Medications and Drugs

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GENERIC NAME: FAMOTIDINE - INJECTION (fam-OH-tih-dine)

BRAND NAME(S): Pepcid

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication 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 medication is injected into a vein(IV). Use as directed. Do not increase your dose, use this more often than prescribed or stop using this without first consulting your doctor.

SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, dizziness, constipation, diarrhea, or irritation at the injection site may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: a rapid or pounding heart rate, jaundice (yellowing of eyes/skin, dark urine), diarrhea, mental confusion, depression, vision changes, joint or muscle pain, ringing in the ears. In the unlikely event you have a serious allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, breathing trouble. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially: liver disease, kidney disease, alcohol use, any allergies. Cigarette smoking can affect this medication. Tell your doctor if you smoke and if you stop or start smoking while taking this medication. A preservative (benzyl alcohol) which may be found in this product or in the liquid used to mix this product (diluent) can infrequently cause serious problems (sometimes death), if given in large amounts (more than 100 mg/kg daily) to an infant during the first months of life (neonatal period). The risk is also greater with low birth weight infants. Symptoms include sudden gasping, low blood pressure, or a very slow heartbeat. Report these symptoms to the doctor immediately should they occur. If possible, a preservative-free product should be used when treating neonates. Elderly persons may be more sensitive to the effects of this medication. Use cautiously. Before using this drug, 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.