Notice: Images are for illustration only and may not reflect the exact product you receive. Brand-name medications may look different depending on their country of origin—Canadian versions, for example, often include a "PR" symbol on the packaging. Rest assured, the medication, dosage, and active ingredients will be exactly as prescribed. Canada Pharmacy Store is committed to your health and safety, and we work only with licensed pharmacies to ensure you receive trusted, high-quality medication every time.
General Medication Fact Sheet for Famotidine
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Generic Name | Famotidine |
| Brand Name Versions | Pepcid |
| Purpose | Reduces stomach acid production to treat ulcers, heartburn, acid reflux, and GERD. |
| Mechanism of Action | Histamine H2 receptor antagonist; blocks histamine’s action on parietal cells, reducing gastric acid secretion. |
| Dosage Forms | Oral tablets, oral suspension, intravenous injection |
| Available Strengths | 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg |
| Dosage Frequency | Once or twice daily, as directed by a healthcare provider. |
| Common Side Effects | Headache, dizziness, constipation, diarrhea |
| Serious Side Effects | Rare: irregular heartbeat, muscle cramps, seizures |
| Drug Interactions | Certain antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole), medications that require stomach acid for absorption, probenecid. |
| Important Notes | May mask symptoms of more serious conditions. Consult a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen. |
| Storage | Store at room temperature away from moisture and light. |
| Missed Dose | Take as soon as you remember; skip if it’s almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose. |
| Alternatives | Omeprazole, Pantoprazole, Ranitidine, Cimetidine |
Famotidine Alternatives
| Medication | Mechanism of Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Omeprazole (Prilosec) | Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) | Reduces stomach acid production more effectively than H2 blockers. |
| Pantoprazole (Protonix) | Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) | Another PPI option with similar efficacy to Omeprazole. |
| Ranitidine (Zantac) | Histamine H2 receptor antagonist | Similar mechanism to famotidine but may have different side effect profiles. Note: Ranitidine has been recalled in the past due to potential impurities; consult your doctor. |
| Cimetidine (Tagamet) | Histamine H2 receptor antagonist | Older H2 blocker; interacts with more medications than famotidine. |
Famotidine Side Effects
| Common Side Effects | Serious Side Effects |
|---|---|
| Headache | Irregular heartbeat (rare) |
| Dizziness | Muscle cramps (rare) |
| Constipation | Seizures (very rare) |
| Diarrhea | Allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing) |
Famotidine Dosage Guide
| Condition | Starting Dose | Maintenance Dose | Administration Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heartburn | 10 mg to 20 mg | 10 mg to 20 mg once or twice daily | Take as needed or as directed by a doctor. |
| Acid Reflux/GERD | 20 mg | 20 mg once or twice daily | Take as directed by a doctor. May be taken with or without food. |
| Duodenal Ulcer | 40 mg | 20 mg once daily | Take at bedtime. |
Famotidine Price With And Without Insurance
| Purchase Context | Estimated Price |
|---|---|
| With Insurance | $10 |
| Without Insurance (U.S.) | $10 – $25 |
| From CPS | $25.95 |
