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Medication guide

Famotidine

Relieves or prevents occasional acid-related heartburn.

Check the name, strength and form on your own prescription or package.

Brand
Pepcid
Form
20 mg oral tablet
Guidance checked
2026-09-08

About this medication

Relieves or prevents occasional acid-related heartburn.

How to use it

For the referenced nonprescription product, take one tablet; maximum two in 24 hours. Do not continue beyond two weeks without advice.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Seek individual pregnancy and breastfeeding advice.

Before you use it

Kidney impairment may require adjustment. Avoid allergy to H2 blockers; investigate new or persistent symptoms.

Possible side effects

Headache, diarrhoea or constipation.

When to get help

Chest pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, swallowing problems or unexplained weight loss need assessment.

Other medicines and products

Acid suppression can reduce absorption of some antifungals and cancer medicines; avoid duplicate H2 blockers.

Missed doses, storage and accidental exposure

Follow your own product’s missed-dose instructions. If you are unsure, ask the Care365 clinical team before taking an extra dose. Contraceptives, injections and modified-release medicines may need a specific plan.

Keep the original packaging and follow its storage, expiry and disposal instructions. Keep medicines away from children and pets. Ask about refrigeration, after-opening limits and safe sharps disposal when relevant.

For suspected overdose or accidental swallowing, contact poison control or urgent medical care promptly. Call emergency services for breathing difficulty, collapse or a seizure.

References and product information

Sources checked .

Sources checked 2026-09-08. Safety sections are highlights; consult the full product information for complete warnings and instructions.

Check the Canadian Drug Product Database by product name or DIN for current product information.

These practical points come from the Pharmasist patient handout for the same product monograph cited by this guide.

This is a plain-language guide, not the complete monograph. Match the name, strength and form on your package before using product-specific directions.

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