From the FDA Drug Label
2.3 Administration Instructions • Take Famotidine once daily before bedtime or twice daily in the morning and before bedtime, as recommended. The FDA drug label does not answer the question about taking Pepcid chewable tablets multiple times a day, as the provided labels are for Famotidine tablets.
- The labels provide information on the administration of Famotidine tablets, which can be taken once daily or twice daily, but do not specifically address the use of Pepcid chewable tablets.
- Key points to consider when taking any medication, including Pepcid, are to follow the recommended dosage and administration instructions. 1 1
From the Research
Pepcid chewable tablets (famotidine) can be taken multiple times a day, but it is essential to follow the specific dosing instructions on the package or from your healthcare provider to minimize potential risks and maximize benefits in terms of morbidity, mortality, and quality of life. For over-the-counter use, the typical recommendation is one to two tablets (10-20 mg) up to twice daily. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 40 mg (or two 20 mg tablets) in a 24-hour period. Pepcid works by reducing stomach acid production by blocking histamine H2 receptors in the stomach, providing relief from heartburn, acid indigestion, and sour stomach. The medication typically starts working within an hour and its effects can last for several hours. Taking it 15-60 minutes before meals that might trigger symptoms can be effective for prevention. If you find yourself needing to take the maximum dose regularly for more than two weeks, you should consult with a healthcare provider as this might indicate an underlying condition requiring different treatment, as suggested by studies comparing the efficacy of different treatments for gastrointestinal issues 2. Also, be aware that chewable tablets may contain ingredients like phenylalanine that could be important for people with certain health conditions. It's worth noting that while Pepcid can be effective, other medications like omeprazole have shown superior efficacy in certain conditions, such as reflux esophagitis 2, and the choice of medication should be based on the specific condition being treated and the patient's overall health status. In cases of severe reactions, such as anaphylaxis, alternative treatments should be considered, as some patients may experience cross-reactivity to different H2 receptor antagonists 3. Overall, the key to safely and effectively using Pepcid chewable tablets is to follow the recommended dosage and consult with a healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen over time.