Famotack 40mg Tab

Overview

Famotack 40 mg Tablet contains Famotidine, an H2-receptor antagonist manufactured by Square Pharmaceuticals PLC. Famotidine competitively inhibits histamine H2 receptors on the gastric parietal cells, suppressing both basal and meal-stimulated acid secretion. It is approximately 20–50 times more potent than cimetidine and significantly more potent than ranitidine on a weight basis. It is used for peptic ulcer disease (gastric and duodenal), gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD/GERD), Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, and prevention of NSAID-induced gastropathy.

Dosage and Administration

Adults: 40 mg at bedtime or 20 mg twice daily for peptic ulcer (4–8 weeks); GORD: 20–40 mg twice daily; maintenance: 20 mg at bedtime. OTC use: 10–20 mg for heartburn relief. Reduce dose in renal impairment.

Interaction

Antacids may reduce famotidine absorption if taken simultaneously — take 1–2 hours apart. Famotidine reduces absorption of drugs requiring acid (ketoconazole, itraconazole, atazanavir, dasatinib). Unlike cimetidine, famotidine has minimal CYP450 interactions.

Contraindications

Contraindicated in known hypersensitivity to famotidine or other H2 antagonists.

Side Effects

Generally well tolerated. Headache, dizziness, constipation, and diarrhoea. Rarely, confusion (in elderly, especially with renal impairment), thrombocytopaenia, and elevated liver enzymes.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Generally considered safe in pregnancy; famotidine is often preferred over cimetidine due to minimal anti-androgenic effect. Compatible with breastfeeding at therapeutic doses.

Precautions and Warnings

Long-term acid suppression may affect absorption of calcium, iron, Vitamin B12, and magnesium. Prolonged use may be associated with enteric infections. Reduce dose in renal impairment.

Storage Conditions

Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place. Keep out of the reach of children.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is famotidine preferred over cimetidine?
Famotidine has much fewer drug interactions than cimetidine (which is a potent CYP450 inhibitor) and does not cause the anti-androgenic side effects (gynaecomastia, impotence) associated with cimetidine, making it safer for long-term use and in patients on multiple medications.

How does famotidine differ from proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like omeprazole?
Famotidine blocks H2 receptors to reduce histamine-stimulated acid secretion, while PPIs irreversibly block the proton pump to provide more complete acid suppression; PPIs are generally more effective for oesophagitis and erosive GORD, while H2 blockers work faster for on-demand heartburn relief.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Please consult a registered physician before taking any medication.