What is the brand name for Famotidine?
The brand name for Famotidine is Pepcid.
PTCB 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).
Study guides that cover Famotidine
Free, in-depth guides to the patterns behind this drug — no app needed.
Drug suffix cheat sheetthe suffix that gives away this drug's class
How to memorize the Top 200 drugsa method for locking in brand↔generic pairs
How hard is the PTCE?what the pass rate really means
Failed the PTCB? The comeback planwhat to do if the first attempt failsSee all PTCE study guides or browse the full Top 200 drug list.
Drill Famotidine the way the PTCE asks it
RxReflex turns the Top 200 drugs into fast flashcard rounds, a guided Learn path, pharmacy math, and 40+ cheat sheets. Free to start.
Related drugs in the Gastrointestinal group
Last reviewed August 7, 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).