Generic Name: FAMOTIDINE - ORAL
Pronounced: (fam-OH-tih-dine)

Pepcid Oral Precautions

Before taking famotidine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other acid blockers (e.g., 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.

If you have any of the following health problems, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this medication:

• kidney problems
• liver problems
• other stomach problems (e.g., tumors)

Some symptoms may actually be signs of a more serious condition. Tell your doctor immediately if you have:

• chest pain or shoulder/jaw pain (especially with trouble breathing)
• heartburn for longer than 3 months
• heartburn combined with lightheadedness/sweating/dizziness
• nausea/vomiting
• pain spreading to arms/neck/shoulders
• persistent stomach pain
• black stools
• difficult/painful swallowing
• unexplained weight loss
• vomit that is bloody or looks like coffee grounds

This chewable form of this medication contains aspartame. If you have phenylketonuria (PKU) or any other condition that requires you to restrict your intake of aspartame (or phenylalanine), consult your doctor or pharmacist regarding the safe use of this medication.

Do not use this medication in children younger than 12 unless directed by the doctor.

During pregnancy, this medication should only be used if clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication.

This drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Pepcid Oral Side Effects

Headache, dizziness, constipation or diarrhea may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur:

• easy bruising/bleeding
• fast/slow/irregular heartbeat
• signs of infection (e.g., fever, persistent sore throat, cough)
• mental/mood changes (e.g., restlessness, confusion, depression, hallucinations)
• seizure

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include:

• rash
• itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
• severe dizziness
• trouble breathing

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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