Pepcid vs. Zantac

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Pepcid (famotidine) and Zantac (ranitidine hydrochloride) are H2-blockers used to treat and prevent recurrence of stomach and duodenal ulcers. Pepcid is also useful in managing heartburn, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.

Pepcid and Zantac are available over-the-counter (OTC) and in generic form.

Common side effects of Pepcid include:

• constipation,
• diarrhea,
• fatigue,
• dizziness,
• weakness,
• mood changes,
• headache,
• insomnia,
• muscle pain or cramps,
• joint pain,
• dry mouth,
• nausea, or
• vomiting.

Common side effects of Zantac include:

• constipation,
• diarrhea,
• fatigue,
• headache (may be severe),
• drowsiness,
• dizziness,
• sleep problems (insomnia),
• decreased sex drive,
• impotence,
• difficulty having an orgasm,
• muscle pain,
• stomach pain,
• nausea,
• vomiting,
• diarrhea,
• constipation,
• or swollen or tender breasts (in men).

Pepcid (famotidine) is an H2-blocker used to treat and prevent recurrence of stomach and duodenal ulcers. Pepcid is also useful in managing heartburn, gastroesophageal reflux disease and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Pepcid is available as a generic drug.

Zantac (ranitidine hydrochloride) is a H2 (histamine-2) receptor blocker used for treating and preventing ulcers in the duodenum and stomach. Zantac is also used for treating:

• heartburn,
• erosive esophagitis,
• and Zollinger Ellison syndrome.

Pepcid may interact with atazanavir, itraconazole, ketoconazole, or aspirin or other NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Tell your doctor all medications and supplements you use.

Zantac may interact with ketoconazole, atazanavir, and blood thinners such as warfarin.

Zantac may also interact with triazolam, procainamide, riazolam, midazolam, glipizide, delavirdine, and gefitinib.

Heartburn? Foods to Eat, Foods to Avoid Slideshow

Digestive Disease Myths Slideshow Pictures

Take the GERD Quiz

Pepcid (famotidine) dosage depends on the condition being treated.

Zantac is available in tablet, syrup, and injectable formulations.

• adults and children 12 years and over:
  • to relieve symptoms, swallow 1 tablet with a glass of water
  • to prevent symptoms, swallow 1 tablet with a glass of water 30 to 60 minutes before eating food or drinking beverages that cause heartburn
  • can be used up to twice daily (do not take more than 2 tablets in 24 hours)
• children under 12 years: ask a doctor

Other Information

• do not use if printed foil under bottle cap is open or torn (bottles)
• do not use if individual blister unit is open or torn (blisters)
• do not use if individual foil packet is open or torn (pouch)
• store at 20°-25°C (68°-77°F)
• avoid excessive heat or humidity
• this product is sodium and sugar free