Famotidine 20mg tablets are an effective H2 antagonist used to treat acid reflux, heartburn, and stomach ulcers. It can also be used for mast cell activation syndrome, or MCAS.
They reduce stomach acid production and are available on prescription following a clinical review.
Famotidine 20mg tablets belong to a class of medications called H2 receptor antagonists. They work by reducing the amount of acid produced in the stomach, helping to relieve symptoms such as heartburn, acid reflux, nausea, and bloating caused by excess stomach acid.
This medication is commonly prescribed for conditions like gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), stomach ulcers, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, a rare condition involving excess stomach acid production. It can also be used for mast cell activation syndrome, or MCAS.
Famotidine 20mg tablets offer fast, effective relief and are available at licensed UK pharmacies like Courier Pharmacy after a clinical review via online consultation.
Key features of famotidine 20mg tablets include:
Reduces stomach acid production quickly.
Helps relieve heartburn, acid reflux, and ulcers.
Suitable for short- and long-term use under medical supervision.
Everything you need to know about Famotidine 20mg tablets—how they work, who they’re for, and how to use them safely.
Famotidine 20mg tablets: a trusted treatment for acid reflux, heartburn, and stomach ulcers.
Friendly, practical guide with expert insights.
Clear information on dosage, side effects, and drug interactions.
Trusted advice backed by clinical evidence.
All references linked from EMC, NICE BNF, and NHS.
Overview: famotidine 20mg tablets
Famotidine 20mg tablets are widely used to reduce stomach acid production, helping to relieve symptoms of acid reflux, heartburn, and stomach ulcers.
They belong to the H2 receptor antagonist class, working by blocking histamine receptors in the stomach lining that trigger acid secretion [1][2].
Famotidine is effective for both short-term symptom relief and longer-term treatment plans, improving quality of life for many patients.
Active ingredient: famotidine 20mg tablets
The active ingredient in famotidine 20mg tablets is famotidine, a selective H2 receptor antagonist that reduces gastric acid secretion by blocking histamine action on stomach cells [1][2].
What are famotidine 20mg tablets for?
Famotidine 20mg tablets are used to treat:
Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) and heartburn.
Stomach and duodenal ulcers.
Zollinger-Ellison syndrome and other conditions causing excess stomach acid.
Reduce histamine levels in MCAS
They help relieve symptoms like burning chest pain, acid regurgitation, nausea, and bloating.
Famotidine may also be prescribed to protect the stomach lining during long-term use of other medications such as NSAIDs [1][2].
How do famotidine 20mg tablets work?
When histamine binds to H2 receptors in the stomach lining, it stimulates the production of acid.
Famotidine blocks these H2 receptors, reducing acid secretion.
This lowers stomach acidity, allowing ulcers to heal and reducing irritation of the oesophagus.
Famotidine’s effect starts quickly, often within an hour, and lasts 12 to 24 hours [1][2].
How to use famotidine 20mg tablets
Take famotidine 20mg tablets exactly as prescribed, usually once or twice daily.
Swallow tablets whole with water, with or without food.
Try to take the medication at the exact times each day for consistent effect.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s near the next dose. Do not double your dose [1].
Warnings and precautions: famotidine 20mg tablets
Do not take famotidine if you are allergic to famotidine or any other ingredients.
Consult your doctor if you have kidney problems, liver disease, or a history of stomach cancer.
Inform your healthcare provider of any other medications you are taking to avoid interactions.
Famotidine is not recommended for children under 18 [1][2].
Side effects: famotidine 20mg tablets
Common side effects include headache, dizziness, constipation, diarrhoea, nausea, abdominal pain, flatulence, tiredness, dry mouth, and loss of appetite.
Severe allergic reactions are rare but require immediate medical attention.
Most side effects are mild and resolve as your body adjusts to the medication [1].
Drug interactions: famotidine 20mg tablets
Famotidine may interact with medications including ketoconazole, sucralfate, delavirdine, atazanavir, gefitinib, dasatinib, itraconazole, iron supplements, mycophenolate mofetil, procainamide, and warfarin.
Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking.
Avoid alcohol as it may increase side effects [1][2].
FAQ: famotidine 20mg tablets
How quickly does famotidine 20mg start working?
Famotidine usually begins to relieve symptoms within 15 to 30 minutes, with effects lasting up to 24 hours.
Can I take famotidine 20mg with other acid reducers?
Consult your doctor before combining famotidine with other acid-reducing medicines.
Is famotidine 20mg safe for long-term use?
It can be used long-term under medical supervision, but regular review is recommended.
Can I take famotidine 20mg if pregnant or breastfeeding?
Speak to your doctor before use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
Please take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s close to your next dose. Don’t double up.
Are there any foods or drinks to avoid?
Avoid alcohol as it may increase side effects.
Can famotidine 20mg cause drowsiness?
Famotidine does not usually cause drowsiness.
How should famotidine 20mg tablets be stored?
Store in a cool, dry place away from children.
What are the signs of an allergic reaction?
Stop taking famotidine and seek urgent medical help if you experience rash, swelling, or breathing difficulties.
How can I obtain Famotidine 20mg tablets from Courier Pharmacy?
Complete a quick online consultation. Our pharmacists will review your suitability and arrange fast, discreet delivery.
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