Common Use

Famotidine is a blocker of H2-histamine receptors. It suppresses basal production of gastric HCl as well as that stimulated by histamine, gastrin, and acetylcholine. Simultaneously with the decrease of HCl, the activity of pepsin also diminishes.

Famotidine strengthens protective mechanisms of the stomach mucous layer through stimulation of mucous production rich in glycoproteins. Other H2 blockers include:

• Cimetidine (Tagamet)
• Ranitidine (Zantac)
• Nizatidine (Axid)

Famotidine is used to treat:

• Stomach and duodenal ulcers
• Gastric juice hyperacidity
• Heartburn (associated with excessive acidity)
• Symptomatic gastrointestinal ulcers
• Stress-induced ulcers
• Erosive reflux esophagitis
• NSAID-induced gastropathy
• Zollinger-Ellison syndrome

Dosage and Directions

Recommended Famotidine dosage for duodenal ulcers:

• 40 mg once daily at bedtime OR
• 20 mg twice daily

Treatment typically takes about 4 weeks for ulcers. Take this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not exceed the recommended amount.

Administration instructions:

1. Chew the tablet before swallowing
2. For liquid form: shake for 10-20 seconds before measuring with a special spoon
3. Take liquid form before meals

Precautions

Do not take Famotidine if you are allergic to it or other H2 blockers. Consult your doctor if you have:

• Kidney or liver disease
• Stomach cancer or other stomach problems
• Asthma or COPD
• Other breathing problems
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding

You may need to interrupt treatment. Avoid alcohol consumption during therapy.

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to Famotidine
• Pregnancy
• Breastfeeding

Use with caution in patients with:

• Liver or kidney failure
• Cirrhosis
• Infancy

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Allergic reactions
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Insomnia
• Muscle pain
• Nausea or vomiting

Serious side effects requiring medical attention:

• Agitation or confusion
• Anemia
• Depression
• Easy bruising/bleeding
• Hallucinations
• Hair loss
• Irregular heartbeat
• Rash
• Vision changes
• Jaundice

Drug Interactions

Famotidine decreases metabolism of:

• Phenazone
• Aminophenazone
• Diazepam
• Hexobarbital
• Propanolol
• Lidocaine
• Phenytoin
• Aminophylline
• Theophylline
• Anticoagulants
• Tricyclic antidepressants

Other interactions:

• Increases absorption of amoxicillin and clavulanic acid
• Antacids and sucralfate slow Famotidine absorption
• Decreases absorption of itraconazole (Sporanox) and ketoconazole (Nizoral)

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose:

1. Take it as soon as you remember
2. If it's almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose
3. Never take double dose to compensate
4. Maintain regular dosing schedule

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain
• Fast heart rate
• Fainting

If overdose is suspected, seek immediate medical attention.

Storage

• Store tablets at room temperature (15-30°C or 59-86°F)
• Protect from light and moisture
• Keep away from children and pets
• Store injections at 2-8°C (36-46°F)

Disclaimer

This information provides general guidelines about Famotidine and does not cover all possible directions, drug interactions, or precautions. The content should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment.

Always consult your healthcare provider for specific instructions tailored to your condition. We cannot guarantee the absolute accuracy of this information and assume no liability for any consequences of its use or self-treatment decisions.