Famotidine (nama lain Pepcid)

Common use

Pepcid is used to treat stomach and duodenal ulcer; hyperacidity of gastric juice; heartburn (associated with excessive acidity of gastric juice); symptomatic gastrointestinal ulcers and ones cased by stress; erosive reflux esophagitis; gastropathy caused by treatment with anti-inflammatory non-steroid medications; Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Pepcid is a blocker of H2-histamine receptors. It suppresses basal production of gastric HCl as well as one stimulated by histamine, gastrin and acetylcholine. Simultaneously with decrease of HCl activity of pepsin also diminishes. Pepcid strengthens protective mechanisms of stomach mucous layer due to stimulation of mucous production rich in glycoproteins.

Dosage and direction

Recommended dose of Pepcid for treatment of duodenal ulcers is 40 mg once daily at bedtime or 20 mg twice daily. Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your physician. Do not exceed the administered amount of the medication. Chew the tablet of Pepcid before to swallow it. Shake the liquid before to eat your meal after 10-20 seconds and measure it with a special spoon.

Precautions

You should not take Pepcid if you are allergic to it and other H2 blockers.
Notify your doctor if you suffer from kidney or liver disease, stomach cancer or other problems, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or other breathing problems, pregnant, plan to become pregnant or breastfeeding. You may need to interrupt of your treatment with Pepcid.
Avoid drinking alcohol beverages.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity, pregnancy, breastfeeding. Cautiousness should be experienced in patients with liver or kidney failure, cirrhosis.

Possible side effect

Side effects of treatment with Pepcid may include: signs of allergy constipation, diarrhea, fatigue, headache, insomnia, muscle pain, nausea, and vomiting.
Other major types of side effects are: agitation, anemia, confusion, depression, easy bruising or bleeding, hallucinations, hair loss, irregular heartbeat, rash, visual changes, and jaundice.

Drug interaction

Pepcid can make it harder for your body to absorb other medicines you take by mouth. Tell your doctor if you are taking: cefditoren; dasatinib; delavirdine; fosamprenavir; or tizanidine (if you are taking famotidine liquid).

Missed dose

Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.

Overdose

If overdose of Pepcid was taken the following symptoms occur: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, fast heart rate, or fainting. If you suppose that took too much of the drug inform your doctor about it as you may need immediate medical help.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 15-30 C (59-86 F) away from light and moisture, kids and pets.