A problem that many of us have is this stomach inflammation, gastritis, or acid reflux. This condition occurs after not eating on time, after eating spicy food, and sometimes for no reason at all. So when we go to a doctor at such times, one of the most common medications we get is stomach acid-reducing pills. Today, we are going to talk about one such medication, Famotidine.
What is this medicine called Famotidine?
Simply put, Famotidine is a medicine that reduces the amount of acid produced in your stomach. This helps control your stomach inflammation and acidity. Doctors usually prescribe this medicine for the following conditions:
- Heartburn: Burning sensation in the chest after eating.
- Stomach ulcers: Heal ulcers inside the stomach and prevent new ones from forming.
- Reflux disease: Discomfort caused by stomach acid coming back up into the throat.
- Other medical conditions that cause excess stomach acid production.
In Sri Lanka, this medicine may come under different brand names such as Pepcid and Zantac 360. But they all contain the same active ingredient, Famotidine.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Although famotidine is generally a safe medication, there are a few things you should tell your doctor before using it, as it may not be compatible with certain health conditions.
| Things to tell your doctor | |
|---|---|
| Health status | Description |
| Kidney disease | If you have any kidney-related condition. |
| Liver disease | If you have liver problems. |
| Difficulty swallowing | If you have difficulty swallowing food or medicine. |
| Allergies | If you have allergies to famotidine or other medicines or foods. |
| Pregnancy or planning to have it | If you are pregnant or expecting a baby. |
| Being a breastfeeding mother | If you are a breastfeeding mother. |
How should I use the medicine?
Take this medicine with a glass of water. It is very important to take it exactly as the doctor tells you, in the amount prescribed.
- If it's once a day: If your doctor tells you to take this medicine once a day, it's best to take it before going to bed at night .
- Take it on time: Try to take your medicine at the same time every day if possible. Never take more than the doctor tells you to.
What if you take too much medicine? (Overdosage)
Imagine that you have accidentally taken too much of this medicine. If this happens, do not panic. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital as soon as possible.
Remember, this medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not share this medicine with a friend or family member, even if they have the same symptoms as you.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Do not take a double dose for any reason.
Things to consider when taking medication
There are several things you should pay attention to when using this medicine.
- Be careful with painkillers: Do not use anti-inflammatory medications like Aspirin and Ibuprofen (known to many as Brufen) during this time, as these medications can further irritate the stomach lining and worsen your condition.
- Smoking and alcohol: Smoking and drinking alcohol are not good for the stomach. Stay away from these things as much as possible while taking Famotidine. These can delay the healing of stomach ulcers.
- Vitamin B12: There is a small chance that your body's vitamin B12 levels may decrease when you use Famotidine for a long time. So talk to your doctor about the foods and vitamins you are taking.
Symptoms that require urgent attention!
If you have black, tarry stools , or vomit that looks like coffee grounds , it could be bleeding from a stomach ulcer. If this happens, call your doctor immediately or go to the nearest hospital emergency room (ETU).
Possible side effects
Like any medicine, Famotidine can cause side effects in some people, but most people do not.
| Side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Mental changes | Confusion, seeing or hearing things that are not real (hallucinations). These are very rare conditions. |
| Side effects that are usually common, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Digestive system problems | Constipation or diarrhea. |
| Other | Headache, dizziness. |
If you experience any other discomfort not mentioned in this list, talk to your doctor about it as well.
Take-Home Message
- Famotidine is a medicine that reduces stomach acid and is used to treat conditions such as gastritis and heartburn.
- Before taking this medicine, tell your doctor about any other medical conditions you have (especially kidney disease) and all other medications you are taking.
- Take the medicine at the prescribed time, as the doctor said. If it is once a day, it is better to take it at night before going to bed.
- If you have black tarry stools or vomit that looks like coffee grounds, it is an emergency. Go to the hospital immediately.
- Avoid smoking, alcohol, and painkillers like Brufen while taking the medication.
- If you have any questions or doubts about this medicine, don't be afraid to ask your doctor.
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