Pepcid (famotidine) is a histamine-2 (H2) blocker that provides clinically proven, long-lasting relief from heartburn, acid indigestion, and sour stomach by reducing stomach acid production. As a non-prescription strength formulation, it offers a reliable over-the-counter solution for episodic symptoms, backed by decades of physician trust and extensive clinical research. This product card details its appropriate use, mechanism, and safety profile for informed consumer decision-making.

Features

• Active ingredient: Famotidine 10 mg or 20 mg (tablet/chewable) / 10 mg per 5 mL (liquid suspension)
• Formulation: Coated tablets, chewable tablets, oral suspension
• Onset of action: Within 1 hour
• Duration of effect: Up to 12 hours of acid control
• Non-antacid mode of action: Reduces acid production at the source
• Sugar-free and gluten-free options available

Benefits

• Provides prolonged relief from heartburn and acid reflux symptoms
• Prevents acid-related discomfort before meals or consumption of trigger foods
• Reduces the frequency and severity of episodic gastroesophageal reflux
• Supports esophageal healing in cases of mild reflux esophagitis
• Minimizes nighttime acid breakthrough with evening dosing
• Offers flexible dosing options for individualized symptom management

Common use

Pepcid is commonly used for the relief and prevention of heartburn, acid indigestion, and sour stomach associated with acid reflux. It is also indicated for the symptomatic treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in its non-erosive form. Many users take it prophylactically before consuming known trigger foods or beverages. Healthcare professionals may also recommend it for managing occasional sleep disruption due to nocturnal acid symptoms. Its non-antacid mechanism makes it suitable for situations where prolonged acid control is desired rather than immediate, short-term neutralization.

Dosage and direction

For adults and children 12 years and older:

• Relief of heartburn/acid indigestion: 10 mg with water, once daily
• Prevention of heartburn: 10 mg 15–60 minutes before eating food or drinking beverages that may cause heartburn
• Maximum daily dose: 20 mg (do not take more than 2 tablets in 24 hours)

Tablets should be swallowed whole with water; chewable tablets must be thoroughly chewed before swallowing. The oral suspension should be shaken well before each use and measured with the provided dosing cup. Do not use for more than 14 days continuously unless directed by a physician.

Precautions

• Consult a healthcare provider before use if you have trouble or pain swallowing food, vomiting with blood, or bloody or black stools
• Not intended for immediate relief; allow up to 1 hour for full effect
• Do not use if you have kidney disease without medical supervision
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding: Consult a healthcare professional before use
• Not recommended for children under 12 years unless directed by a doctor
• Discontinue use and seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen after 14 days

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to famotidine or any component of the formulation
• Patients with a history of acute porphyria
• Those with severe renal impairment (CrCl <30 mL/min) without dosage adjustment
• Concurrent use with certain HIV medications (e.g., atazanavir, rilpivirine)

Possible side effect

Most side effects are mild and transient. Common reactions may include:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Fatigue

Less frequently reported effects:

• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Skin rash
• Elevated liver enzymes (usually asymptomatic)

Rare but serious side effects requiring immediate medical attention:

• Confusion or agitation (especially in elderly or critically ill patients)
• Irregular heartbeat
• Signs of allergic reaction: swelling of face/lips/tongue, difficulty breathing, severe skin reactions

Drug interaction

Famotidine may interact with:

• Atazanavir, rilpivirine (reduced absorption and efficacy)
• Ketoconazole, itraconazole (reduced absorption)
• Warfarin (monitoring recommended due to potential CYP450 interaction)
• Procainamide (possible increased levels)
• Certain antifungals and anticonvulsants

Consult a healthcare provider or pharmacist before combining with prescription medications.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Resume the regular dosing schedule. For as-needed use, missing a dose is generally not consequential.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include:

• Confusion
• Rapid heartbeat
• Nausea/vomiting
• Difficulty breathing

In case of suspected overdose, contact a poison control center (1-800-222-1222) or emergency medical services immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless directed by medical personnel.

Storage

Store at room temperature (20–25°C or 68–77°F). Keep the container tightly closed and protect from moisture. Do not freeze the liquid suspension. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Discard any unused medication after the expiration date printed on the packaging.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any health condition or before starting any new medication. Individual responses may vary. Do not use this product as a substitute for medical evaluation of persistent or severe symptoms.

Reviews

Clinical studies and user reports consistently highlight Pepcid’s efficacy in managing mild to moderate acid-related symptoms. In controlled trials, famotidine 10 mg demonstrated significant improvement in heartburn relief compared to placebo within 1 hour of administration, with effects lasting up to 12 hours. Users frequently report satisfaction with its predictable action and minimal side effects. Many appreciate the convenience of chewable and liquid formulations for those with swallowing difficulties. Healthcare professionals often recommend it as a first-line OTC option for intermittent symptom management, noting its favorable safety profile and well-established pharmacokinetics.