Famotidine, sold under the brand name Pepcid among others, is a histamine H2 receptor antagonist medication that decreases stomach acid production.It is used to treat peptic ulcer disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.It is taken by mouth or by injection into a vein.It begins working within an hour.

Uses

Famotidine is used to treat and prevent ulcers in the stomach and intestines. It also treats conditions in which the stomach produces too much acid, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.

Famotidine also treats gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and other conditions in which acid backs up from the stomach into the esophagus, causing heartburn.

Mechanism of action

Activation of H2 receptors located on parietal cells stimulates proton pumps to secrete acid into the stomach lumen. Famotidine, an H2 antagonist, blocks the action of histamine on the parietal cells, ultimately reducing acid secretion into the stomach.

How to take famotidine

Use famotidine exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Famotidine oral is taken by mouth.

Famotidine injection is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection if you are unable to take the medicine by mouth.

You may take famotidine oral with or without food.

Shake the bottle of Pepcid suspension (liquid) vigorously for 5 to 10 seconds prior to each use. Measure the liquid medicine carefully. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).

Most ulcers heal within 4 weeks of treatment, but it may take up to 8 weeks of using this medicine before your ulcer heals. Keep using the medication as directed.

Call your doctor if the condition you are treating with this medicine does not improve, or if it gets worse while using this medicine.

Side effects

The most common side effects associated with famotidine use include headache, dizziness, and constipation or diarrhea.

Famotidine may contribute to QT prolongation,particularly when used with other QT-elongating drugs, or in people with poor kidney function.