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 DISINTEGRATING TABLET

(fam-OH-tih-dine)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Pepcid RPD

Uses

This medication blocks secretion of acid from the stomach. It 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 form of famotidine is meant to be dissolved on top of the tongue then swallowed with saliva. Do not chew, crush or swallow it whole. Dry your hands before peeling back the foil to remove a tablet. Do not try to push the tablet through the foil. Immediately after removing the tablet from its blister pack, place the tablet on your tongue where it will dissolve in seconds. After it dissolves, swallow it with saliva. Drinking a liquid is not necessary. Take this as directed. Do not increase your dose, take this more often than prescribed or stop using this without first consulting your doctor. After dissolving and swallowing the tablet, antacids may be used if needed.

Side Effects

Headache, dizziness, constipation or diarrhea may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: rapid or pounding heartbeat, yellowing of the eyes or skin, 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, trouble breathing. 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, 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 medication, 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 over-the-counter and prescription medications you may use, especially of: ketoconazole and itraconazole. Cigarette smoking can affect this medication. Tell your doctor if you smoke and if you stop or start smoking while taking this medication. This medication is available in both prescription and over-the-counter formulations. Do not take both at the same time. 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 changes that you can benefit from. Laboratory tests may be done periodically while taking this medication.

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-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Do not store above 86 degrees F (30 degrees C).