Why is Pepcid prescribed?

Pepcid is prescribed for the short-term treatment of active duodenal ulcer (in the upper intestine) for 4 to 8 weeks and for active, benign gastric ulcer (in the stomach) for 6 to 8 weeks. It is prescribed for maintenance therapy, at reduced dosage, after a duodenal ulcer has healed. It is also used for short-term treatment of GERD, a condition in which the acid contents of the stomach flow back into the food canal (esophagus), and for resulting inflammation of the esophagus. And it is prescribed for certain diseases that cause the stomach to produce excessive quantities of acid, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Pepcid belongs to a class of drugs known as histamine H 2 blockers.

An over-the-counter formulation, Pepcid AC, is used to relieve and prevent heartburn, acid indigestion, and sour stomach.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Pepcid (Famotidine/Calcium) during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Pepcid may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If this medication is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment with this medication is finished.

Recommended dosage

ADULTS

Duodenal Ulcer

The usual starting dose is 40 milligrams or 5 milliliters (1 teaspoonful) once a day at bedtime. Results should be seen within 4 weeks, and this medication should not be used at full dosage longer than 6 to 8 weeks. Your doctor may have you take 20 milligrams or 2.5 milliliters (half a teaspoonful) twice a day. The normal maintenance dose after your ulcer has healed is 20 milligrams or 2.5 milliliters (half a teaspoonful) once a day at bedtime.

Peptic Ulcer

The usual daily dose is 0.5 milligram per 2.2 pounds of body weight. The entire dose may be given at bedtime, or divided and given in 2 smaller doses. Do not give more than 40 milligrams per day.

If your child's kidneys are not functioning properly, your doctor will adjust the dosage.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

The usual daily dose is 1 milligram per 2.2 pounds of body weight, divided and given in 2 smaller doses. Do not exceed 40 milligrams daily.

If your child's kidneys are not functioning properly, your doctor will adjust the dosage.

INFANTS UNDER 12 MONTHS OLD

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

The usual starting dose of the oral suspension is 0.5 milligrams per 2.2 pounds of body weight once a day for infants under 3 months and twice a day for infants 3 to 11 months. The dosage can be given for up to 8 weeks. Your doctor may also recommend additional measures to relieve the symptoms, such as thickening the child's food.

If your child's kidneys are not functioning properly, your doctor will adjust the dosage.

Do not give Pepcid (Famotidine/Calcium) AC to children under 12 years old unless your doctor approves. Swallow tablets or gelcaps with a glass of water. Chew the chewable tablets completely; do not swallow them whole. Do not take more than 2 pills a day or take them for longer than 2 weeks unless your doctor approves.

For Prevention

Take 1 tablet, gelcap, or chewable tablet 15 minutes or more before eating a meal that could cause heartburn.

For Relief

Take 1 tablet, gelcap, or chewable tablet.

Why should Pepcid (Famotidine/Calcium) not be prescribed?

If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Pepcid (Famotidine/Calcium), or a comparable H 2 blocker such as or Axid, Zantac, Tagamet, you should not take this medication. Make sure your doctor is aware of any drug reactions you have experienced.

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.