Famotidine

Medically Reviewed by Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Jun 27, 2022

Directions


How should I take famotidine (Pepcid AC)?

Take famotidine as directed by your physician and/or pharmacist. The prescription medicine comes as a tablet and liquid suspension. It is taken by mouth, usually once a day at bedtime. Over-the-counter famotidine is available as a tablet, chewable tablet, and capsule. It is to be taken by mouth once or twice a day. 

If you are taking OTC famotidine to prevent heartburn symptoms, take it 15 to 60 minutes before eating or drinking foods or drinks that usually cause symptoms. Swallow the tablets and capsules whole with a glass of water. Shake famotidine liquid well for a few seconds before taking it. Chew the chewable tablets completely before swallowing them with water.

Follow the directions on your prescription label or package carefully. Take famotidine strictly as advised. Do not take more or less of this medicine or take it more often or for longer than prescribed. 

Do not take more than two over-the-counter (OTC) famotidine tablets, chewable tablets, or capsules in 24 hours. Do not take OTC famotidine for more than 2 weeks without talking to your doctor first. If your symptoms of sour stomach, acid indigestion, or heartburn do not get better after a full course of OTC famotidine (2 weeks), stop taking the medicine and seek medical care.  

Missed dose: If you take famotidine on a regular dosing schedule and forget to take a dose, take your medicine as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, skip the forgotten dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not take an extra dose to make up for the missed dose.

Storage: Store famotidine in a tightly closed container at room temperature (between 15-30° C or 59-86° F) away from moisture, heat, and direct light. Keep all medications out of reach of children and pets. Do not freeze famotidine liquid. Throw away any unused famotidine liquid after 30 days. 

Unused medicine: Unneeded or expired famotidine should be disposed of so that pets, children, and others cannot consume them. Do not flush the medication down the toilet. The best way to dispose of your medication is through a medicine take-back program - ask your local pharmacy about such programs in your community. Learn more about proper medication disposal

NOTE: This sheet is a summary and does not constitute medical advice. It may not contain all possible famotidine information. If you have questions about famotidine, talk to your pharmacist or health care provider for more information.


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