Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

FAMOTIDINE - ORAL SOLID

(fam-OH-tih-dine)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Pepcid

Uses

This medication is used to treat and prevent ulcers, to treat gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD), and to treat conditions associated with excessive acid secretion.

How To Use

This medication may be taken with or without meals. Take this as directed. Do not increase your dose, take this more often than prescribed or stop using this without first consulting your doctor.

Side Effects

Headache, dizziness, constipation or diarrhea may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: a rapid or pounding heart rate, jaundice (yellowing of the eyes/skin, dark urine), diarrhea, mental confusion, depression, vision changes, joint or muscle pain, ringing in the ears. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, breathing trouble. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: heartburn combined with lightheadedness or sweating or dizziness, chest pain or shoulder/jaw pain especially with shortness of breath, pain spreading to arms or neck or shoulders, unexplained weight loss, liver or kidney problems, alcohol usage, other stomach problems (e.g., tumors), any allergies (including drug allergies). Elderly persons may be more sensitive to the effects of this medication. Use cautiously. Before using this drug, tell your doctor if you are pregnant. Famotidine is excreted into breast milk. Though there have been no reports (to date) of harm to nursing infants, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medications you may use, including: ketoconazole, itraconazole. This medication is available in both prescription and nonprescription formulations. Do not take both at the same time. Cigarette smoking can affect this medication. Tell your doctor if you smoke and if you stop or start smoking while taking this medication. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include difficulty breathing, fast heartbeat, tremors, vomiting, restlessness, weakness, fatigue, or dizziness.

Notes

For best results, this medication is often used along with lifestyle changes such as stress-reduction programs, exercise and dietary changes. Talk to your health care professional about lifestyle changes you can benefit from. Laboratory tests may be done periodically while taking this medication to monitor results and prevent side effects.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Storage

Do not store above 104 degrees F (40 degrees C).