Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on 6/6/2024

Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription

• Brand Name: Pepcid
  
• Generic Name: Famotidine
  
• Uses: Treatment for acid reflux, stomach ulcers, GERD
  
• Drug Class: H2 antagonist
  
• Availability: Prescription and over-the-counter
  
• Generic Status: Yes
  
• Controlled Substance: No
  
  

Famotidine is a medication used to treat various health conditions caused by excess stomach acid. This includes stomach ulcers and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.

Over-the-counter famotidine is used to prevent heartburn.

Prescription-strength famotidine is used to treat various conditions caused by an excess of stomach acid, such as:

1. Gastric Ulcers: Gastric ulcers are open sores that develop on the lining of the stomach.

2. Duodenal Ulcers: Duodenal ulcers are ulcers that develop in the first part of the small intestine.

3. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): GERD is a chronic condition in which stomach acid flows into the esophagus. This can lead to heartburn and injury to the esophagus.

4. Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome: Zollinger-Ellison is a rare condition characterized by tumors in the pancreas or small intestine, causing the stomach to make too much acid.

Over-the-counter famotidine is used to prevent heartburn. Heartburn is characterized by a burning sensation in the chest caused by stomach acid backing up into the esophagus. Many people experience heartburn as a result of eating certain foods (like spicy foods) or overeating.

Famotidine belongs to a class of medications known as H2 receptor antagonists. These drugs work by blocking histamine receptors in the stomach, which are responsible for stimulating acid production. By reducing the action of histamine, famotidine decreases the amount of stomach acid produced, which helps ulcers and damaged tissue heal.

Famotidine is available as an oral tablet, a chewable tablet, and oral suspension.

The dosage and frequency of use depend on the condition being treated, its severity, and how you respond to the medication.

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosage and schedule. Do not exceed the prescribed dose or frequency of use without consulting your provider.

Famotidine is used to treat conditions such as heartburn, ulcers, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The effects can be noticeable within a few hours, but full relief from symptoms may take several days.

Continue using famotidine as prescribed, even if you start feeling better. Regular use according to your prescription is crucial for the management of symptoms.

While famotidine is primarily used for treating acid reflux, ulcers, and GERD, healthcare providers may prescribe it off-label for other conditions.

Discuss any alternative uses of famotidine with your healthcare provider.

Famotidine is available in the following dosage forms:

• Oral tablets
  
• Chewable tablets
  
• Oral suspension
  
  

Famotidine is available over-the-counter and by prescription. Follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider or on the product label.