FAMOTIDINE 40 mg/5mL Powder, For Suspension, 50 mL
Other active recalls for Famotidine (different manufacturers) — 2 · tap to view
🆔 Identity & classification
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🏷️ RxNorm drug class
This medicine belongs to the Histamine-2 Receptor Antagonist class.
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🏭 Manufacturer & labeler
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🩺 Clinical
Famotidine injection is used in people who are hospitalized to treat certain conditions in which the stomach produces too much acid or to treat ulcers (sores in the lining of the stomach or intestine) that were not successfully treated with other medications. Famotidine injection is also used on a short-term basis in people who cannot take oral medication to treat ulcers, to prevent ulcers from returning after they have healed, to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD, a condition in which backward flow of acid from the stomach causes heartburn and injury of the esophagus [tube betwe...
Read the full MedlinePlus article ↗- Great question. Antacids (like Tums) neutralize acid that's already in your stomach — they work fast but don't last long. Famotidine is different: it actually blocks a signal in yo...
- What exactly does famotidine do — and how is it different from antacids?
- The over-the-counter tablets are meant to relieve heartburn when it happens, or to prevent it if you take them 10 to 60 minutes before a meal that usually causes trouble. You shoul...
- Can I take the OTC version whenever I have heartburn, or is there a limit?
Patient education
Supplement & herbal interactions
Some supplements/herbs that may interact with Famotidine — tap one for details:
Famotidine may be associated with lower levels of 6 nutrients — worth a chat with your pharmacist, not a cause for alarm.
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Ask a licensed pharmacist directly — free, answered by our team.
💊 What it looks like
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🧪 Inactive Ingredients / Excipients
Inactive ingredients, also called excipients, are components of the drug product other than the active ingredient. They may include fillers, dyes, coatings, preservatives, flavors, or other formulation ingredients.
💡 Tap an ingredient (hover on desktop) to see what it is and why it’s used.
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UNII Q40Q9N063P
Acetic acid is a weak organic acid commonly used in medicines as a buffer and pH adjuster. It helps maintain the proper acidity level to ensure the drug remains stable and effective in its formulation.
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UNII 3K9958V90M
A liquid solvent derived from fermentation or chemical synthesis. In medicines, alcohol dissolves active ingredients, helps preserve the product, and improves how the body absorbs certain drugs.
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UNII 2968PHW8QP
A weak organic acid derived from citrus fruits or made through fermentation. It works as a buffer to control pH, a preservative to extend shelf life, and a flavoring agent in medications.
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UNII CR6K9C2NHK
A synthetic preservative derived from methylparaben. It prevents bacterial and fungal growth in medicines, extending shelf life and maintaining product safety during storage.
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UNII SMD1X3XO9M
Powdered cellulose is a fine, plant-based powder made from purified wood fibers. In medicines, it acts as a filler to add bulk and volume, and helps tablets or capsules hold together during manufacturing and storage.
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UNII 6DC9Q167V3
Propylene glycol is a clear liquid derived from petroleum or vegetable sources. It acts as a solvent, humectant, and preservative in medicines, helping dissolve active ingredients and maintain product stability.
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UNII 625NNB0G9N
A preservative derived from benzoic acid that prevents bacterial and fungal growth in medicines. It helps keep the product safe and stable throughout its shelf life.
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UNII OJ245FE5EU
Sodium benzoate is a salt derived from benzoic acid, a preservative. It's added to medicines to prevent growth of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms that could spoil the product.
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UNII C151H8M554
A natural sugar derived from sugar cane or sugar beets. It's used as a sweetener, filler, and binder to improve taste, add bulk, and help hold tablet or capsule ingredients together.
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UNII 8Z96QXD6UM
Triethyl citrate is a clear liquid derived from citric acid. It acts as a plasticizer and solvent in tablet coatings and film formulations, helping the coating remain flexible and adhere properly to the medicine.
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UNII 059QF0KO0R
Water is a liquid solvent that dissolves and mixes ingredients together in liquid medicines, syrups, and injections. It helps distribute the active drug evenly throughout the product.
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UNII TTV12P4NEE
Xanthan gum is a thickening and stabilizing ingredient made from fermented corn or other sugars. It's added to medicines to improve texture, prevent separation of liquids and solids, and help the product stay consistent.
12 inactive ingredients listed in the exact product block matched to this NDC.
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ingredient classCode="IACT" elements from the exact product block matched by this NDC. Label-section narrative from DailyMed / the openFDA label index is shown separately when available.Inactive ingredient FAQ
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💲 Pricing
A drug doesn't have one price. Each row is a different public payment system, and none is what you'd pay at the counter — that depends on your insurance. The ⓘ on each row explains what it measures.
| Price system | Per mL | Per package |
|---|---|---|
| Retail pharmacies payNADAC · weekly | $0.131 | $6.56 / 50 ml |
| Medicaid paysCMS SDUD · 12 mo | $0.2777 | $13.89 / 50 ml |
| Medicare drug plans payPart D · Q2 2026 | $0.6788 | $33.94 / 50 ml |
Where does this data come from?
🔁 Therapeutic equivalents
| Product | Labeler | Pack | NADAC/unit | TE | Status | Price vs. this |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Famotidine 40 mg/5mL 72205-0233-84 | Novadoz | 55 ml | $0.078 | AB | Availability likely | save 41% |
| Famotidine 40 mg/5mL 27241-0249-49 | Ajanta | 50 ml | $0.131 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Famotidine 40 mg/5mL 31722-0063-31 | Camber | 50 ml | $0.131 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Famotidine 40 mg/5mL 42571-0433-45 | Micro | 50 ml | $0.131 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Famotidine 40 mg/5mLthis 59651-0701-50 | Aurobindo | 50 ml | $0.131 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Famotidine 40 mg/5mL 60219-2090-04 | Amneal | 50 ml | $0.131 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Famotidine 40 mg/5mL 67877-0775-89 | Ascend | 50 ml | $0.131 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Famotidine 40 mg/5mL 68180-0150-01 | Lupin | 50 ml | $0.131 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Famotidine 40 mg/5mL 68382-0444-05 | Zydus | 50 ml | $0.131 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Famotidine 40 mg/5mL 69238-2090-04 | Amneal | 50 ml | $0.131 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Famotidine 40 mg/5mL 70377-0113-11 | Biocon | 50 ml | $0.131 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Famotidine 40 mg/5mL 70954-0316-10 | ANI | 50 ml | $0.131 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Famotidine 40 mg/5mL 72603-0171-01 | NorthStar | 50 ml | $0.131 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Famotidine 40 mg/5mL 80005-0119-16 | Carnegie | 50 ml | $0.131 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Famotidine 40 mg/5mL 00832-6045-10 | Upsher-Smith | 100 ml | $0.494 | AB | Availability likely | +277% |
| Famotidine 40 mg/5mL 00527-5190-80 | Lannett | 55 ml | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Famotidine 40 mg/5mL 43386-0500-11 | Lupin | 50 ml | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Famotidine 40 mg/5mL 43598-0572-11 | DR. | 50 ml | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Famotidine 40 mg/5mL 51407-0452-50 | Golden | 50 ml | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| famotidine 40 mg/5mL 68475-0400-01 | Navinta | 50 ml | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Famotidine 40 mg/5mL 72162-2599-02 | Bryant | 50 ml | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Famotidine 40 mg/5mL 64980-0737-50 | RISING | 50 ml | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
Where does this data come from?
⏳ Availability & generic status
This product is an FDA-approved generic. Other versions of the same drug are listed under Therapeutic equivalents, least expensive first.
Where does this data come from?
🗺️ Medicaid utilization & spend
📊 Medicare Part D spend CMS · PART D · 2026 (Q1)
📦 Packaging — all sizes for this product
| Package NDC | Description | Marketing start | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 59651-0701-50 You're viewing this | 50 mL in 1 BOTTLE (59651-701-50) | 2025-07-09 | Active |
📄 Full prescribing information FDA SPL
🎯 Indications and Usage ▾
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Famotidine for oral suspension is indicated in adults for the treatment of: active duodenal ulcer (DU). active gastric ulcer (GU). symptomatic nonerosive gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). erosive esophagitis due to GERD, diagnosed by biopsy. treatment of pathological hypersecretory conditions (e.g., Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, multiple endocrine neoplasias). reduction of the risk of DU recurrence. Famotidine for oral suspension is indicated in pediatric patients 1 year of age and older for the treatment of: peptic ulcer disease.
GERD with or without esophagitis and ulcerations. Famotidine for oral suspension is indicated in pediatric patients from birth to less than 1 year of age for the treatment of: GERD. Famotidine for oral suspension is a histamine-2 (H 2 ) receptor antagonist indicated ( 1 ): In adults for the treatment of: active duodenal ulcer (DU). active gastric ulcer (GU). symptomatic nonerosive gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). erosive esophagitis due to GERD, diagnosed by biopsy. treatment of pathological hypersecretory conditions (e.g., Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, multiple endocrine neoplasias). reduction of the risk of DU recurrence.
In pediatric patients 1 year of age and older for the treatment of: peptic ulcer. GERD with or without esophagitis and ulcerations. In pediatric patients from birth to less than 1 year of age for the treatment of: GERD.
⏱️ Dosage and Administration ▾
2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Recommended adult dosage by indication ( 2.1 ): Active DU 40 mg once daily; or 20 mg twice daily Active GU 40 mg once daily Symptomatic Nonerosive GERD 20 mg twice daily Erosive Esophagitis due to GERD 20 mg twice daily; or 40 mg twice daily Pathological Hypersecretory Conditions 20 mg every 6 hours; adjust to patient needs; maximum 160 mg every 6 hours Risk Reduction of DU Recurrence 20 mg once daily Recommended pediatric dosage by indication ( 2.2 ): Peptic Ulcer Disease 1 year to less than 17 years Starting dosage 0.5 mg/kg once daily; or 0.25 mg/kg twice daily; may increase to 1 mg/kg once daily at bedtime or 0.5 mg/kg twice daily; Maximum of 40 mg per day GERD Birth to less than 3 months Starting dosage 0.5 mg/kg once daily; may increase to 1 mg/kg once daily 3 months to less than 1 year Starting dosage 0.5 mg/kg twice daily; may increase to 1 mg/kg twice daily; Maximum of 40 mg per day GERD with or without esophagitis and ulcerations 1 year to less than 17 years 0.5 mg/kg twice daily Maximum of 40 mg twice daily See full prescribing information for complete dosing information in adults and pediatrics, recommended treatment duration by indication, and dosage adjustment for adult patients with renal impairment.
( 2.1 , 2.2 , 2.3 ) Administration ( 2.4 ): Take once daily before bedtime or twice daily in the morning and before bedtime with or without food.
2.1Recommended Dosage in Adults The recommended dosage and duration of famotidine for oral suspension in adults with normal renal function is shown in Table 1. After preparation, the concentration of famotidine for oral suspension is 8 mg/mL [see Dosage and Administration (2.3) ]. Table 1: Recommended Dosage and Duration of Famotidine for Oral Suspension in Adults with Normal Renal Function a Both dosages demonstrated effectiveness in clinical trials [see Clinical Studies (14) ] . b In clinical trials, the majority of patients healed within 4 weeks.
For patients who do not heal after 4 weeks, consider an additional 2 to 4 weeks of treatment [see Clinical Studies (14.1) ]. c Longer treatment durations have not been studied in clinical trials [see Clinical Studies (14.1 , 14.2 , 14.3) ] . Indication Recommended Dosage Recommended Duration Active DU 40 mg once daily; or 20 mg twice daily a Up to 8 weeks b, c Active GU 40 mg once daily Up to 8 weeks c Symptomatic nonerosive GERD 20 mg twice daily Up to 6 weeks c Erosive esophagitis due to GERD, diagnosed by endoscopy 20 mg twice daily; or 40 mg twice daily a Up to 12 weeks Pathological hypersecretory conditions Starting dosage: 20 mg every 6 hours; adjust dosage to individual patient needs Maximum dosage 160 mg every 6 hours As clinically indicated Reduction of the risk of DU recurrence 20 mg once daily 1 year b,c or as clinically indicated
2.2Recommended Dosage in Pediatric Patients The recommended dosage and duration of famotidine for oral suspension in pediatric patients with normal renal function is shown in Table 2. After preparation, the concentration of famotidine for oral suspension is 8 mg/mL [see Dosage and Administration (2.3) ]. Table 2: Recommended Dosage and Duration of Famotidine for Oral Suspension in Pediatric Patients with Normal Renal Function a Treatment duration based on adult recommendations (see Table 1).
Individualize the dose and duration based upon clinical response and/or pH determinations (gastric or esophageal) and endoscopy. b Use conservative measures (e.g., thickened feedings) concurrently [see Use in Specific Populations (8.4) ] . c After 4 weeks of treatment re-evaluate the patient. Consider an additional 4 weeks of treatment if treatment benefit outweighs potential risks. Indication Pediatric Age Range Recommended Dosage Duration Peptic Ulcer Disease 1 year to less than 17 years Starting dosage 0.5 mg/kg once daily; or 0.25 mg/kg twice daily May increase to 1 mg/kg once daily at bedtime or 0.5 mg/kg twice daily Maximum of 40 mg per day 8 weeks a GERD Birth to les…
💊 Dosage Forms and Strengths ▾
3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS For Oral Suspension: 400 mg as a white to off-white granular powder. When constituted as directed, famotidine for oral suspension, USP is a white to off-white flavoured homogenous suspension containing 50 mL after reconstitution (40 mg of famotidine, USP per 5 mL). For oral suspension: 50 mL after reconstitution (40 mg/5 mL) ( 3 )
⛔ Contraindications ▾
4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Famotidine for oral suspension is contraindicated in patients with a history of serious hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis) to famotidine or other H 2 -receptor antagonists. History of serious hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis) to famotidine or other H 2- receptor antagonists. ( 4 )
⚠️ Warnings and Cautions ▾
5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Central Nervous System (CNS) Adverse Reactions : Elderly patients and patients with renal impairment at increased risk; reduce the dosage. ( 2.1 , 5.1 , 8.5 , 8.6 ) GI Malignancy : Absence of GI symptoms does not preclude the presence of gastric malignancy; evaluate prior to initiating therapy. ( 5.2 )
5.1Central Nervous System Adverse Reactions Central nervous system (CNS) adverse reactions, including confusion, delirium, hallucinations, disorientation, agitation, seizures, and lethargy, have been reported in elderly patients and patients with moderate and severe renal impairment treated with famotidine. Since famotidine blood levels are higher in patients with renal impairment than in patients with normal renal function, dosage adjustments are recommended in patients with renal impairment [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) , Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ].
5.2Concurrent Gastric Malignancy In adults, symptomatic response to therapy with famotidine for oral suspension does not preclude the presence of gastric malignancy. Consider evaluation for gastric malignancy in adult patients who have a suboptimal response or an early symptomatic relapse after completing treatment with famotidine for oral suspension.
🤒 Adverse Reactions ▾
6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The most common adverse reactions are: headache, dizziness, constipation, and diarrhea. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Aurobindo Pharma USA, Inc. at 1-866-850-2876 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.
6.1Clinical Trial Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. The safety of famotidine for oral suspension has been established based on adequate and well-controlled studies of another oral famotidine product [see Clinical Studies (14) ]. The following is a summary of the adverse reactions reported in those studies.
Oral famotidine was studied in 7 U.S. and international placebo- and active-controlled trials in approximately 2500 patients [see Clinical Studies (14) ] . A total of 1442 patients were treated with famotidine, including 302 treated with 40 mg twice daily, 456 treated with 20 mg twice daily, 461 treated with 40 mg once daily, and 396 treated with 20 mg once daily. The population was 17 to 91 years old, fairly well distributed between sex and race; however, the predominant race was White.
The following adverse reactions occurred in greater than or equal to 1% of famotidine-treated patients: headache, dizziness and constipation. The following other adverse reactions were reported in less than 1% of patients in clinical trials: Body as a Whole: fever, asthenia, fatigue Cardiovascular: palpitations Gastrointestinal: elevated liver enzymes, vomiting, nausea, abdominal discomfort, anorexia, dry mouth Hematologic: thrombocytopenia Hypersensitivity: orbital edema, rash, conjunctival injection, bronchospasm Musculoskeletal: musculoskeletal pain, arthralgia Nervous System/Psychiatric: seizure, hallucinations, depression, anxiety, decreased libido, insomnia, somnolence Skin: pruritus, dry skin, flushing Special Senses: tinnitus, taste disorder Other: impotence Pediatric Patients Less Than 1 Year of Age In a clinical study in 35 pediatric patients less than 1 year of age with GERD symptoms, two patients discontinued due to adverse reactions.
Agitation observed in 5 patients resolved when famotidine was discontinued [see Use in Specific Populations (8.4) ] .
6.2Postmarketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of famotidine. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Cardiovascular: arrhythmia, AV block, prolonged QT interval Gastrointestinal: cholestatic jaundice, hepatitis Hematologic: agranulocytosis, pancytopenia, leukopenia Hypersensitivity: anaphylaxis, angioedema, facial edema, urticaria Musculoskeletal: rhabdomyolysis, muscle cramps Nervous System/Psychiatric: confusion, agitation, paresthesia Respiratory: interstitial pneumonia Skin: toxic epidermal necrolysis/Stevens-Johnson syndrome
🔄 Drug Interactions ▾
7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Drugs Dependent on Gastric pH for Absorption : Systemic exposure of the concomitant drug may be significantly reduced leading to loss of efficacy. ( 7.1 ) Tizanidine (CYP1A2) Substrate: Potential for substantial increases in blood concentrations of tizanidine resulting in hypotension, bradycardia or excessive drowsiness; avoid concomitant use, if possible. ( 7.2 )
7.1Drugs Dependent on Gastric pH for Absorption Famotidine can reduce the absorption of other drugs due to its effect on reducing intragastric acidity, leading to loss of efficacy of the concomitant drug. Concomitant administration of famotidine for oral suspension with dasatinib, delavirdine mesylate, cefditoren, and fosamprenavir is not recommended. See the prescribing information for other drugs dependent on gastric pH for absorption for administration instructions, including atazanavir, erlotinib, ketoconazole, itraconazole, ledipasvir/sofosbuvir, nilotinib, and rilpivirine.
7.2Tizanidine (CYP1A2 Substrate) Although not studied clinically, famotidine is considered a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor and may lead to substantial increases in blood concentrations of tizanidine, a CYP1A2 substrate. Avoid concomitant use with famotidine for oral suspension. If concomitant use is necessary, monitor for hypotension, bradycardia or excessive drowsiness. Refer to the full prescribing information for tizanidine.
👥 Use in Specific Populations ▾
8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS Geriatric Use: Use the lowest effective dose for an elderly patient and monitor renal function. ( 2.1 , 5.1 , 8.5 ) Renal Impairment: Risk of CNS adverse reactions and QT prolongation in patients with moderate and severe renal impairment; reduce the dosage in adults. ( 2.3 , 8.6 )
8.1Pregnancy Risk Summary Available data with H 2 -receptor antagonists, including famotidine, in pregnant women are insufficient to establish a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. In animal reproduction studies, no adverse development effects were observed with oral administration of famotidine at doses up to approximately 243 and 122 times, respectively, the recommended human dose of 80 mg/day for the treatment of erosive esophagitis (see Data) . The estimated background risk for major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown.
All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively. Data Animal Data Reproductive studies have been performed in rats and rabbits at oral doses of up to 2000 and 500 mg/kg/day, respectively, and in both species at intravenous doses of up to 200 mg/kg/day, and have revealed no significant evidence of impaired fertility or harm to the fetus due to famotidine.
While no direct fetotoxic effects have been observed, sporadic abortions occurring only in mothers displaying marked decreased food intake were seen in some rabbits at oral doses of 200 mg/kg/day (about 49 times the recommended human dose of 80 mg/day, based on body surface area) or higher. There are, however, no adequate or well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproductive studies are not always predictive of human response, this drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.
8.2Lactation Risk Summary There are limited data available on the presence of famotidine in human breast milk. There were no effects on the breastfed infant. There are no data on famotidine effects on milk production.
Famotidine is present in the milk of lactating rats (see Data) . The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for famotidine and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from famotidine for oral suspension or from the underlying maternal condition. Data Animal Data Transient growth depression was observed in young rats suckling from mother̕ s treated with maternotoxic doses of famotidine at least 600 times the usual human dose.
8.4Pediatric Use Peptic Ulcer Disease and GERD With or Without Esophagitis and Ulcerations Pediatric Patients 1 Year to Less Than 17 Years of Age The safety and effectiveness of famotidine for oral suspension have been established in pediatric patients 1 year to less than 17 years of age for the treatment of peptic ulcer disease and GERD with or without esophagitis and ulcerations. Use of famotidine for oral suspension in this age group is supported by evidence from adequate and well-controlled studies of famotidine in adults with additional pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data in pediatric patients 1 year to less than 17 years of age [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) , Clinical Pharmacology (12.2 , 12.3) ] .
The safety and effectiveness of famotidine for oral suspension for the treatment of peptic ulcer disease in pediatric patients less than 1 year of age have not been established. GERD Pediatric Patients Less Than 1 Year of Age The safety and effectiveness of famotidine for oral suspension have been established in pediatric patients from birth to less than 1 year of age for the treatment of GERD. The use of famotidine for oral suspension in this age group is supported by evidence from adequate and well-controlled studi…
🤰 Pregnancy ▾
8.1Pregnancy Risk Summary Available data with H 2 -receptor antagonists, including famotidine, in pregnant women are insufficient to establish a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. In animal reproduction studies, no adverse development effects were observed with oral administration of famotidine at doses up to approximately 243 and 122 times, respectively, the recommended human dose of 80 mg/day for the treatment of erosive esophagitis (see Data) . The estimated background risk for major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown.
All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively. Data Animal Data Reproductive studies have been performed in rats and rabbits at oral doses of up to 2000 and 500 mg/kg/day, respectively, and in both species at intravenous doses of up to 200 mg/kg/day, and have revealed no significant evidence of impaired fertility or harm to the fetus due to famotidine.
While no direct fetotoxic effects have been observed, sporadic abortions occurring only in mothers displaying marked decreased food intake were seen in some rabbits at oral doses of 200 mg/kg/day (about 49 times the recommended human dose of 80 mg/day, based on body surface area) or higher. There are, however, no adequate or well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproductive studies are not always predictive of human response, this drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.
🧒 Pediatric Use ▾
8.4Pediatric Use Peptic Ulcer Disease and GERD With or Without Esophagitis and Ulcerations Pediatric Patients 1 Year to Less Than 17 Years of Age The safety and effectiveness of famotidine for oral suspension have been established in pediatric patients 1 year to less than 17 years of age for the treatment of peptic ulcer disease and GERD with or without esophagitis and ulcerations. Use of famotidine for oral suspension in this age group is supported by evidence from adequate and well-controlled studies of famotidine in adults with additional pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data in pediatric patients 1 year to less than 17 years of age [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) , Clinical Pharmacology (12.2 , 12.3) ] .
The safety and effectiveness of famotidine for oral suspension for the treatment of peptic ulcer disease in pediatric patients less than 1 year of age have not been established. GERD Pediatric Patients Less Than 1 Year of Age The safety and effectiveness of famotidine for oral suspension have been established in pediatric patients from birth to less than 1 year of age for the treatment of GERD. The use of famotidine for oral suspension in this age group is supported by evidence from adequate and well-controlled studies of famotidine in adults and with supportive data in pediatric patients from birth to less than 1 year of age [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) , Clinical Pharmacology (12.2 , 12.3) , Clinical Studies (14.7) ] .
Other Conditions The safety and effectiveness for the treatment of pathological hypersecretory conditions and reduction of risk of DU recurrence have not been established in pediatric patients. A safe and effective dosage has not been established in pediatric patients with renal impairment.
🧓 Geriatric Use ▾
8.5Geriatric Use Of the 1442 famotidine-treated patients in clinical studies, approximately 10% were 65 and older. In these studies, no overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between elderly and younger patients. In postmarketing experience, CNS adverse reactions have been reported in elderly patients with and without renal impairment receiving famotidine [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] .
Famotidine is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney, and the risk of adverse reactions to famotidine for oral suspension may be greater in elderly patients, particularly those with impaired renal function [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6) ] . In general, use the lowest effective dose of famotidine for oral suspension for an elderly patient and monitor renal function [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) ].
🆘 Overdosage ▾
10 OVERDOSAGE The types of adverse reactions in overdosage of famotidine are similar to the adverse reactions encountered with use of recommended dosages [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ] . In the event of overdosage, treatment should be symptomatic and supportive. Unabsorbed material should be removed from the gastrointestinal tract, the patient should be monitored, and supportive therapy should be employed.
Due to low binding to plasma proteins, famotidine is eliminated by hemodialysis. There is limited experience on the usefulness of hemodialysis as a treatment for famotidine overdosage.
🧬 Clinical Pharmacology ▾
12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY
12.1Mechanism of Action Famotidine is a competitive inhibitor of H 2 -receptors. The primary clinically important pharmacologic activity of famotidine is inhibition of gastric secretion. Both the acid concentration and volume of gastric secretion are suppressed by famotidine, while changes in pepsin secretion are proportional to volume output.
12.2Pharmacodynamics Adults Famotidine inhibited both basal and nocturnal gastric secretion, as well as secretion stimulated by food and pentagastrin. After oral administration of famotidine, the onset of the antisecretory effect occurred within 1 hour; the maximum effect was dose-dependent, occurring within 1 to 3 hours. Duration of inhibition of secretion by doses of 20 mg and 40 mg was 10 to 12 hours.
Single evening oral doses of 20 mg and 40 mg inhibited basal and nocturnal acid secretion in all subjects; mean nocturnal gastric acid secretion was inhibited by 86% and 94%, respectively, for a period of at least 10 hours. The same doses given in the morning suppressed food-stimulated acid secretion in all subjects. The mean suppression was 76% and 84%, respectively, 3 to 5 hours after administration, and 25% and 30%, respectively, 8 to 10 hours after administration.
In some subjects who received the 20 mg dose, however, the antisecretory effect was dissipated within 6 to 8 hours. There was no cumulative effect with repeated doses. The nocturnal intragastric pH was raised by evening doses of 20 mg and 40 mg of famotidine to mean values of 5.0 and 6.4, respectively.
When famotidine was given after breakfast, the basal daytime interdigestive pH at 3 and 8 hours after 20 mg or 40 mg of famotidine was raised to a pH level of about 5. Famotidine had little or no effect on fasting or postprandial serum gastrin levels. Gastric emptying and exocrine pancreatic function were not affected by famotidine.
In clinical pharmacology studies, systemic effects of famotidine in the CNS, cardiovascular, respiratory or endocrine systems were not noted. Also, no anti-androgenic effects were noted. Serum hormone levels, including prolactin, cortisol, thyroxine (T 4 ), and testosterone, were not altered after treatment with famotidine.
Pediatric Patients Pharmacodynamics of famotidine, assessed by gastric pH, were evaluated in 5 pediatric patients 2 years to 13 years of age using the sigmoid E max model. These data suggest that the relationship between serum concentration of famotidine and gastric acid suppression is similar to that observed in adults (see Table 4). Table 4: Serum Concentrations of Famotidine Associated with Gastric Acid Reduction in Famotidine-Treated Pediatric and Adult Patients a EC 50 (ng/mL) a Pediatric Patients 26 ± 13 Adults Healthy adult subjects 26.5 ±
10.3Adult patients with upper GI bleeding 18.7 ± 10.8 a Using the sigmoid E max model, serum concentrations of famotidine associated with 50% maximum gastric acid reduction are presented as mean ± SD. In a study examining the effect of famotidine on gastric pH and duration of acid suppression in pediatric patients, four pediatric patients ages 11 to 15 years of age using the oral formulation at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg, maintained a gastric pH above 5 for 13.5 ± 1.8 hours.
12.3Pharmacokinetics Absorption Famotidine is incompletely absorbed. The bioavailability of oral doses is 40 to 45%. Bioavailability may be slightly increased by food, or slightly decreased by antacids; however, these effects are of no clinical consequence.
Peak famotidine plasma levels occur in 1 to 3 hours. Plasma levels after multiple dosages are similar to those after single doses. Distribution Fifteen to 20% of famotidine in plasma is protein bound.
Elimination Metabolism Famotidine undergoes minimal first-pass metabolism. Twenty-five to 30% of an oral dose was recovered in the urine as unchanged compound. The only metabolite identified in humans is the S-oxide.
Excretion Famotidine has an elimination half-life of 2.5 to 3.5 hours. Famoti…
🧬 Mechanism of Action ▾
12.1Mechanism of Action Famotidine is a competitive inhibitor of H 2 -receptors. The primary clinically important pharmacologic activity of famotidine is inhibition of gastric secretion. Both the acid concentration and volume of gastric secretion are suppressed by famotidine, while changes in pepsin secretion are proportional to volume output.
📦 How Supplied / Storage and Handling ▾
16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING Famotidine for oral suspension, USP is supplied as follows: NDC Strength Quantity Description 59651-701-50 40 mg/5 mL Bottle White to off-white granular powder. When constituted as directed, famotidine for oral suspension, USP is a white to off-white flavoured homogenous suspension containing 50 mL after reconstitution (40 mg of famotidine, USP per 5 mL). Prior to dispensing, constitute famotidine for oral suspension, USP [see Dosage and Administration (2.4) ].
Storage Store famotidine for oral suspension, USP dry powder at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F); excursions permitted to 15° to 30°C (59° to 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Dispense in a USP tight, light-resistant container.
📋 Description ▾
11 DESCRIPTION The active ingredient in famotidine for oral suspension, USP is a H 2 -receptor antagonist. Famotidine is N' -(aminosulfonyl)-3-[[[2-[(diaminomethylene)amino]-4-thiazolyl]methyl]thio]propanimidamide. The molecular formula of famotidine is C 8 H 15 N 7 O 2 S 3 and its molecular weight is 337.43.
Its structural formula is: Each 5 mL of famotidine for oral suspension, USP when prepared as directed contains 40 mg of famotidine, USP and the following inactive ingredients: banana flavor (contains propylene glycol), cherry flavor (contains acetic acid, propylene glycol and triethyl citrate), citric acid monohydrate, peppermint flavor (contains ethyl alcohol and water), powdered cellulose, sucrose and xanthan gum. Added as preservatives are methylparaben sodium 0.1%, propylparaben sodium 0.02% and sodium benzoate 0.1%.
Each 5 mL of famotidine for oral suspension USP contains 2 mg of sodium. Famotidine, USP is a white to pale yellowish white crystalline powder that is freely soluble in dimethyl formamide, glacial acetic acid, slightly soluble in methanol, very slightly soluble in water, practically insoluble in acetone, in alcohol, in chloroform, in ether and in ethyl acetate. str
💬 Information for Patients ▾
17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION Central Nervous System (CNS) Adverse Reactions Advise elderly patients and those with moderate and severe renal impairment of the risk of CNS adverse reactions, including confusion, delirium, hallucinations, disorientation, agitation, seizures, and lethargy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . Report symptoms immediately to a healthcare provider. QT Interval Prolongation Advise patients with moderate and severe renal impairment of the risk of QT interval prolongation [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6) ] .
Report new cardiac symptoms, such as palpitations, fainting and dizziness or lightheadedness, immediately to a healthcare provider. Administration Advise patients to take and caregivers to administer famotidine for oral suspension using an oral dosing syringe to correctly measure the prescribed amount of medication. Oral dosing syringes may be obtained from the pharmacy.
Shake the bottle of reconstituted famotidine for oral suspension vigorously for 5 to 10 seconds prior to each use. Take once daily before bedtime or twice daily in the morning and before bedtime, as recommended, with or without food. May be given with antacids.
Distributed by: Aurobindo Pharma USA, Inc. 279 Princeton-Hightstown Road East Windsor, NJ 08520 Manufactured by: Aurobindo Pharma Limited Hyderabad-500 032, India Issued: September 2024