Famotidine

Acid reducer (H2 blocker)
ALSO SOLD WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION

Famotidine is a acid reducer (H2 blocker) found in 10 medicines sold in India, such as Famocid 40, Famocid 20, Famotin 40. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Reduces stomach acid to treat acidity, reflux and ulcers.

How it works

An H2 blocker that reduces stomach acid, less strongly than PPIs; used for heartburn, ulcers and with NSAIDs.

How to take it

Usually 20 to 40 mg once or twice a day; can be taken just before meals or at bedtime.

Common side effects

  • Headache
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhoea
  • Dizziness

Get medical help straight away if

  • Confusion (older people or kidney disease)
  • Fast or irregular heartbeat

Be careful

Dose may need lowering with kidney problems.

Other medicines and interactions

Reduces absorption of itraconazole, ketoconazole and some HIV medicines.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Considered acceptable in pregnancy and breastfeeding when needed.

Brands of Famotidine (10)

Famocer 40Famocid 20Famocid 40Famofast 40Famogreat 40Famonext 40Famonit 40Famotin 40Famtac 40Topcid 40

Common questions

What is Famotidine used for?

Reduces stomach acid to treat acidity, reflux and ulcers.

How does Famotidine work?

An H2 blocker that reduces stomach acid, less strongly than PPIs; used for heartburn, ulcers and with NSAIDs.

How should I take Famotidine?

Usually 20 to 40 mg once or twice a day; can be taken just before meals or at bedtime.

What are the side effects of Famotidine?

Common: Headache, constipation, diarrhoea, dizziness. Get help straight away for: Confusion (older people or kidney disease), fast or irregular heartbeat.

Does Famotidine interact with other medicines?

Reduces absorption of itraconazole, ketoconazole and some HIV medicines.

Is Famotidine safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Considered acceptable in pregnancy and breastfeeding when needed.

Does Famotidine need a prescription in India?

It is usually sold without a prescription in India, but ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term illness.

Which brands contain Famotidine?

Famocer 40, Famocid 20, Famocid 40, Famofast 40, Famogreat 40, Famonext 40, Famonit 40, Famotin 40, Famtac 40, Topcid 40.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.