Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Famotidine is used to treat ulcers of the stomach and intestines and to prevent intestinal ulcers from coming back after they have healed. This medication is also used to treat certain stomach and throat problems and to prevent and treat heartburn and other symptoms caused by too much acid in the stomach. It works by decreasing the amount of acid your stomach makes. It relieves symptoms such as cough that doesn’t go away, stomach pain, heartburn, and difficulty swallowing. Famotidine belongs to a class of drugs known as H2 blockers.This medication is also available without a prescription.
Uses and Dosage
Prescription famotidine is available in tablet and liquid suspension forms for oral consumption. Typically, it is taken once daily at bedtime or two to four times a day. On the other hand, over-the-counter famotidine is found in tablet, chewable tablet, and capsule forms, usually taken once or twice a day.
To prevent symptoms, it is recommended to take this medication 15 to 60 minutes before consuming foods or drinks that may induce heartburn.
Take famotidine precisely as directed, avoiding deviations such as taking more or less of it, or increasing the frequency or duration beyond the doctor’s prescription.
For the liquid form, shake it well for 5 to 10 seconds before each use to ensure even distribution of the medicine. Tablets and capsules should be swallowed with a full glass of water.
Chewable tablets should be thoroughly chewed before swallowing, followed by a full glass of water.
When using over-the-counter famotidine, do not exceed two tablets, capsules, or chewable tablets in a 24-hour period, and refrain from taking it for more than 2 weeks unless otherwise advised by your doctor. If symptoms persist beyond 2 weeks, discontinue over-the-counter famotidine and consult your doctor.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- headache
- dizziness
- constipation
- diarrhea
- Fussiness (in babies)
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- hives
- skin rash
- itching
- swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- hoarseness
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
Caution
- Before initiating famotidine, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it, other H2 blockers (such as cimetidine, ranitidine), or if you have any other allergies. Inactive ingredients in the product may induce allergic reactions or other complications.
- Prior to using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have immune system problems, kidney problems, liver problems, lung problems, or other stomach issues like tumors.
- Certain symptoms may signify a more serious condition. Seek immediate medical assistance if you experience heartburn accompanied by lightheadedness, sweating, or dizziness, or if you have chest/jaw/arm/shoulder pain, particularly with shortness of breath, unusual sweating, or unexplained weight loss.
- If you are considering self-treatment with this medication, seek prompt medical help if you observe signs of a serious condition, including trouble/pain swallowing food, bloody vomit, vomit resembling coffee grounds, bloody/black stools, heartburn persisting for over 3 months, frequent chest pain, frequent wheezing (especially in conjunction with heartburn), nausea/vomiting, or stomach pain.
- Do not administer this medication to children under 12 unless directed by a doctor.
- Older adults may be more susceptible to the side effects of this drug, particularly mental/mood changes (such as confusion), seizures, or unusual tiredness.
- During pregnancy, famotidine should only be used when clearly necessary. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
- This drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Pepcid AC Maximum Strength is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Pepcid AC Maximum Strength tablet:
- 20 mg
FAQ
Can I take 2 Pepcid AC Maximum Strength?
Yes, however you should not use more than 2 tablets in a 24 hour period.
How fast does Pepcid AC Maximum Strength work?
Pepcid AC Maximum Strength begins to work in 15-30 minutes, and the effects last for up to 12 hours.
Resources
- https://www.pepcid.com/our-products/maximum-strength-pepcid-ac#:~:text=To%20relieve%20symptoms%2C%20swallow%201,2%20tablets%20in%2024%20hours
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/famotidine-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20072972?p=1
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-16241-2033/pepcid-ac-oral/famotidine-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a687011.html
- https://www.drugs.com/pepcid.html
