Famotidine Tablets 20mg

What is Famotidine?

Famotidine is a medicine used to reduce the amount of acid your stomach produces. It belongs to a group of drugs called H2-receptor antagonists (H2 blockers). Famotidine tablets are typically used to treat acid reflux, heartburn, indigestion, and stomach ulcers. They can also help prevent these symptoms if taken before triggers like food, alcohol, or certain medications. Famotidine is available by prescription in the UK.

How does it work?

Famotidine blocks histamine H2 receptors in the stomach lining, which are responsible for signalling acid production. By reducing acid levels, it helps relieve symptoms like heartburn, indigestion, and pain caused by ulcers. Famotidine works within 1 hour and typically provides relief for up to 12 hours.

How to take Famotidine

Swallow one tablet with water, once daily.
Can be taken with or without food.
If used for prevention, take 30-60 minutes before eating or drinking trigger foods.
Do not exceed the prescribed dose without medical advice.

Who can take Famotidine?

Famotidine is suitable for most adults and children over 12 years old. It may be used short-term for acid-related symptoms or longer-term under medical supervision for ulcers and reflux disease.

Warnings and precautions

There are some important warnings and precautions to consider before taking famotidine:

• Do not take Famotidine if you are allergic to famotidine or other H2 blockers (e.g. ranitidine)
• Seek medical advice if you have difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, or persistent vomiting
• Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have kidney problems — you may need a lower dose
• Long-term use may mask symptoms of serious stomach problems like cancer

Drug interactions

Famotidine can interact with certain medications:

• Ketoconazole and itraconazole - reduced absorption when taken with famotidine
• Atazanavir - reduced effectiveness due to lower stomach acidity
• Rilpivirine - avoid using with famotidine as it may reduce rilpivirine levels
• Antacids - may reduce famotidine absorption; separate doses by at least 2 hours

Always let your pharmacist or doctor know about any medications you are taking before starting famotidine.

Can I take Famotidine while pregnant or breastfeeding?

Famotidine may be used during pregnancy if recommended by a doctor, but other treatments are often preferred first. Small amounts can pass into breast milk, but it is generally considered safe when used at normal doses. Always speak to your GP or midwife before taking Famotidine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Famotidine alternatives

There is another class of medication available to treat heartburn and acid reflux related symptoms called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs):

• Omeprazole capsules
• Lansoprazole capsules
• Lansoprazole orodispersible tablets
• Esomeprazole
• Pantoprazole
• Rabeprazole
• Nexium control

There are also antacid tablets available which help instantly neutralise the excess acid in the stomach, these can also be taken alongside Omeprazole.
Gaviscon is a popular remedy and as well as neutralising excess it forms a raft on top of the stomach helping protect the oesophagus, this can also be taken alongside Omeprazole.

Famotidine vs Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

Famotidine is an H2 blocker, while medicines like omeprazole and lansoprazole are PPIs. Both reduce stomach acid but work differently:

• Famotidine works faster but may not be as long-lasting or potent as PPIs
• PPIs are usually more effective for severe or long-term acid reflux or ulcers
• Famotidine is a good alternative if PPIs can cause interaction, side effects or aren't well tolerated

More information

For more information about Famotidine, including side effects and detailed usage instructions, please refer to the Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC).

For more information about acid reflux and heartburn, visit the NHS website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take Famotidine with painkillers?

Yes, famotidine can help reduce stomach irritation caused by NSAIDs like ibuprofen. However, always check with a pharmacist first if you use them regularly.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Famotidine?

Yes, but alcohol can worsen acid reflux and stomach irritation, so it's best to drink in moderation while taking famotidine.

How long does Famotidine take to work?

Famotidine usually starts working within 1 hour and can relieve symptoms for 10-12 hours. For prevention, take it 30-60 minutes before meals.

Do I need a prescription for Famotidine 20mg?

Yes. In the UK, Famotidine 20mg tablets are a prescription-only medicine. An online consultation with a prescriber is required before supply.