Pepcid
Famotidine
Drug Class and Mechanism of Action of Pepcid
Pepcid is an H2 (histamine) blocker medicine. It acts by reducing the stomach acid secretion by blocking one of the chemicals (histamine) that stimulates the secretion of acid into the stomach.
Therapeutic Uses of Pepcid
Pepcid is used for treatment and prevention of peptic ulcer. It is also used for treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition where there is esophagitis (inflammation of esophagus) due to regurgitation of acid from stomach to esophagus. It can also be used in other medical conditions as your doctor decides.
Direction of use of Pepcid
Pepcid should be used as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions. Pepcid is takenby mouth with food or without food. Take Pepcid at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking cephalosporins like cephalexin; itraconazole, or ketoconazole (anti fungal).
If You Miss a Dose of Pepcid
If you miss a dose of Pepcid, take it as soon as remembered. If it is almost time for your next dose, you should skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. You should not take 2 doses together to catch-up for the missed dose.
How to Store Pepcid
Tablets and suspension of Pepcid should be stored at room temperature (15 to 30 C or 59 to 86 F). Injection of Pepcid should be stored between 2 to 8 C (36 to 46 F). Keep them out of reach of children and away from heat, moisture and direct light.
More Information About Pepcid
For best results, Pepcid should be used along with lifestyle modification such as stress reduction programs, exercise and dietary changes. Talk to your doctor or other health care professionals about lifestyle changes you can benefit from. Laboratory tests may be done periodically while taking this medication to monitor results and also to prevent side effects. This medication should not be shared with others.
Precautions to be Taken While Taking Pepcid
Some medical conditions may interact with Pepcid. You should inform your doctor or other health care provider if you have any medical conditions that may interact with Pepcid. The following medical conditions may interact with Pepcid:
- If you have allergy to any of the ingredients of Pepcid, any other medicines of any other substance.
- If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or if you are breast feeding.
- If you have any liver problem or kidney problem.
- If you are taking any prescription medicine or nonprescription or over the counter medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement.
Some medicines may also interact with Pepcid, but at present no medicine is known to interact with Pepcid.
Possible Adverse Effects of Pepcid
- Like any other medicine, Pepcid also has some side effects. Some of the side effects are minor and some are serious. Some people get some side effects (may be serious) and some have no side effect at all due to Pepcid. The common and minor side effects of Pepcid are nausea, dizziness, headache, diarrhea or constipation etc. You should consult your doctor if the common side effects become persistent or prolonged.
- If you get any serious side effects of Pepcid, you should get immediate medical attention. The serious side effects are severe allergic reactions manifested by skin rash, hives, itching, difficulty in breathing, tightness in the chest, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue; convulsions or seizures etc.
