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Pepcid (Famotidine)
Drug Uses
Pepcid blocks the action of histamine on stomach cells, and reduces stomach acid production. Pepcid is useful in promoting the healing of stomach and duodenal ulcers and in reducing ulcer pain. Pepcid has been effective in preventing recurrence of ulcers when given in low doses for prolonged periods of time. Pepcid 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.
How Taken
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.
Drug Class and Mechanism
Histamine is a chemical made by the body that stimulates cells lining the stomach to produce acid. Pepcid 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). Pepcid was approved by the FDA in November, 1986.
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 the dose to catch up.
Storage
Tablets and suspension should be stored at room temperature, 15 -30°C (59-86°F). Injection should be stored between 2-8°C (36-46°F).
