What do Pepcid products treat?
Pepcid products are commonly used to prevent and treat heartburn caused by acid indigestion and upset stomach. The main active ingredient in Pepcid is famotidine, which belongs to a class of medicines known as H2 blockers. Famotidine works by reducing the amount of acid made in the stomach, helping relieve symptoms caused by too much stomach acid. These products start to relieve heartburn within 15 to 30 minutes.
Pepcid Complete products also contain the antacids calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide. The addition of the antacid helps give faster relief from heartburn symptoms because the antacids start to neutralize stomach acid within seconds.
You can take Pepcid products with or without food. If you are using it to prevent symptoms, take it 10 to 60 minutes before foods or drinks that give you heartburn.
Pepcid products may be used for adults and children as young as 12 years old.
What should I know before using Pepcid products?
Do not take Pepcid products if you have trouble swallowing food, vomit with blood, or have black or tarry poop. These may be signs of a more serious condition and you should see a healthcare provider.
Symptoms of a heart attack may be mistaken for heartburn. Consult a healthcare provider if you have any of the following symptoms.
- Chest pain or pressure
- Fast or abnormal heartbeat
- Trouble breathing
- Pain in your back, jaw, throat, or arm
- Sweating, upset stomach, vomiting, or dizziness
If you have kidney problems, you may not be able to metabolize Pepcid products properly. This can lead to higher than normal levels of the medicine in your blood and an increased risk of side effects including confusion, feeling uneasy or disoriented, trouble thinking clearly, hallucinations, seizures, and tiredness. A healthcare provider can help you determine which product and dose is safe for you.
There may be side effects, additional warnings, and interactions with other medicines that are not listed here. These may vary depending on the combination of ingredients in the specific Pepcid product you are using. Always check the label before taking any Pepcid product. Talk to a pharmacist or healthcare provider about your health conditions and other medicines to help determine which Pepcid products are safe for you.
Which Pepcid product is right for my symptoms?
Use the table(s) below to help you find the best product to treat your symptoms
| Product | Original Strength Pepcid AC |
| Ingredients | Famotidine 10 mg |
| Uses | Heartburn prevention and symptom relief |
| Dosage Forms | Oral tablets |
| Product | Maximum Strength Pepcid AC |
| Ingredients | Famotidine 20 mg |
| Uses | Heartburn prevention and symptom relief |
| Dosage Forms | Oral tablets |
| Product | Pepcid Complete Pepcid Complete ON-THE-GO |
| Ingredients | Famotidine 10 mg Calcium carbonate 800 mg Magnesium hydroxide 165 mg |
| Uses | Heartburn symptom relief |
| Dosage Forms | Chewable tablets |