Famotidine is a medication classified as a histamine H2-receptor antagonist, often referred to as an H2 blocker. It works by decreasing the amount of acid produced in the stomach. It is commonly used to treat and prevent various conditions involving excess stomach acid, including heartburn, acid indigestion, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and ulcers of the stomach and intestines. Famotidine can be obtained over-the-counter (OTC) in lower strengths for self-treatment of occasional heartburn, and in higher strengths by prescription from a healthcare provider for more serious or chronic conditions. It is available in various forms, including tablets and oral suspensions.
According to DrugBank, Famotidine was developed by Yamanouchi Pharmaceutical Co. and was first approved for medical use in the United States in 1986. It is commonly known by its brand name, Pepcid.
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Known interactions
Category rule: supplement × medication
Note
Some supplements change how the body processes medications (absorption, liver enzymes, or additive effects).
Specific pairs are checked against a licensed drug database and shown with their own severity. Always confirm with your provider or pharmacist.
Category rule: vitamin × medication
Note
Certain vitamins interact with specific medications (e.g., vitamin K with blood thinners).
Specific pairs are checked against a licensed source; confirm with your provider.
Frequently asked
Sources referenced
["NIH Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS)", "MedlinePlus (National Library of Medicine)", "PubChem (National Center for Biotechnology Information)", "DrugBank", "FDA label (U.S. Food and Drug Administration)", "Cochrane Library"]
Stackwise compiles summaries from publicly available scientific and regulatory references. Always verify important decisions with a licensed clinician.
Related compounds
Others in the medication category or studied for the same goals.