What is the most important information I should know about Pepcid?

• Do not stop taking this medication without first talking to your doctor. It may take up to 8 weeks for an ulcer to heal.
• Do not take antacids within 1 hour of taking Pepcid. Antacids may decrease the effectiveness of Pepcid.

What is Pepcid?

• Pepcid is in a class of drugs called histamine receptor antagonists. Pepcid works by decreasing the amount of acid the stomach produces.
• Pepcid is used to treat and prevent ulcers in the stomach and intestines. Pepcid is also used to treat conditions in which the stomach produces too much acid and conditions in which acid comes up into the esophagus and causes heartburn, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
• Pepcid may also be used for conditions other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Pepcid?

• Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have
  • kidney disease; or
  • liver disease;
  • trouble or pain swallowing food;
  • vomiting with blood; or
  • bloody or black stools.
• You may not be able to take Pepcid, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
• The Pepcid RPD orally disintegrating tablets contain 1.05 mg phenylalanine per 20 mg tablet and 2.10 mg phenylalanine per 40 mg oral tablet. Individuals with phenylketonuria may need to monitor their intake of this additive.
• Pepcid is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take Pepcid without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
• Pepcid passes into breast milk. It is not known whether Pepcid will harm a nursing infant. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Pepcid?

• Take Pepcid exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
• Take each oral dose with a full glass of water.
• Chew the chewable tablets thoroughly before swallowing.
• Administration with liquid is not necessary for the Pepcid RPD orally disintegrating tablets. Just prior to taking a dose, peel open the blister pack with dry hands and place the tablet on the tongue, where it will dissolve and be swallowed with the saliva.
• Shake the Pepcid suspension vigorously for 5 to 10 seconds before measuring a dose. To ensure that you get the correct dose, use a dose-measuring cup or spoon, not a regular table spoon to measure a dose of the suspension. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.
• Over-the-counter Pepcid is usually taken 15 minutes before consuming heartburn-inducing foods or beverages.
• Do not stop taking this medication without first talking to your doctor. It may take up to 8 weeks for an ulcer to heal.
• Store Pepcid at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

What happens if I overdose?

• Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
• Symptoms of a Pepcid overdose include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, increased saliva production, difficulty breathing, and a fast heartbeat.

What should I avoid while taking Pepcid?

• There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activities while taking Pepcid unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of Pepcid?

• If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Pepcid and contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical treatment.
  • an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
  • easy or unusual bruising or bleeding;
  • bleeding gums;
  • irregular heartbeat;
  • yellowing of the skin or eyes; or
  • a rash.
• Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Pepcid and talk to your doctor if you experience
  • dizziness;
  • headache; or
  • diarrhea, nausea, or constipation.
• Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect Pepcid?

• Do not take antacids within 1 hour of taking Pepcid. Antacids may decrease the effectiveness of Pepcid.
• Pepcid may affect the actions of other medications by changing the acidity of the stomach. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines during treatment with Pepcid, including herbal products.