Famotidine

Other Names: Pepcid

Commonly Prescribed For: Famotidine is prescribed for conditions affecting the stomach such as duodenal ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or Zollinger Ellison Syndrome (a condition where the stomach produces excess stomach acid). It can be used to treat and also to prevent duodenal ulcers.

How to Take It: For the treatment of duodenal ulcers, Famotidine is usually taken in the form of a 40 mg tablet once per day before bed. It is normal for symptoms to improve within four weeks so there would be no need to take this medication for longer than six to eight weeks. For treatment of GERD, the dosage is usually 10-20mg per day for up to six weeks approximately. Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is treated by taking 20mg every six hours.

How It Works: Famotidine works by reducing the production of acid in the stomach. It can reduce the pain associated with duodenal ulcers and has been attributed with preventing ulcers form recurring if taken for long periods.

Some Side Effects: Side effects of Famotidine can include nausea, vomiting, headaches, muscle pain, diarrhea, weakness, fatigue, and constipation. More severe side effects can include palpitations; depression; confusion; anemia hair loss; bleeding or bruising easily; or jaundice.