Medications and Drugs

GENERIC NAME: FAMOTIDINE - ORAL DISINTEGRATING TABLET (fam-OH-tih-dine)

BRAND NAME(S): Pepcid RPD

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication blocks secretion of acid from the stomach. It is used to treat and prevent ulcers, to treat gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD), and to treat conditions associated with excessive acid secretion.

HOW TO USE: This form of famotidine is meant to be dissolved on top of the tongue then swallowed with saliva. Do not chew, crush or swallow it whole. Dry your hands before peeling back the foil to remove a tablet. Do not try to push the tablet through the foil. Immediately after removing the tablet from its blister pack, place the tablet on your tongue where it will dissolve in seconds. After it dissolves, swallow it with saliva. Drinking a liquid is not necessary. Take this as directed. Do not increase your dose, take this more often than prescribed or stop using this without first consulting your doctor. After dissolving and swallowing the tablet, antacids may be used if needed.

SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, dizziness, constipation or diarrhea may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: rapid or pounding heartbeat, yellowing of the eyes or skin, mental confusion, depression, vision changes, joint or muscle pain, ringing in the ears. In the unlikely event you have a serious allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: heartburn combined with lightheadedness or sweating or dizziness, chest pain or shoulder/jaw pain especially with shortness of breath, pain spreading to arms or neck or shoulders, unexplained weight loss, liver or kidney problems, other stomach problems (e.g., tumors), any allergies (including drug allergies). Elderly persons may be more sensitive to the effects of this medication. Use cautiously. Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant. Famotidine is excreted into breast milk. Though there have been no reports (to date) of harm to nursing infants, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.