Why is this medication prescribed?

Famotidine injection is prescribed primarily for the short-term treatment of active duodenal ulcers and active benign gastric ulcers. It is also used for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), including erosive or ulcerative GERD, and for the maintenance therapy of erosive or ulcerative GERD. Additionally, it can be used to treat pathological hypersecretory conditions (such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome) and to prevent stress ulceration in seriously ill patients.

Famotidine injection works by reducing the production of stomach acid, thereby helping to heal ulcers and alleviate symptoms associated with GERD and other conditions related to excessive stomach acid production.

How should this medicine be used?

As for how it should be used:

• Famotidine injection is typically administered intravenously (IV) or intramuscularly (IM) under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
• The dosage and frequency of administration depend on the condition being treated, the severity of symptoms, and the patient’s response to treatment.
• It is important to follow the dosage instructions provided by the healthcare provider and not to exceed the prescribed dose.
• Famotidine injection may be given as a single dose or divided into multiple doses throughout the day.
• The injection site should be clean and sterile to reduce the risk of infection.
• If you have any questions or concerns about the administration of Famotidine injection, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

It’s crucial to use Famotidine injection exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider and to not stop using it abruptly without consulting them, as doing so could worsen your condition or lead to rebound symptoms.

Other uses for this medicine

Famotidine injection may also be prescribed for other off-label uses, such as:

• Treatment of upper gastrointestinal bleeding
• Prevention of aspiration pneumonia
• Management of peptic ulcer disease in patients unable to take oral medications
• Reduction of gastric acid secretion during anesthesia or surgery

What special precautions should I follow?

When using Famotidine injection, there are several special precautions to keep in mind:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies to famotidine or any other medications. Also, inform them about any other allergies you may have, such as to foods, preservatives, or dyes.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of using Famotidine injection with your healthcare provider. It is essential to weigh the potential benefits to the mother against the potential risks to the fetus or infant.
• Medical conditions: Inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you have, especially kidney problems or liver disease. Adjustments to the dosage or special monitoring may be necessary in these cases.
• Interactions with other medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as any dietary supplements or herbal remedies. Famotidine injection may interact with certain medications, such as antacids, sucralfate, and certain antibiotics, affecting their effectiveness.
• Adverse reactions: Famotidine injection may cause side effects such as headache, dizziness, constipation, diarrhea, or changes in mood or behavior. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
• Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may need to monitor your response to Famotidine injection regularly, especially if you are using it for an extended period. This may involve laboratory tests to assess kidney function, liver function, and electrolyte levels.

By following these precautions and guidelines, you can use Famotidine injection safely and effectively under the supervision of your healthcare provider.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Special Dietary Instructions:

• Famotidine injection can be taken with or without food. However, if you experience gastrointestinal discomfort, taking it with food may help alleviate symptoms.
• Avoid consuming excessive amounts of alcohol, as it can increase the risk of stomach irritation and gastrointestinal bleeding.
• If you have dietary restrictions or concerns about specific foods interacting with Famotidine injection, discuss them with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• If you miss a dose of Famotidine injection, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.
• If you are unsure about what to do, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Famotidine injection, like any medication, can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Some common side effects of Famotidine injection may include:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fatigue
• Muscle pain
• Rash or itching
• Changes in mood or behavior

These side effects are usually mild and may go away on their own as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if any of these side effects persist or worsen, it is important to inform your healthcare provider.

In rare cases, Famotidine injection may cause more serious side effects that require medical attention. These may include:

• Allergic reactions, such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat; difficulty breathing; or severe rash
• Confusion or hallucinations
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Severe stomach pain
• Signs of liver problems, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or persistent nausea and vomiting
• Signs of kidney problems, such as decreased urine output or swelling of the ankles or feet

If you experience any of these serious side effects, seek medical attention immediately. It’s important to note that this list may not include all possible side effects of Famotidine injection. If you have concerns about side effects or experience any symptoms that are concerning to you, consult your healthcare provider for advice.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal:

• Store Famotidine injection at room temperature, away from light and moisture.
• Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not freeze the medication.
• Discard any unused portion of the medication properly according to local regulations or as instructed by your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
• Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard Famotidine injection when it is expired or no longer needed.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an overdose or emergency situation related to Famotidine injection, contact your local emergency services (such as 911 in the United States) or poison control center immediately. Symptoms of an overdose may include confusion, rapid or irregular heartbeat, severe dizziness, fainting, or difficulty breathing.

What other information should I know?

• Follow all instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist regarding the use of Famotidine injection.
• Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as any dietary supplements or herbal remedies, to avoid potential interactions.
• Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring and follow-up.
• Keep a list of all medications you are taking and share it with your healthcare provider and pharmacist.
• Famotidine injection is intended for use under the supervision of a healthcare professional and should not be self-administered without proper instruction.
• Famotidine injection is a prescription medication and should only be used as directed by your healthcare provider. Do not share it with others or use it for any condition other than the one for which it was prescribed.

By following these guidelines and instructions, you can ensure the safe and effective use of Famotidine injection. If you have any questions or concerns, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for further guidance.