Famotidine – H2 receptor antagonist for acid-related digestive conditions.
Get expert medical advice and same-day prescriptions from qualified UK doctors through our secure online consultation platform.
- Professional online consultation and prescription
- Same-day service when clinically appropriate
- Secure delivery to your chosen pharmacy
Secure Telehealth Platform Trusted by Over 150,000 Patients
What is Famotidine?
Famotidine provides effective acid reduction for heartburn, ulcers, and acid reflux with generally fewer long-term risks and drug interactions compared to proton pump inhibitors. Its good safety profile makes it particularly suitable for patients who need acid suppression but want to avoid the potential complications of stronger acid-blocking medications.
Book an online consultation if you’re experiencing persistent heartburn, acid reflux, stomach pain that may indicate ulcers, or need alternatives to proton pump inhibitors. Our GPs can assess your digestive symptoms and determine if Famotidine or other acid-blocking treatments are appropriate for your specific condition.
What is Famotidine used for?
- Heartburn and acid reflux (GERD)
- Stomach and duodenal ulcers
- Prevention of stress ulcers
- Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
- Dyspepsia (indigestion)
- NSAID-associated ulcer prevention
- H. pylori eradication (as part of combination therapy)
How does Famotidine work?
An H2 receptor antagonist that blocks histamine-2 receptors in the stomach lining, reducing the production of stomach acid. This allows damaged tissue to heal and prevents further acid-related damage.
Dosage and Administration
Adults
Heartburn: 20mg twice daily or 40mg at bedtime. Ulcers: 40mg once daily (usually at bedtime) for 4-8 weeks. Take with or without food.
Children
Weight-based dosing required—specialist supervision for children under 12 years.
Important Notes
- Can be taken with or without food.
- For heartburn prevention, take 15-60 minutes before meals.
- Bedtime dosing often most effective for nighttime symptoms.
- Complete prescribed course even if symptoms improve.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Dry mouth
Serious Side Effects
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Severe allergic reactions
- Blood disorders (rare)
- Liver problems (rare)
- Confusion (especially in elderly)
- Heart rhythm changes (rare)
- Pneumonia (with long-term use)
Important Warnings
- Tell your GP if you have kidney problems—dose adjustment may be needed.
- May mask symptoms of stomach cancer—report persistent symptoms.
- Long-term use may increase infection risk and affect vitamin B12 absorption.
- Use caution in elderly patients—increased risk of confusion and falls.
- May interact with certain HIV medications and antifungals.
Drug Interactions
Tell your GP if you're taking any of the following medications:
- Ketoconazole and itraconazole—reduced absorption, take 2 hours apart.
- Atazanavir and other HIV protease inhibitors—may reduce their absorption.
- Iron supplements—may reduce iron absorption.
- Warfarin—may slightly enhance anticoagulant effects.
- Generally fewer interactions than omeprazole and other PPIs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Famotidine different from omeprazole (PPI)?
Famotidine (H2 blocker) is less potent but has fewer long-term risks and drug interactions than PPIs. It's often preferred for mild-moderate acid problems or when PPIs aren't suitable.
Can I take Famotidine long-term?
While generally safer for long-term use than PPIs, prolonged use should be monitored as it may increase infection risk and affect vitamin absorption.
Should I take Famotidine with food?
It can be taken with or without food. For prevention, taking it before meals may be more effective for meal-related symptoms.
How quickly does Famotidine work?
Symptom relief typically begins within 1 hour, with peak effects at 1-3 hours. For ulcer healing, improvement may take several weeks.
Medically Reviewed by: Mohammed Hassan - Independent Prescriber
Last Updated: 2025-01-14