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/CALCIUM CARBONATE/MAGNESIUM HYDROXIDE - CHEWABLE

(fam-OH-tih-dine/KAL-see-um KAR-buh-nate/mag-NEE-zee-um)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Pepcid Complete

Uses

This combination medication is used to treat heartburn and acid indigestion. It combines a drug that blocks acid release in the stomach (famotidine) along with two antacids (calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide).

How To Use

Chew completely and swallow one tablet of this medication as needed during the symptoms of heartburn or indigestion, or take as directed by your doctor. Do not swallow the tablets whole. Do not take more than 2 tablets within 24 hours. If your symptoms continue (e.g., stomach pain, heartburn) or you need to take this medicine for more than 14 days in a row, stop taking it and consult your doctor promptly.

Side Effects

Diarrhea, headache, constipation, or stomach cramps may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: vomiting, black stools, yellowing eyes or skin, dark urine. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, trouble breathing. If you notice any 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, trouble swallowing, persistent stomach pain, black stools, tobacco or alcohol use, other stomach problems (e.g., tumors), any allergies (including drug allergies). Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication. This drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially: azole antifungals (e.g., itraconazole, ketoconazole), tetracycline antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline, minocycline), quinolone antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin), thyroid medicine (e.g., levothyroxine), calcium channel blockers (e.g., diltiazem, verapamil), quinidine, delavirdine, digoxin, sodium polystyrene sulfonate. Famotidine is available in both nonprescription and prescription formulations. Do not take both types at the same time. Consult your pharmacist. 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: trouble breathing, unusually fast heartbeat, tremors, vomiting, restlessness, weakness, fatigue, or dizziness.

Notes

Laboratory and/or medical tests may be performed to monitor your progress.

Missed Dose

Not applicable.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 77 and 86 degrees F (25 and 30 degrees C) away from light and moisture.