Famotidine
Brands: Pepcid, Actfam
Famotidine is used in pets to reduce stomach acid. Consult your vet for advice.
Used for
- gastric ulcers
- acid reflux
- gastritis
How it is given
- Administration
- oral
- Frequency
- once daily
- Duration
- varies based on condition
- Storage
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
- Pregnancy safety
- caution
Always confirm the exact dose with your veterinarian before giving any medicine.
Typical dose ranges
cat
- Standard
- 0.5 mg per pound once daily
dog
- Large dogs
- 0.5 mg per pound once or twice daily
- Small dogs
- 0.5 mg per pound once daily
- Medium dogs
- 0.5 mg per pound once or twice daily
Ranges are reference only. Your vet sets the dose for your pet's weight and condition.
Active ingredients
- Famotidine
Side effects
Common
- loss of appetite
- diarrhea
Rare
- fatigue
Severe
- difficulty breathing
Do not use when
- allergy to Famotidine
- severe kidney disease
Interacts with
- antacids
- ketoconazole
Warnings
- caution in kidney disease
- monitor liver function
Famotidine questions
Can Famotidine be used for long-term treatment?
It is generally safe for short-term use. Long-term use should be under veterinary supervision.
Is Famotidine safe for pregnant pets?
Use with caution. Consult your veterinarian.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
Give the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it's close to the next dose.
Can Famotidine be used with other medications?
It may interact with certain drugs. Discuss your pet's medications with your vet.
What if my pet shows severe side effects?
Contact your veterinarian immediately.
Full drug detail
Overview
Famotidine is a widely used medication in veterinary medicine, primarily for reducing stomach acid production. It belongs to the class of H2 receptor antagonists and is commonly known by the brand names Pepcid and Actfam.
How It Works
Famotidine works by blocking H2 receptors in the stomach lining, thereby decreasing the production of stomach acid. This action helps in alleviating symptoms associated with acid-related conditions.
Uses & Indications
Famotidine is used in pets to treat various conditions, including:
- Gastric ulcers
- Acid reflux
- Gastritis
- Esophagitis
Dosage Guidelines
Dogs
- Small Dogs: 0.5 mg per pound (1 mg/kg) once daily
- Medium Dogs: 0.5 mg per pound (1 mg/kg) once or twice daily
- Large Dogs: 0.5 mg per pound (1 mg/kg) once or twice daily
Cats
- Standard Dosage: 0.5 mg per pound (1 mg/kg) once daily
Administration
Famotidine is administered orally, typically in tablet form. It can be given with or without food.
Side Effects
Common
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhea
Rare
- Fatigue
Severe
- Difficulty breathing (requires immediate veterinary attention)
Precautions & Warnings
- Famotidine should not be used in pets with known allergies to the drug.
- Caution is advised for pets with kidney or liver disease.
Drug Interactions
- Antacids
- Ketoconazole
Storage
Store Famotidine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
FAQ
- Can Famotidine be used for long-term treatment? It is generally safe for short-term use. Long-term use should be under veterinary supervision.
- Is Famotidine safe for pregnant pets? Use with caution. Consult your veterinarian.
- What should I do if I miss a dose? Give the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it's close to the next dose.
- Can Famotidine be used with other medications? It may interact with certain drugs. Discuss your pet's medications with your vet.
- What if my pet shows severe side effects? Contact your veterinarian immediately.