Histamine H2-receptor antagonist / anti-ulcer medicine
Certifications
Prescription Only medicine (POM) authorised by the UK MHRA under multiple Marketing Authorisations for Famotidine 20 mg tablets
Classified under ATC code A02BA03 (H2 Receptor antagonists)
Supplied in the UK via licensed wholesale distribution; Teleta Pharma is MHRA accredited, WDA certified and GDP compliant
Prescription Only medicine (POM) authorised by the UK MHRA under multiple Marketing Authorisations for Famotidine 20 mg tablets
Classified under ATC code A02BA03 (H2 Receptor antagonists)
Supplied in the UK via licensed wholesale distribution; Teleta Pharma is MHRA accredited, WDA certified and GDP compliant
Histamine H2-receptor antagonist / anti-ulcer medicine
Description
Famotidine 20mg Tablets (28) is a UK prescription-only medicine containing the H2-receptor antagonist famotidine. By reducing gastric acid secretion, it is used for the treatment and prevention of duodenal and gastric ulcers, the management of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (reflux oesophagitis and heartburn), and for pathological hypersecretory conditions such as Zollinger–Ellison syndrome. The 28-tablet calendar pack is commonly supplied as 4 blisters of 7 film-coated tablets for oral use.
Bnefits
Reduces gastric acid secretion by selective H2-receptor blockade
Used in the treatment of gastric and duodenal ulcers
Helps relieve and manage symptoms of acid reflux and heartburn
Indicated for pathological hypersecretory conditions such as Zollinger–Ellison syndrome
Oral film-coated tablets suitable for once- or twice-daily regimens as prescribed
Indications
Treatment of gastric ulcers
Treatment of duodenal ulcers
Prevention of recurrence of duodenal ulcers, as prescribed
Treatment of mild to moderate reflux oesophagitis and associated heartburn symptoms
Management of pathological hypersecretory conditions (e.g. Zollinger–Ellison syndrome), under specialist supervision
Composition
Active ingredient: Famotidine 20 mg per tablet
Excipients (vary by manufacturer), typically including: pregelatinised starch, microcrystalline cellulose, lactose monohydrate or other fillers, talc, magnesium stearate, hypromellose, macrogols, titanium dioxide (E171) and iron oxide colourants (E172)
Prescription-only medicinal product (POM) in the UK
Packaging
Blister packs of 28 film-coated tablets (commonly 4 x 7 tablets) in an outer carton
Calendar-style pack presentation to support correct daily dosing
Usage
For oral use only.
Swallow tablets with water; do not crush unless advised by a healthcare professional.
Use strictly as directed by the prescribing clinician and according to the Patient Information Leaflet supplied with the pack.
Do not alter the dose, stop, or restart treatment without medical advice.
Seek medical advice promptly if symptoms persist, worsen, or new symptoms occur.
Contraindications
Known hypersensitivity to famotidine, other H2-receptor antagonists, or any excipient in the product
Use in patients where gastric malignancy has not been appropriately investigated when clinically suspected
Use in individuals for whom a doctor has advised against H2-receptor antagonists due to specific comorbidities or interactions
Adverse Effects
Commonly reported adverse effects include headache, dizziness, gastrointestinal disturbances such as diarrhoea or constipation, and fatigue.
Less common effects reported in product leaflets include rash, pruritus, urticaria and other hypersensitivity reactions.
Rarely, central nervous system effects (confusion, hallucinations) have been reported, particularly in the elderly or those with renal impairment.
Very rare reports include liver enzyme abnormalities, blood count changes, and gynaecomastia; patients should consult the leaflet and seek medical advice if concerned.
Storage Conditions
Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
This medicinal product does not generally require any special storage conditions; store in the original blister/carton to protect from handling and moisture.
Do not use after the expiry date stated on the blister and carton (EXP); the expiry date refers to the last day of that month.
Do not dispose of medicines in household waste or wastewater; return unused tablets to a pharmacy for safe disposal.
Duration
Duration is determined by the prescriber and indication (for example, ulcer treatment is often several weeks, and reflux treatment may extend for 6\u201312 weeks or longer as clinically indicated).
Onset
Symptomatic relief of heartburn and acid-related discomfort typically occurs within a few hours of dosing, while ulcer healing and longer-term benefits require continued use over several weeks under medical supervision.
