From the FDA Drug Label
The safety and effectiveness of Famotidine have been established in pediatric patients for the treatment of peptic ulcer disease (i.e., duodenal ulcer, gastric ulcer) and GERD (i.e., symptomatic non-erosive GERD, erosive esophagitis as diagnosed by endoscopy). Famotidine 20 and 40 mg tablets are not recommended for use in pediatric patients weighing less than 40 kg because these tablet strengths exceed the recommended dose for these patients [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)]. For pediatric patients weighing less than 40 kg, consider another famotidine formulation (e.g., oral suspension, lower dose tablet).
The FDA drug label does not provide a specific dosage for a 9-year-old patient, as the recommended dosage is based on weight (40 kg or greater). Since a 9-year-old patient typically weighs less than 40 kg, Famotidine 20 and 40 mg tablets are not recommended. Instead, another famotidine formulation, such as an oral suspension or lower dose tablet, should be considered. However, the exact dosage for a 9-year-old patient is not specified in the label 1 1.
From the Research
Pepcid (famotidine) is generally considered safe for children age 9, but you should consult with a pediatrician before giving it to your child. For a 9-year-old, the typical recommended dosage is 0.5 mg per kg of body weight, taken once or twice daily. For an average 9-year-old weighing about 28-30 kg (60-65 pounds), this would be approximately 15 mg per dose, not exceeding 40 mg per day. Pepcid works by reducing stomach acid production and can help with heartburn, acid reflux, or stomach ulcers. The medication typically comes in 10 mg or 20 mg tablets, so you may need to use the 10 mg tablets or a children's liquid formulation for proper dosing. Side effects are generally mild but can include headache, dizziness, or constipation. Don't give Pepcid for more than two weeks without medical supervision, and seek immediate medical attention if your child experiences severe stomach pain, difficulty swallowing, or signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, itching, or swelling.
Some key points to consider when giving Pepcid to a 9-year-old include:
- The dosage and administration should be determined by a pediatrician to ensure the child receives the correct amount for their weight and condition.
- Pepcid is effective in reducing stomach acid production, which can help alleviate symptoms of heartburn, acid reflux, and stomach ulcers 2.
- While generally safe, Pepcid can cause side effects, and it's essential to monitor the child for any adverse reactions 3.
- In comparison to other medications like omeprazole, Pepcid has been shown to be effective in treating upper abdominal symptoms in patients with reflux esophagitis, although omeprazole may be superior in some cases 4.
It's crucial to follow the guidance of a pediatrician when administering Pepcid to a child, as they can provide personalized advice and monitoring to ensure the child's safety and the effectiveness of the treatment.