How does famotidine work to relieve heartburn. What are the recommended dosages for over-the-counter famotidine. What precautions should be taken when using famotidine for acid reflux.

Understanding Famotidine: An Effective H2 Blocker for Heartburn

Famotidine is a widely used medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as H2 blockers. Its primary function is to reduce stomach acid production, making it an effective treatment for various digestive issues, including heartburn and acid reflux. By inhibiting the action of histamine on the H2 receptors in the stomach, famotidine helps to alleviate the uncomfortable symptoms associated with excess stomach acid.

How Does Famotidine Work?

The mechanism of action for famotidine is rooted in its ability to interact with specific cells in the stomach lining. These cells, known as parietal cells, are responsible for producing stomach acid. Famotidine works by binding to the H2 histamine receptors on these cells, effectively blocking the signal that triggers acid production. This results in a significant reduction in stomach acid levels, providing relief from heartburn and other related symptoms.

Medical Uses of Famotidine: Beyond Heartburn Relief

While famotidine is commonly associated with treating heartburn, its applications extend to various other digestive conditions. When prescribed by a healthcare professional, famotidine can be used to address:

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Peptic ulcers
• Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
• Erosive esophagitis

These conditions are often characterized by an overproduction of stomach acid, which famotidine effectively counteracts. By reducing acid levels, famotidine helps to alleviate symptoms and promote healing of damaged tissues in the digestive tract.

Over-the-Counter Famotidine: Dosage and Usage Guidelines

For those seeking relief from occasional heartburn, over-the-counter famotidine products like Pepcid AC are readily available. Understanding the proper dosage and usage is crucial for optimal results and safety.

Recommended Dosage for Adults and Children Over 12

The standard dosage for over-the-counter famotidine tablets is 20 mg, which can be taken once or twice daily. This dosage is suitable for adults and children 12 years and older. It’s important to note that the frequency of use should not exceed two tablets within a 24-hour period.

Timing of Famotidine Intake

Famotidine can be taken in two ways:

1. At the onset of heartburn symptoms for immediate relief
2. Preventatively, 10 to 60 minutes before consuming foods or drinks that may trigger heartburn

When taking famotidine, it should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water. Chewing the tablet is not recommended, as it may affect the medication’s efficacy.

Precautions and Side Effects of Famotidine Use

While famotidine is generally well-tolerated, it’s essential to be aware of potential side effects and take necessary precautions. Some common side effects may include:

• Headache
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Nausea

If these side effects persist or worsen, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider. In rare cases, more severe reactions may occur, such as:

• Itching or swelling
• Hives
• Rash
• Hoarseness
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing

Should any of these severe symptoms manifest, immediate medical attention is necessary.

Interactions and Contraindications of Famotidine

Famotidine may interact with other medications or supplements, potentially affecting their efficacy or causing adverse reactions. It’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you’re currently taking before starting famotidine.

Common Drug Interactions

Some medications that may interact with famotidine include:

• Antifungal medications (e.g., itraconazole, ketoconazole)
• Certain HIV medications
• Thyroid medications
• Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin)

These interactions can lead to altered drug absorption or effectiveness, potentially compromising treatment outcomes.

Contraindications

Famotidine should not be used by individuals with known allergies to famotidine or other H2 blockers. Additionally, caution is advised for those with kidney problems, as famotidine is primarily eliminated through the kidneys.

Comparing Famotidine to Other Heartburn Treatments

While famotidine is a highly effective treatment for heartburn and acid reflux, it’s not the only option available. Understanding how it compares to other treatments can help individuals make informed decisions about their digestive health.

Famotidine vs. Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

Proton pump inhibitors, such as omeprazole and esomeprazole, work differently from H2 blockers like famotidine. PPIs block the final step of acid production in the stomach, providing more potent and longer-lasting acid suppression. However, they may take longer to provide initial relief compared to famotidine.

Famotidine vs. Antacids

Antacids, such as calcium carbonate or magnesium hydroxide, work by neutralizing stomach acid rather than reducing its production. They provide faster relief than famotidine but typically have a shorter duration of action. Antacids are often used for occasional, mild heartburn, while famotidine is more suitable for frequent or moderate to severe symptoms.

Long-Term Use of Famotidine: Benefits and Considerations

While famotidine is effective for short-term relief of heartburn and acid reflux, some individuals may require long-term use for chronic conditions like GERD. Understanding the benefits and potential risks of prolonged famotidine use is crucial for making informed healthcare decisions.

Benefits of Long-Term Famotidine Use

Long-term use of famotidine can provide consistent relief from acid-related symptoms, improving quality of life for those with chronic digestive issues. It may also help prevent complications associated with persistent acid reflux, such as esophageal damage or Barrett’s esophagus.

Considerations for Extended Use

While generally safe for long-term use, extended famotidine treatment should be monitored by a healthcare provider. Some considerations include:

• Potential nutrient deficiencies due to reduced stomach acid
• Increased risk of certain infections, such as Clostridium difficile
• Possible masking of underlying conditions

Regular check-ups and discussions with a healthcare provider can help mitigate these risks and ensure the ongoing appropriateness of famotidine treatment.

Lifestyle Modifications to Complement Famotidine Treatment

While famotidine is effective in managing heartburn and acid reflux, combining medication with lifestyle changes can enhance its efficacy and potentially reduce reliance on medication over time.

Dietary Adjustments

Certain foods and beverages can trigger or exacerbate acid reflux symptoms. Consider avoiding or limiting:

• Spicy or fatty foods
• Citrus fruits and tomatoes
• Chocolate and mint
• Caffeine and alcoholic beverages

Lifestyle Changes

In addition to dietary modifications, the following lifestyle changes can help manage acid reflux:

• Eating smaller, more frequent meals
• Avoiding lying down immediately after eating
• Elevating the head of the bed
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Quitting smoking

By implementing these changes alongside famotidine treatment, individuals may experience more comprehensive and sustainable relief from acid-related symptoms.

Famotidine in Special Populations: Pregnancy, Breastfeeding, and Pediatric Use

The use of famotidine in special populations requires careful consideration and medical supervision. Understanding its safety profile and potential effects in these groups is essential for appropriate treatment decisions.

Famotidine During Pregnancy

Limited studies have been conducted on famotidine use during pregnancy. While no significant risks have been identified, pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider before using famotidine. In some cases, the benefits of treatment may outweigh potential risks, particularly for managing severe acid reflux or GERD during pregnancy.

Famotidine and Breastfeeding

Famotidine is known to pass into breast milk in small amounts. While it’s generally considered safe for use during breastfeeding, new mothers should discuss its use with their healthcare provider. In some cases, alternative treatments or timing of famotidine doses may be recommended to minimize infant exposure.

Pediatric Use of Famotidine

Famotidine can be used in children, but dosage and administration should be carefully determined based on age, weight, and specific condition. Over-the-counter famotidine products are typically not recommended for children under 12 years old without medical supervision. For younger children or infants, prescription famotidine may be used under the guidance of a pediatrician.

When considering famotidine use in these special populations, it’s crucial to weigh the potential benefits against any risks and to follow medical advice closely. Regular monitoring and follow-up can help ensure safe and effective treatment outcomes.

Famotidine: An h3 Blocker That Relieves Heartburn Fast

Famotidine is an ingredient found in medications that prevent and lessen heartburn symptoms. When you take famotidine, your stomach makes less acid, which helps stop heartburn from occurring.

What Is Famotidine Used For?

Stomach acid contains enzymes and other molecules that help digest food¹. However, when too much acid is produced, it can damage the stomach or other digestive organs, leading to several conditions.

Famotidine, when prescribed by a doctor, can be used to treat²:

Acid reflux is a condition that occurs when stomach acid and undigested food flow back out of your stomach and into your esophagus, the tube that connects your mouth and stomach. When acid reflux happens regularly, it is called GERD. Heartburn is a symptom of acid reflux. It is characterized by a burning sensation in the chest.

Non-prescription famotidine can be used to:

How Does Famotidine Work?

Stomach acid is made by parietal cells, a type of cell found in the lining of the stomach. These cells contain several “switches” that help control when acid production is turned on or off. One switch is a protein called the h3 histamine receptor. When this protein is activated, parietal cells begin making more acid³.

Famotidine is a type of drug known as an h3 receptor antagonist (h3RA) or simply an h3 blocker. h3 blockers attach to the h3 histamine receptor, preventing it from turning on and blocking the parietal cells from creating extra acid³. Less acid in the stomach reduces the chances that acid reflux will occur.

Watch a video to see how h3 blockers like PEPCID^® work:

How To Take Over-The-Counter

Famotidine Tablets

In order to treat acid reflux symptoms like heartburn, adults and children 12 years or over can take a 20 mg tablet of famotidine once or twice per day. You can take famotidine tablets when you start to feel heartburn symptoms come on. Alternatively, to prevent heartburn, you can take one tablet 10 to 60 minutes before eating or drinking something that could trigger heartburn⁴.

Simply swallow the tablet with a full glass of water. Do not chew the tablet. For children under the age of 12, ask a doctor before using famotidine⁴.

Don’t use more than two famotidine tablets within a 24-hour period. Additionally, stop use and see a doctor if you need to take this product for more than two weeks².

If you have any questions about using famotidine tablets, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

When you need heartburn relief fast, try Maximum Strength PEPCID AC^® with 20 mg of famotidine. You can also take Maximum Strength PEPCID AC^® before a meal in order to help prevent symptoms from starting in the first place.

Maximum Strength PEPCID AC^® is not indicated to treat GERD. If you have been experiencing hearburn for three months, talk to your doctor before using Maxium Strength PEPCID AC^®. If you have trouble or pain swallowing food, vomiting with blood, or bloody or black stools, do not use Maximum Strength PEPCID AC^®, and see your doctor right away. These may be signs of a more serious condition.

Precautions & Side Effects

Famotidine side effects can include²:

Tell your doctor if you experience these side effects and they don’t go away. Additionally, call your doctor right away if you notice itching, swelling, hives or a rash, hoarseness, or breathing or swallowing problems².

Don’t use this medication if you have an allergy to famotidine or other acid-reducing drugs. Additionally, you should avoid taking famotidine at the same time as other heartburn medications unless your doctor recommends it. Tell your doctor about all prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements that you are taking, since famotidine can sometimes interact with them.

References

• ¹How Does the Stomach Work? InformedHealth.org.
  Updated August 21, 2016. Accessed December 16, 2021.
• ²Famotidine. MedlinePlus. Revised October 15, 2017.
  Accessed December 16, 2021.
• ³Engevik AC, Kaji I, Goldenring JR. The Physiology of the
  Gastric Parietal Cell. Physiol Rev. 2020;100(2):573-602.
• ⁴Label: Pepcid AC Maximum Strength – Famotidine Tablet,
  Film Coated. DailyMed. Updated October 13, 2021. Accessed December 16, 2021.

WHAT IS PEPCID®? | PEPCID®

PEPCID® is the original brand with the active ingredient famotidine which is a histamine-2 blocker (h3 blocker) that provides relief for occasional heartburn.

PEPCID® Is The #1 Doctor And Pharmacist Recommended Choice

BY DOCTORS
IQVIA Survey 2021

BY GASTROENTEROLOGISTS
IQVIA Survey 2021

BY PHARMACISTS
U.S. News Survey 2021

PEPCID® is the #1 Doctor Recommended OTC Acid Reducer Brand for many reasons:

• It provides fast heartburn relief:
  • Original and Maximum Strength PEPCID AC® relieve heartburn in minutes*
  • PEPCID COMPLETE® is a dual-action antacid & acid reducer that starts working in seconds
• It provides long-lasting acid control^†: controls acid all day or all night (for up to 12 hours)
• It can prevent heartburn before it starts^‡
• PEPCID® has been evaluated in 50+ clinical studies and is backed by pioneering research
• The original famotidine brand made available directly to consumers is backed by 35 years of expertise
• It does not contain ranitidine, which FDA had requested manufacturers withdraw from market in 2019

*Begins to work in 15 to 30 minutes.
^†Based on 9-hour acid control studies during the day and 12-hour acid control studies during the night. Acid control does not imply symptom relief.
^‡PEPCID AC® and Maximum Strength PEPCID AC® can prevent heartburn when taken 15 to 60 minutes before a meal.

What Is Famotidine?

Famotidine is a histamine-2 blocker. It works by decreasing the amount of acid the stomach produces by blocking the histamine receptors in your stomach responsible for triggering acid production.

Is PEPCID® Safe?

PEPCID® is the original famotidine brand and, for 35 years, has been effective and safe acid reducer when used as directed. PEPCID® is clinically proven to provide heartburn relief and is backed by 50+ clinical studies. PEPCID® is the #1 doctor recommended OTC acid reducer brand in the market.

Figure Out Which PEPCID® Product Is Best For You

PEPCID® offers three main products that provide relief of occasional heartburn that you can take whenever you need. Original Strength PEPCID AC® and Maximum Strength PEPCID AC® contain an h3 blocker that begins to work in 15-30 minutes and helps control acid all day or all night.* PEPCID COMPLETE® combines an h3 blocker with an antacid that starts neutralizing acid in your stomach in seconds, so it works even faster. Because the faster it starts relieving heartburn, the better. PEPCID® is an FDA approved, safe and effective remedy to relieve symptoms of occasional heartburn when used as directed.

^*Based on 9-hour acid control studies during the day and 12-hour acid control studies during the night. Acid control does not imply symptom relief.

Famotidine 10mg

(Acid Reducer)

Famotidine 20mg

(Acid Reducer)

Famotidine 10mg

(Acid Reducer)

Calcium Carbonate 800mg

(Antacid)

Magnesium Hydroxide 165mg

(Antacid)

Famotidine 10mg

(Acid Reducer)

Calcium Carbonate 800mg

(Antacid)

Magnesium Hydroxide 165mg

(Antacid)

Starts to work in minutes¹

Starts to work in minutes¹

Starts to work in seconds²

Starts to work in seconds²

³

⁴

1 tablet

1 tablet

1 chewable tablet

1 chewable tablet

When you need to prevent and treat heartburn within minutes^{1, 3}

When you need a powerful remedy to prevent and treat tough heartburn symptoms

When you need a dual-action formula that goes further than an antacid alone to provide
quick relief in a flavored chewable tablet

When you need the same quick relief of PEPCID COMPLETE® chewables, but in a
convenient, on-the-go size

Our Heartburn Relief Products

PEPCID COMPLETE® Chewable Tablet with Famotidine & Antacids

Original Strength PEPCID AC® Tablets with Famotidine

Maximum Strength PEPCID AC® Tablets with Famotidine

PEPCID COMPLETE® ON-THE-GO Chewable Tablet with Famotidine & Antacids

SEE WHY PEPCID® COULD WORK FOR YOU

h3 Blocker vs.