FAMOTIDINE – ORAL SOLID (fam-OH-tih-dine)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Pepcid
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 TAKE THIS MEDICATION: This medication may be taken with or without meals. Take this 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: a 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 an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, breathing trouble. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver disease, kidney disease, alcohol usage, allergies (especially drug allergies). 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.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medications you may use, including: ketoconazole, itraconazole. This medication is available in both prescription and nonprescription formulations. Do not take both at the same time. Cigarette smoking can affect this medication. Tell your doctor if you smoke and if you stop or start smoking while taking this medication. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include difficulty breathing, fast heartbeat, tremors, vomiting, restlessness, weakness, fatigue, or dizziness.
NOTES: For best results, this medication is often used along with lifestyle changes such as stress-reduction programs, exercise and dietary changes. Talk to your health care professional about lifestyle changes you can benefit from. Laboratory tests may be done periodically while taking this medication to monitor results and prevent side effects.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Do not store above 104 degrees F (40 degrees C).
