Pepcid
"Overview of Heartburn
The esophagus is a tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. It is made of muscles that work to push food toward the stomach in rhythmic waves. Once in the stomach, food is prevented from refluxing (moving b"...
Pepcid
PEPCID®
(famotidine) Tablets
DRUG DESCRIPTION
The active ingredient in PEPCID® (famotidine) is a histamine H2-receptor antagonist. Famotidine is N'(aminosulfonyl)-3-[[[2-[(diaminomethylene)amino]-4-thiazolyl]methyl]thio]propanimidamide. The empirical formula of famotidine is C8H15N7O2S3 and its molecular weight is 337.43. Its structural formula is:
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Famotidine is a white to pale yellow crystalline compound that is freely soluble in glacial acetic acid, slightly soluble in methanol, very slightly soluble in water, and practically insoluble in ethanol.
Each tablet for oral administration contains either 20 mg or 40 mg of famotidine and the following inactive ingredients: hydroxypropyl cellulose, hypromellose, iron oxides, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, corn starch, talc, titanium dioxide, and carnauba wax.
What are the possible side effects of famotidine (Heartburn Relief, Leader Acid Reducer, Pepcid, Pepcid AC, Pepcid AC Maximum Strength)?
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop using famotidine and call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:
- easy bruising or bleeding;
- fast or pounding heartbeat;
- confusion, hallucinations, seizure;
- numbness or tingly feeling; or
- jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
Less serious side effects may...
Read All Potential Side Effects and See Pictures of Pepcid »
What are the precautions when taking famotidine (Pepcid)?
Before taking famotidine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other H2 blockers such as cimetidine, ranitidine; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: immune system problems, kidney problems, liver problems, lung problems (e.g., asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease-COPD), other stomach problems (e.g., tumors).
Some symptoms may actually be signs of a more serious condition. Tell your doctor immediately if you have: heartburn combined with lightheadedness/sweating/dizziness, chest pain or shoulder/jaw...
Last reviewed on RxList: 7/11/2011
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.
Additional Pepcid Information
Pepcid - User Reviews
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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