Famotidine, also known by the brand name Pepcid, is a medication that belongs to the class of histamine-2 (H2) blockers.
It is commonly used to treat heartburn, acid indigestion, and stomach ulcers by reducing the amount of acid produced in the stomach.
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Famotidine Classification
Famotidine belongs to a class of medications known as histamine-2 receptor antagonists. It works by reducing the production of acid in the stomach by blocking histamine, a natural substance that stimulates acid secretion in the stomach.
Mechanism of action: Famotidine competes with histamine for binding at the H2 receptors on the gastric parietal cells, which decreases acid secretion and gastric volume. This leads to a reduction in gastric acid secretion and gastric acidity, which helps in the treatment of conditions such as ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and excess stomach acid.
Overall, Famotidine is an effective medication for reducing stomach acid production and providing relief from symptoms associated with acid-related disorders.
Pharmacological Properties
Famotidine belongs to the class of drugs known as histamine-2 (H2) receptor antagonists. It works by blocking the action of histamine, a substance in the body that is involved in the production of stomach acid. By inhibiting the H2 receptors, famotidine reduces the amount of acid produced in the stomach, thereby helping to relieve symptoms of conditions such as heartburn, acid indigestion, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Mechanism of Action
When famotidine binds to the H2 receptors on the surface of parietal cells in the stomach, it blocks the binding of histamine. This results in decreased production of gastric acid, which helps to alleviate symptoms of hyperacidity and acid-related conditions.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamics of famotidine include a dose-dependent inhibition of gastric acid secretion, with maximum effects occurring within 1-3 hours after administration. The drug has a relatively long duration of action, with effects lasting up to 10-12 hours. Famotidine is well-absorbed after oral administration and has a bioavailability of approximately 40-45%.
Therapeutic Indications
Famotidine is indicated for the treatment of active duodenal ulcers, active benign gastric ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), erosive esophagitis, and pathological hypersecretory conditions including Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.
It is also used in the maintenance therapy of healed duodenal ulcers and in the treatment of pathological gastrointestinal hypersecretory conditions, such as systemic mastocytosis and multiple endocrine adenomas. Famotidine can be used as adjunctive therapy in the prevention of gastrointestinal bleeding in critically ill patients.
For patients with GERD, famotidine can provide relief from heartburn, acid indigestion, and sour stomach. It helps reduce the production of stomach acid, thereby improving symptoms and promoting healing of the esophagus.
Pharmacokinetics of Famotidine
Famotidine is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. The peak plasma concentration is reached within 1-3 hours. The drug is extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by oxidation and methylation. The major metabolite is inactive.
Distribution
Famotidine has a high volume of distribution, indicating extensive tissue distribution. It crosses the blood-brain barrier and is excreted in breast milk.
Elimination
The elimination half-life of famotidine is approximately 2-3 hours. It is excreted primarily in the urine, both as unchanged drug and metabolites. Approximately 70-80% of the dose is excreted in the urine.
Adverse Effects and Precautions
When taking Famotidine, some common adverse effects may include headache, dizziness, or constipation. These side effects are usually mild and temporary, but if they persist or worsen, it is important to consult a healthcare provider.
Serious side effects
In some cases, Famotidine may cause serious side effects such as allergic reactions, difficulty breathing, chest pain, or irregular heartbeat. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and not exceed the recommended amount of Famotidine. Inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions or medications you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions or complications.