Pepcid

How does it work?

This medicine contains the active ingredient famotidine, which is a type of medicine called an H2-receptor antagonist. It works by blocking histamine (H2) receptors that are present on cells in the stomach lining. Normally a substance called histamine binds to these receptors. Histamine is produced throughout the body and has many effects. When histamine binds to H2 receptors on cells in the stomach lining it causes them to produce acid. Famotidine works by binding to the H2 receptors on the stomach cells, thereby replacing some of the histamine. As a result, the amount of stomach acid produced by these cells is decreased. Stomach acid is present as a normal part of the digestive process. However, if large amounts of stomach acid are produced, the excess acid may flow back into the food pipe (oesophagus) causing pain and a burning sensation known as heartburn or gastro-oesophageal reflux. If severe, it can cause ulceration or erosions in the oesophagus. In addition, the linings of the stomach and duodenum (an area of the intestine directly after the stomach) have a protective layer that normally resists acid attack. If this layer is damaged, or large amounts of stomach acid are produced, a peptic ulcer can develop. Famotidine decreases the amount of acid in the stomach and duodenum. As a result, it helps relieve gastro-oesophageal reflux, and aids the healing of ulcers. It is also used in various conditions where there is excess acid production in the stomach, eg Zollinger–Ellison syndrome.

What is it used for?

Excessive secretion of stomach acid due to a tumour or enlargement of the pancreas (Zollinger-Ellison syndrome)

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease

Peptic ulcers

Preventing relapse of duodenal ulcers

Preventing relapse of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease

Warning!

This medicine can mask the symptoms of stomach cancer and therefore delay diagnosis of this condition. For this reason, when a stomach ulcer is suspected, your doctor should exclude the possibility of stomach cancer before you start treatment with this medicine, particularly if you are middle aged or older and have new or recently changed symptoms.

The safety and efficacy of this medicine in children has not been studied by the manufacturer.

Use with caution in

Decreased kidney function

Not to be used in

Allergy to other histamine H2 antagonists

Breastfeeding

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

This medicine is not recommended for use in pregnancy unless considered essential by your doctor. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

This medicine passes into breast milk. Breastfeeding mothers should therefore either stop breastfeeding while taking this medicine, or not take this medicine. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

Depression

Confusion

Muscle cramps

Disturbances of the gut such as diarrhoea, constipation, nausea, vomiting or abdominal pain

An extreme allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)

Loss of appetite

Skin reactions such as rash and itch

Anxiety and agitation

Jaundice caused by blockage of bile flow (cholestatic jaundice)

Headache

Dizziness

Dry mouth

Fatigue

Abnormal enlargement of breasts in men (gynaecomastia)

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

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