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Histamine-2 (H2) Antagonist: Famotidine (fah-MOH-tih-deen) (Pepcid®) What is this medication used for? Histamine-2 antagonists prevent damage to the gastrointestinal tract by decreasing the amount of acid produced by the cells in the lining of the stomach.
What does it look like? • Tablet • Liquid How is it given? • By mouth (oral or po)
Special instructions: • This is not the same medication as ranitidine (Zantac®) which has been withdrawn from the U.S. market. • This medication may be given with or without food; if it causes an upset stomach, it should be taken with food. • If this medication is in liquid suspension, shake well before use. • Tell a healthcare provider immediately if any of the following symptoms develops: severe dizziness or passing out; significant change in thinking clearly and logically; feeling extremely tired or weak; severe diarrhea; severe abdominal pain; unusual bruising or bleeding; rash; or any sign of allergic reaction, such as wheezing or swelling of the face. • If chest tightness develops, call 911 or go immediately to the nearest emergency room.
• Into the vein (IV) or venous access device What are the common side effects? • Headache • Dizziness • Diarrhea (loose stools) or constipation • Irritability or agitation, especially in infants • Vomiting, especially in infants What are the less common side effects? • Rash • Itching (pruritis) • Excess gas (flatulence)
• Upset stomach (indigestion) • Stomach (abdominal) pain
Notes from Your Healthcare Team
Not all of the possible side effects of this medicine and precautions related to taking it are covered in this information sheet. For a complete list of side effects and precautions, ask your healthcare professional (doctor, nurse, pharmacist) for a manufacturer’s package insert or another reference.
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