You're not logged in. Please log in to earn stock or Bitcoin rewards on your prescription purchase.
Pepcid
Pepcid, the brand name for famotidine, is an H2 (histamine-2) receptor antagonist used to reduce the production of stomach acid. It is commonly prescribed to treat conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), heartburn, peptic ulcers, and acid indigestion. Pepcid works by blocking histamine receptors in the stomach lining, decreasing the amount of acid produced, and providing relief from symptoms associated with excess stomach acid.
Rx. Enter your prescription
How would you like to get your prescription? Select an option
Pharmacy pickup
Select from 35,000 pharmacies
Free two-day delivery
Coming soon!
Find a pharmacy near you. Enter your ZIP code
Are you a member? Sign up or log in.
Members have saved
$NaN
using our savings card for instant savings.
Don't pay full retail price and miss out on potential savings. Try it now—you have nothing to lose!
NaNM
worth of Satoshi has been rewarded to our members.
Everyone who signs up enjoys the benefits of earning FREE Bitcoin with every purchase.
How much Bitcoin can you earn with Pepcid ?
The potential for Bitcoin rewards to increase and appreciate in value is a possibility to consider, which may occur over time.
See the value of your savings today
Today's Value
1 Bitcoin = $NaN
Bitcoin (BTC)
...
USD
$NaN
Adjust Bitcoin's potential value to see how much it could be worth
Potential Value
1 Bitcoin =
Bitcoin (BTC)
...
USD
$NaN
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for Pepcid to work?
Pepcid starts to reduce stomach acid within 30 to 60 minutes after taking it, and the effects can last for up to 12 hours.
Can I take Pepcid every day?
Yes, Pepcid can be taken daily, but long-term use should be monitored by a healthcare provider to avoid potential side effects like vitamin B12 deficiency. Over-the-counter use should not exceed 2 weeks unless directed by a healthcare provider.
Can Pepcid be used for children?
Yes, Pepcid is sometimes prescribed for children with conditions like GERD, but the dosage is based on weight. Always consult a pediatrician before giving Pepcid to a child.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Pepcid?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the time for your next dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Is Pepcid safe to take during pregnancy?
Pepcid is considered safe for use during pregnancy, but it’s always best to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any medication during pregnancy.
Comprehensive Drug Guide
How Does Pepcid Work?
Pepcid (famotidine) works by blocking H2 receptors in the stomach lining. These receptors are responsible for stimulating the production of stomach acid. By inhibiting these receptors, Pepcid decreases acid production, relieving symptoms like heartburn, indigestion, and the discomfort caused by acid reflux. It also allows ulcers to heal by reducing acid irritation in the stomach and intestines.
Common Dosages
- 10 mg, 20 mg, and 40 mg tablets.
- Oral suspension: 40 mg/5 mL.
- IV injection: for hospital use in acute cases.
Typical Dosing
- For heartburn and GERD: The typical dose for mild symptoms is 10-20 mg once or twice daily, depending on symptom severity.
- For active duodenal ulcers: The usual dose is 40 mg once daily at bedtime or 20 mg twice daily for 4-8 weeks.
- For Zollinger-Ellison syndrome: Higher doses, such as 20-40 mg every 6 hours, may be used to control excessive stomach acid production.
Typical Dosing
FDA Approved Indications
- Treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
- Prevention and treatment of heartburn and acid indigestion.
- Healing of active duodenal ulcers and gastric ulcers.
- Treatment of Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, a condition where the stomach produces excessive amounts of acid.
Who Shouldn't Take Pepcid?
- Known hypersensitivity to famotidine or other H2 receptor antagonists.
- Severe kidney impairment, without dose adjustment, as the drug is primarily cleared through the kidneys.
Advice From The Pharmacist
- Take Pepcid 15-60 minutes before eating to prevent heartburn, especially if certain foods or activities trigger your symptoms.
- Avoid taking Pepcid with alcohol, as alcohol can worsen acid reflux and may interfere with the effectiveness of the medication.
- If you experience persistent symptoms or if symptoms worsen after two weeks of OTC use, contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation and treatment.
- Pepcid can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may help reduce stomach irritation.
- Drink plenty of water when taking Pepcid to help the medication work effectively.
Side Effects of Pepcid
Common Side Effects
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
Uncommon/Severe Side Effects
- Severe allergic reactions: Rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
- Heart rhythm problems: In rare cases, especially in individuals with kidney problems.
- Confusion or hallucinations, particularly in elderly patients or those with impaired kidney function.
Risks and Warnings of Pepcid
- Kidney impairment: Famotidine is excreted by the kidneys, and individuals with reduced kidney function may need dose adjustments to prevent drug accumulation and side effects.
- Prolonged use: Long-term use of Pepcid (especially at high doses) can sometimes lead to vitamin B12 deficiency, as stomach acid is important for absorbing this vitamin. Monitoring may be needed for those using the drug chronically.
- Masking serious conditions: Persistent heartburn and indigestion symptoms may be a sign of a more serious condition, such as stomach cancer or severe esophagitis. If symptoms persist despite treatment, further medical evaluation is advised.
Interactions with Pepcid
Common Drug Interactions
- Antacids: While antacids can help relieve heartburn symptoms, taking them with Pepcid can decrease its absorption. Take antacids at least 1 hour apart from Pepcid.
- Ketoconazole and itraconazole (antifungals): Reduced stomach acid levels caused by Pepcid can decrease the absorption of these medications.
- Atazanavir (HIV medication): Pepcid can reduce the effectiveness of atazanavir by lowering stomach acid, which is necessary for the absorption of the drug.
Alternatives to Pepcid
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): Such as omeprazole or lansoprazole, are alternatives for treating GERD and ulcers. They provide longer-lasting acid reduction but may have different side effects.
- Other H2 blockers: Such as ranitidine or cimetidine, although these drugs may have more interactions or side effects.
- Antacids: Such as Tums or Maalox, can provide immediate relief of heartburn but do not reduce acid production like Pepcid.
