Pepcid

Why should Pepcid not be prescribed?

If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Pepcid, or a comparable H ₂ blocker such as Tagamet, Zantac, or Axid, you should not take this medication. Make sure your doctor is aware of any drug reactions you have experienced.

Special warnings about Pepcid

If you have stomach cancer, Pepcid may relieve the symptoms without curing the disease. Your doctor will be careful to rule out this possibility.

Use Pepcid with caution if you have severe kidney disease.

Although heartburn and acid indigestion are common, see your doctor if you have trouble swallowing or abdominal pain that does not let up.

Do not take 2 tablets of Pepcid AC a day continuously for more than 2 weeks unless your doctor tells you to.

You can help avoid heartburn and acid indigestion by:

Not lying down soon after eating
Keeping your weight down
Stopping smoking, or at least cutting down
Avoiding or limiting caffeine, chocolate, fatty foods, and alcohol
Not eating just before bedtime

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Pepcid

If Pepcid is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either can be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important that you check with your doctor before combining Pepcid with the following:

Itraconazole (Sporanox)
Ketoconazole (Nizoral)

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Pepcid during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Pepcid may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If this medication is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment with this medication is finished.

Recommended dosage

ADULTS

Duodenal Ulcer

The usual starting dose is 40 milligrams or 5 milliliters (1 teaspoonful) once a day at bedtime. Results should be seen within 4 weeks, and this medication should not be used at full dosage longer than 6 to 8 weeks. Your doctor may have you take 20 milligrams or 2.5 milliliters (half a teaspoonful) twice a day. The normal maintenance dose after your ulcer has healed is 20 milligrams or 2.5 milliliters (half a teaspoonful) once a day at bedtime.