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What Is Famotidine?

Famotidine is a medicine that reduces the amount of acid the stomach makes. It belongs to a group of medicines called histamine-2 blockers. Prescription forms treat conditions such as ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease, while nonprescription forms treat or prevent certain types of heartburn.

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What Is Famotidine?

Famotidine is a medicine that reduces the amount of acid the stomach makes. It belongs to a group of medicines called histamine-2 blockers. Prescription forms treat conditions such as ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease, while nonprescription forms treat or prevent certain types of heartburn.

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What Is Famotidine Used For?

Prescription famotidine treats stomach or small intestine ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease. It can also treat conditions that cause the stomach to produce too much acid. Nonprescription famotidine treats or prevents heartburn linked to acid indigestion or sour stomach.

How Does Famotidine Work?

Famotidine blocks histamine-2 receptors in the stomach. This reduces acid production and gives irritated tissue a chance to heal. It does not work in the same way as an antacid, which neutralizes acid already in the stomach.

How Is Famotidine Taken?

Famotidine is available in prescription and nonprescription forms taken by mouth. The dose and schedule depend on the condition being treated and the product used. A clinician may adjust the dose for someone with kidney problems.

What Are the Side Effects and Precautions?

Headache, dizziness, constipation, and diarrhea can occur. Tell a clinician about kidney disease and other medicines before taking famotidine. Seek medical help for signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling or difficulty breathing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Famotidine

Is famotidine available without a prescription?

Yes. Certain famotidine products are sold without a prescription for acid indigestion and heartburn. Follow the directions on the specific product.

Can famotidine prevent heartburn from food?

Nonprescription famotidine can be taken before foods or drinks that trigger heartburn. Check the package for the recommended timing and dose.

Is famotidine an antacid?

No. Famotidine reduces acid production, while antacids neutralize acid already present in the stomach.

Do people with kidney disease need a different dose?

They may. A clinician can assess kidney function and determine an appropriate dose.

References

Famotidine. MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a687011.html. Date Accessed October 6, 2026.

Famotidine. StatPearls (NCBI Bookshelf). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534778/. Date Accessed October 6, 2026.

Famotidine (oral route) - Side effects & dosage. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/famotidine-oral-route/description/drg-20072972. Date Accessed October 6, 2026.

FAMOTIDINE tablet, film coated. DailyMed (National Library of Medicine). https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/lookup.cfm?setid=f175822d-7ca4-fa33-e053-2995a90ac310. Date Accessed October 6, 2026.

H2 blockers. MedlinePlus. https://www.medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000382.htm. Date Accessed October 6, 2026.