What is the brand name for Famotidine?
The brand name for Famotidine is Pepcid.
PTCE Top 200 · #33
Famotidine
Pepcid
Famotidine is the generic name for the brand-name drug Pepcid. It is a h2 blocker used to treat GERD, heartburn. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Famotidine ranks #33 and is one of the most frequently tested gastrointestinal medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Famotidine |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Pepcid |
| Drug class | H2 blocker |
| Class group | Gastrointestinal |
| Common use | GERD, heartburn |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Both prescription and OTC |
What is Famotidine used for?
H2‑blocker that decreases stomach acid; used for heartburn/GERD and for certain ulcer conditions (product‑specific).
What drug class is Famotidine?
Famotidine is a H2 blocker in the Gastrointestinal group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Famotidine
- arrow_rightHeadache
- arrow_rightDizziness
- arrow_rightConstipation
- arrow_rightDiarrhea
Major interactions
- arrow_rightMay reduce absorption of drugs needing acidic pH (less than PPIs but possible)
- arrow_rightTizanidine levels can increase with some H2 blockers (mainly cimetidine; famotidine minimal)
- arrow_rightSeparate from antacids if needed for symptom control
Is Famotidine a controlled substance?
No. Famotidine is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
How to remember Famotidine (PTCE mnemonic)
PEP-cid PEPs down acid — famoti-DINE = H2 blocker (not PPI). Faster than PPI, weaker than PPI; renal dose-adjust; OTC at 20mg.
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
The suffix -tidine = an H2 blocker. Famotidine (Pepcid) is a step below PPIs like omeprazole — a frequent 'which class' distinction.
Famotidine FAQ
What is Famotidine used for?
Famotidine is used to treat GERD, heartburn. H2‑blocker that decreases stomach acid; used for heartburn/GERD and for certain ulcer conditions (product‑specific).
What drug class is Famotidine?
Famotidine is a H2 blocker (Gastrointestinal group).
Is Famotidine a controlled substance?
No. Famotidine is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the Gastrointestinal group
Drill Famotidine the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).