Pepcid AC Easy Swallow

Uses of Pepcid AC Easy Swallow

Pepcid is a histamine-2 blocker that works by decreasing the amount of acid the stomach produces. Pepcid is used to treat and prevent ulcers in the stomach and intestines. It also treats conditions in which the stomach produces too much acid, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.

Precautions and Warnings

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 (such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease-COPD), other stomach problems (such as tumors).

Some symptoms may actually be signs of a more serious condition. Get medical help right away if you have: heartburn with lightheadedness/sweating/dizziness, chest/jaw/arm/shoulder pain (especially with shortness of breath, unusual sweating), unexplained weight loss.

In addition, before you self-treat with this medication, get medical help right away if you have any of these signs of a serious condition: trouble/pain swallowing food, bloody vomit, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, bloody/black stools, heartburn for over 3 months, frequent chest pain, frequent wheezing (especially with heartburn), nausea/vomiting, stomach pain.

Do not use to treat children younger than 12 unless directed by the doctor.

Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially mental/mood changes (such as confusion), seizure, or unusual tiredness.

During pregnancy, famotidine should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

This drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Dosage

Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once or twice daily. If you are taking this medication once daily, it is usually taken right before bedtime.

The dosage and length of treatment are based on your medical condition and response to treatment. In children, dosage may also be based on body weight. You may take other medications (such as antacids) for your condition as recommended by your doctor. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

Take this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day. Do not increase your dose or take it more often than prescribed. Do not stop taking this medication without your doctor’s approval because this may delay healing of the ulcer.

If you are using nonprescription famotidine for self-treatment of acid indigestion or heartburn, take 1 tablet by mouth with a glass of water as needed. To prevent heartburn, take 1 tablet by mouth with a glass of water 15-60 minutes before eating food or drinking beverages that cause heartburn. Do not use more than 2 tablets in 24 hours unless directed by your doctor. Do not take for more than 14 days in a row without talking with your doctor.

Side Effects

Common side effects:

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