Famotidine

GENERIC NAME: famotidine

DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM
Histamine is a chemical made by the body that stimulates cells lining the stomach to produce acid. Famotidine belongs to a class of medications called H2-blockers that blocks the action of histamine on stomach cells, thus reducing production of acid by the stomach. Other H2 blockers include cimetidine (Tagamet), ranitidine (Zantac), and nizatidine (Axid). Famotidine was approved by the FDA in November, 1986.

PRESCRIPTION: Yes.

GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes.

PREPARATIONS: Tablets: 10, 20, and 40 mg. Suspension: 40 mg per 5 ml teaspoon. Injection: 10 mg/ml and 20 mg/50 ml.

PRESCRIBED FOR
Famotidine blocks the action of histamine on stomach cells, and reduces stomach acid production. Famotidine is useful in promoting the healing of stomach and duodenal ulcers and in reducing ulcer pain. Famotidine has been effective in preventing recurrence of ulcers when given in low doses for prolonged periods of time. Famotidine also is used for treating heartburn and in healing ulceration and inflammation of the esophagus (esophagitis) resulting from acid (gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD). High doses are used for treating conditions in which there are marked increases in acid secretion such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.

DOSING
The recommended adult oral dose for treating duodenal ulcers is 40 mg once daily at bedtime or 20 mg twice daily. Most patients heal their ulcers within 4 weeks. The regimen for maintenance therapy after the ulcers are healed is 20 mg once a day at bedtime.

The recommended adult oral dose for treating gastric ulcer is 40 mg once a day at bedtime, and esophagitis is treated with 20-40 mg twice daily for 6-12 weeks. Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is treated with 20 mg every 6 hours.

Heartburn due to GERD is treated with 10-20 mg daily.

USES
This medication blocks secretion of acid from the stomach. It is used to prevent and treat heartburn and acid indigestion.

HOW TO USE
This medication may be taken without regard to meals. Take 1 tablet to relieve symptoms. To prevent symptoms from occurring take 1 tablet one hour before eating a meal. Do not take more than 2 tablets in 24 hours. Do not take 2 tablets per day continuously for more than 2 weeks. If symptoms continue, contact your doctor. For the chewable form: chew the tablet thoroughly and use as directed (see above).

SIDE EFFECTS
Side effects of this medication are rare, however, headache, dizziness, constipation or diarrhea have been reported. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. In the unlikely event you have a serious allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: heartburn combined with lightheadedness or sweating or dizziness, chest pain or shoulder/jaw pain especially with shortness of breath, pain spreading to arms or neck or shoulders, unexplained weight loss, liver or kidney problems, trouble swallowing, black stools, persistent stomach pain, a history of smoking or alcohol use, other stomach problems (e.g., tumors), any allergies (including drug allergies). Before using this drug, tell your doctor if you are pregnant. This drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding. This drug is not recommended for children under 12 years of age unless prescribed by their doctor.

DRUG INTERACTIONS
Tell your doctor or pharmacist of all medications you may use, including prescription or nonprescription drugs, especially of: azole antifungals (e.g., itraconazole, ketoconazole). This medication is available in both prescription and over-the-counter formulations. Do not take both at the same time. 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. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. Symptoms of overdose may include difficulty breathing, fast heartbeat, tremors, vomiting, restlessness, weakness, fatigue, or dizziness.

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-up" the dose to catch up.

STORAGE
Do not store above 86 degrees F (30 degrees C). Keep away from moisture. Do not store in the bathroom.

Note : This product information is intended only for residents of the India. Taj Pharmaceuticals Limited, medicines help to treat and prevent a range of conditions—from the most common to the most challenging—for people around the world.