, it can cause ulceration or erosions in the oesophagus.

In addition, the linings of the stomach and duodenum (an area of the intestine directly after the stomach) have a protective layer that normally resists acid attack. If this layer is damaged, or large amounts of stomach acid are produced, a peptic ulcer can develop.

Famotidine decreases the amount of acid in the stomach and duodenum. As a result, it helps relieve gastro-oesophageal reflux, and aids the healing of ulcers. It is also used in various conditions where there is excess acid production in the stomach, eg Zollinger–Ellison syndrome.

How to use Famotidine (Pepcid) :

Use Famotidine (Pepcid) as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

• If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
• Ask your doctor before taking Famotidine with other acid reducers (antacids).
• Take Famotidine at least 2 hours before or after taking cephalosporins (eg, itraconazole, cephalexin), or ketoconazole.
• Take Famotidine (Pepcid) with a glass of water.
• Famotidine (Pepcid) may be taken with or without food.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Famotidine (Pepcid) .

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Pepcid during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Pepcid may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If this medication is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment with this medication is finished.

What should I watch for while taking Famotidine (Pepcid)?

Tell your prescriber or health care professional if your condition does not improve or gets worse. Finish the full course of tablets prescribed, even if you feel better.

Do not self-medicate with aspirin, ibuprofen or other antiinflammatory medicines; these can aggravate your condition.

Do not smoke cigarettes or drink alcohol; these increase irritation in your stomach and can lengthen the time it will take for ulcers to heal. Cigarettes and alcohol can also worsen acid reflux or heartburn.

If you need to take an antacid, you should take it at least 1 hour before or 1 hour after Famotidine. Famotidine (Pepcid) will not be as effective if taken at the same time as an antacid.

If you get black, tarry stools or vomit up what looks like coffee grounds, call your prescriber or health care professional at once. You may have a bleeding ulcer.

If you have phenylketonuria you should not use Pepcid® AC chewable tablets as they contain 1.4 mg of phenylalanine per tablet.

What is it used for?

• Preventing relapse of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease
  
  
• Preventing relapse of duodenal ulcers
  
  
• Peptic ulcers
  
  
• Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease
  
  
• Excessive secretion of stomach acid due to a tumour or enlargement of the pancreas (Zollinger-Ellison syndrome)
  
  

What is the most important information I should know about Famotidine (Pepcid)?

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 Famotidine. Antacids may decrease the effectiveness of Famotidine (Pepcid).