Medications and Drugs

GENERIC NAME: FAMOTIDINE - ORAL SUSP (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: Shake well before using a dose. This medication may be taken with or without meals. Take as directed. Do not increase your dose, take this more often than prescribed or stop using this without first consulting your doctor.

SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, dizziness, constipation or diarrhea may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: rapid or pounding heart rate, jaundice (yellowing of the 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: 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, alcohol use, other stomach problems (e.g., tumors), any allergies (including drug allergies). Cigarette smoking can affect this medication. Tell your doctor if you smoke and if you stop or start smoking while taking this medication. 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.