Famotidine (famotidine)
My medication guide
Fairview Pharmacy. Call 601-544-4871.
My prescribed doseYour pharmacist or doctor fills this in.
What does famotidine do?
- It is an H2 blocker that lowers stomach acid. OTC products prevent or relieve heartburn; prescription products also treat conditions such as ulcers and reflux.
Can I keep taking the OTC product every day?
- Follow its label. Stop self-treatment and ask a clinician if symptoms continue or worsen, or you need it for more than 14 days.
Does kidney disease matter?
- Yes. Check with a clinician before OTC use. Prescription doses or spacing may need adjustment when kidney function is reduced.
When should I take it?
- Use your own prescription or package schedule. OTC prevention is taken before a food or drink that triggers heartburn; check the product's stated interval. Prescription treatment can use a different schedule and duration. Do not copy OTC directions onto a prescription plan. MedlinePlus
What if I miss a scheduled dose?
- Take it when remembered unless the next dose is almost due; then skip it. Do not double up. An as-needed OTC product does not need a catch-up dose when you have no symptoms. Stay within the package limit. MedlinePlus
Which symptoms should not be treated as ordinary heartburn?
- Trouble or pain swallowing, vomiting blood, or black or bloody stools needs medical assessment. Chest pain with shortness of breath, sweating or pain spreading to the arm or neck may be an emergency; seek emergency help rather than trying another acid reducer. OTC label, warnings
What should my pharmacist check?
- Share all medicines and avoid adding another acid reducer without advice. Lower stomach acid can change how some prescription medicines are absorbed. Report new confusion or hallucinations promptly, especially in an older person or someone with kidney disease. Prescription label, warnings and interactions
Choose the right instructions
- Ask Fairview to check whether you have an OTC or prescription product. Prescription care is arranged through the pharmacy, not the OTC online shop. This guide is general education.