Famotidine
Famotidine is the generic name for this medication (fam OH ti deen)
Brand names include Pepcid and Zantac 360.
H2 antagonists are a class of drugs.
What is famotidine, and how does it work?
Famotidine is a histamine-2 blocker that works by reducing the amount of acid produced by the stomach. It is used to treat a variety of conditions. Fabotine is a medication that is used to treat and prevent stomach and intestinal ulcers. Also known as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, this medication is used to treat disorders in which the stomach generates excessive acid. Other diseases in which acid from the stomach backs up into the oesophagus, producing heartburn, are treated with famotidine, including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and other conditions. This medication, sold under the brand name Zantac 360, does not include ranitidine, which is a medication that has been taken off the market in the United States.
Warnings
Notify your doctor if you have kidney or liver illness, a history of Long QT syndrome, stomach cancer or other issues, asthma, COPD, or other breathing difficulties prior to using famotidine. Famotidine is a prescription medication. A comprehensive treatment programme that includes dietary and lifestyle modifications may incorporate famotidine as part of the overall treatment plan. Follow the directions provided by your doctor to the letter. Heartburn is often mistaken for the initial signs of a heart attack in its early stages. If you are experiencing chest discomfort or a heavy sensation, pain that has extended to your jaw, arm, or shoulder, nausea, sweating, anxiety, light-headedness, or a general unwell feeling, get emergency medical care right away.
Prior to using this medication, you should consult your doctor.
In the event that you are allergic to famotidine or related medications such as ranitidine (Zantac), cimetidine (Tagamet), or nizatidine, you should avoid using this medication until your allergy has been resolved (Axid).
In order to ensure that this medication is safe for you, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have ever had any of the following conditions:
- Kidney disease is a medical condition in which the kidneys fail to function properly.
- cirrhosis of the liver;
- stomach cancer, for example;
- QT prolongation syndrome (in you or a family member).
if you are pregnant or nursing, talk to your doctor before using famotidine or taking any other medications.
What is the best way to take famotidine?
Follow the directions on the label, or take famotidine as recommended by your doctor, precisely as instructed. Famotidine oral is a medication that is taken by mouth. Famotidine injection is administered via a vein as an infusion. If you are unable to take the medication by mouth, a healthcare professional will provide this injection. If you are using famotidine oral, you may take it with or without meals. Shake the bottle of Pepcid suspension (liquid) vigorously for 5 to 10 seconds before each usage to ensure that all of the ingredients are evenly distributed. Carefully measure out the liquid medication. Make use of the dosage syringe that was supplied, or a medication dose-measuring equipment if one is available (not a kitchen spoon). It is common for ulcers to heal after 4 weeks of therapy, however it is possible for your ulcer to heal after up to 8 weeks of taking this medication. Continue to take the medicine as prescribed. If the condition you are treating with this medication does not improve, or if the condition worsens while you are taking this medication, contact your doctor. A comprehensive treatment programme that includes dietary and lifestyle modifications may incorporate famotidine as part of the overall treatment plan. Follow all of your doctor’s or dietitian’s directions to the letter. Moisture, heat, and light should all be avoided while storing this product. Allowing the liquid medication to freeze is not recommended. Any unused liquid that has been sitting around for more than 30 days should be thrown away.
What happens if I don’t take my medication on time?
Take the medication as soon as you are able, but if it is nearly time for your next dosage, ignore the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take more than one dosage at a time.
What happens if I take too much of something?
Seek immediate medical care or dial 1-800-222-1222 to reach the Poison Help hotline for assistance.
What to stay away from?
Avoid consuming alcoholic beverages. It has the potential to raise the risk of gastrointestinal injury.
Other stomach acid reducers should be avoided unless specifically instructed to do so by your doctor. You may, however, take an antacid (such as Maalox, Mylanta, Gaviscon, Milk of Magnesia, Rolaids, or Tums) together with famotidine if you have a stomach upset.
Consequences of using famotidine
If you have any of the following symptoms of an allergic response to famotidine: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat, get immediate medical attention.
If you experience any of the following symptoms, stop taking this medication and contact your doctor right away:
- Confusion, hallucinations, anxiety, and a general lack of energy;
- a convulsion;
- hammering heartbeats, abrupt dizziness (as if you were about to pass out); or
- Muscle discomfort, soreness, or weakness that is unexplained, particularly if you are also experiencing fever, unusual fatigue, or dark coloured urine.
Some adverse effects may be more common in older individuals and those who have severe renal disease, according to some research.
The following are examples of common famotidine adverse effects:
- headache;
- a feeling of dizziness; or
- Constipation or diarrhoea are common symptoms.
The following is not a comprehensive list of possible side effects, and more may occur. For medical advice regarding side effects, consult with your doctor. You may report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at 1-800-FDA-1088.
More information is available upon request.
Never share your medications with others, and only take famotidine for the purpose for which it was given. Keep this and all other medications out of the reach of children.
Always check with your healthcare practitioner to verify that the information provided on this page is accurate and applicable to your specific situation.
