Pepcid

Generic name: Famotidine

Why is Pepcid prescribed?

Pepcid is prescribed for the short-term treatment of active duodenal ulcer (in the upper intestine) for 4 to 8 weeks and for active, benign gastric ulcer (in the stomach) for 6 to 8 weeks. It is prescribed for maintenance therapy, at reduced dosage, after a duodenal ulcer has healed. It is also used for short-term treatment of GERD, a condition in which the acid contents of the stomach flow back into the food canal (esophagus), and for resulting inflammation of the esophagus. And it is prescribed for certain diseases that cause the stomach to produce excessive quantities of acid, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Pepcid belongs to a class of drugs known as histamine H ₂ blockers.

There are two over-the-counter forms of Pepcid. One version, Pepcid AC, is used to relieve and prevent heartburn, acid indigestion, and sour stomach. The other version, Pepcid Complete, also contains the antacids calcium and magnesium along with famotidine. Pepcid Complete is used to relieve heartburn, acid indigestion, and sour stomach but not for the prevention of symptoms.

Most important fact about Pepcid

To cure your ulcer, you need to take Pepcid for the full time of treatment your doctor prescribes. Keep taking the drug even if you begin to feel better.

How should you take Pepcid?

It may take several days for Pepcid to begin relieving stomach pain. You can use antacids for the pain at the same time you take Pepcid.

If you are taking Pepcid suspension, shake it vigorously for 5 to 10 seconds before use.

Take Pepcid AC with water. To prevent symptoms take it 1 hour before a meal you expect will cause trouble.

• If you miss a dose...
  Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

• Storage instructions...
  Store at room temperature in a dry place. Protect the suspension from freezing, and discard any unused portion after 30 days.