About famotidine
Histamine-2 receptor blocker
Used for
- Treats stomach and duodenal ulcers and reflux disease
- Reduces stomach acid when oral treatment is unsuitable
- Prevents stress-related ulcers in hospital settings
Usual adult dose
Usually 20 mg intravenously every 12 hours; dose may be adjusted for kidney function and condition.
Usual dose in children
For children 1 year and older: typically 0.25 mg/kg intravenously every 12 hours; specialist dosing is required.
Common side effects
- Headache or dizziness
- Diarrhoea or constipation
- Injection-site reactions
- Confusion, especially in older adults or kidney impairment
Important warnings
- Kidney impairment may require a lower dose or longer dosing interval.
- Rarely, serious allergic reactions or heart rhythm problems occur.
- Intravenous famotidine is generally used when oral treatment is not possible.
- Use only by a healthcare professional after dilution as directed.
Pregnancy
Available evidence has not shown a clear increase in birth defects; use when clinically needed.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts may enter breast milk; famotidine is generally considered compatible with breastfeeding.
Interactions
- May reduce absorption of medicines needing stomach acidity, such as some azole antifungals.
- Probenecid may increase famotidine levels.
- Medicines that affect kidney function may alter famotidine clearance.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.