Meta Information
ID:famotidine
Name:Famotidine
Schema Version:1.5
Alternate Names
- Pepcid
- Zantac 360
Active Compound
famotidine
Intervention Type
therapeutic_agent
Delivery
Route:
oral
Scope:
- systemic
Regulatory Status
- us:otc_drug
- us:rx_drug
- eu:rx_drug
Indication
Focus:
disease_treatment
Description:
Treatment and prevention of acid-related gastrointestinal conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcers, and heartburn.
Typical Protocol
- For treating GERD or ulcers, 20-40 mg is typically taken once or twice daily.
- For preventing or treating heartburn, 10-20 mg is taken as needed 15-60 minutes before meals.
Expected Cost Mean
Low Cost:
5
High Cost:
20
Cost Type:
monthly
Description:
Generic versions are very affordable; prescription use is often covered by insurance.
Summary
Famotidine is a histamine H2-receptor antagonist that works by selectively blocking H2 receptors on parietal cells in the stomach, which reduces gastric acid secretion. This action is highly effective for treating and preventing conditions caused by excess stomach acid, such as peptic ulcers and GERD, allowing esophageal and stomach tissue to heal.
Purpose
Reduces stomach acid to treat GERD and ulcers.
Card Summary
A histamine H2 blocker used to treat and prevent ulcers and acid reflux by decreasing stomach acid production.
Drug Class
h2_receptor_antagonist
Drugs In Class
Empty Array
Impact
Score:
7.5
Justification:
Highly effective for treating and managing specific acid-related gastrointestinal diseases.
Evidence
Grade:
A
Score:
9.5
Justification:
Extensive, multi-decade evidence from numerous large human RCTs for its approved indications.
Safety
Score:
3.5
Justification:
Generally well-tolerated with a long safety record; available over-the-counter.
Flags
- Long-term use may be associated with vitamin B12 deficiency.
- Dose adjustment may be required for individuals with impaired kidney function.
- Can mask symptoms of more serious conditions like stomach cancer; consult a doctor for persistent symptoms.
- Rarely, can cause confusion or delirium, particularly in the elderly or those with renal impairment.
Verdict
Highly effective and safe for treating acid-related gastrointestinal disorders.
Qualifier
scope: systemic, focused on disease treatment
Created
2026-05-07T01:08:45.665371Z
Ai Model
Gemini 2.5 Pro (High)
Non Healthspan
True