PEPCID

Drug Name: PEPCID

PEPCID DESCRIPTION:
FAMOTIDINE - INJECTION (fam-OH-tih-dine)

COMMON PEPCID BRAND NAME(S):
Pepcid

PEPCID SIDE EFFECTS:
Headache, dizziness, constipation, diarrhea, or irritation at the injection site may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: a rapid or pounding heart rate; jaundice (yellowing of eyes/skin, dark urine), diarrhea, mental confusion, depression, vision changes; joint or muscle pain, ringing in the ears. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, breathing trouble. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE PEPCID:
PEPCID: PEPCID is injected into a vein(IV). Use as directed. Do not increase your dose, use this more often than prescribed or stop using this without first consulting your doctor.

PEPCID USES:
PEPCID is used to treat and prevent ulcers, to treat gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD), and to treat conditions associated with excessive acid secretion.

PEPCID PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially: liver disease, kidney disease, alcohol use, any allergies. Cigarette smoking can affect PEPCID. Tell your doctor if you smoke and if you stop or start smoking while taking this medication. Elderly persons may be more sensitive to the effects of this medication. Use cautiously. Before using PEPCID, tell your doctor if you are pregnant. Famotidine is excreted into breast milk. Though there have been no reports (to date) of harm to nursing infants, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

PEPCID DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medications you may use, including: ketoconazole, itraconazole. Oral forms of PEPCID are available in prescription and nonprescription formulations. Do not use both at the same time. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

PEPCID OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include difficulty breathing, fast heartbeat, tremors, vomiting, restlessness, weakness, fatigue, or dizziness.

PEPCID NOTES:
For best results, PEPCID is often used along with lifestyle changes such as stress-reduction programs, exercise and dietary changes. Talk to your health care professional about lifestyle changes you can benefit from. Laboratory tests may be done periodically while using this medication to monitor your progress.

MISSED PEPCID DOSE:
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as remembered; do not use it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

PEPCID STORAGE:
Store in the refrigerator or freezer as directed. If frozen, allow to thaw as directed. An expiration date will be noted on the injection. Properly discard of any unused medication after this date.