Pepcid with antibiotics: interactions and safety
Antibiotic courses are common, short-term and often combined with chronic medications such as Pepcid (Famotidine). Most antibiotics do not interfere meaningfully with Famotidine at 10mg, 20mg, 40mg, but a few classes do, and a small number of combinations are best avoided.
Common antibiotic interactions
Macrolides (clarithromycin, erythromycin) and certain antifungals can inhibit hepatic metabolism (CYP3A4) and raise plasma levels of many medications including some Gastrointestinal Medications agents. Rifampicin has the opposite effect, accelerating metabolism. Most penicillins, cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines have no clinically meaningful interaction with Famotidine at 10mg, 20mg, 40mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Famotidine, an antibiotic course should be reviewed by the prescriber or pharmacist for known interactions before Pepcid is co-administered. Adjusted 10mg, 20mg, 40mg dosing or temporary substitution is sometimes preferred for the duration of the antibiotic course.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Pepcid during an antibiotic course? ▾
For most common antibiotics, yes. A few classes — notably macrolides and azole antifungals — alter how Famotidine is metabolised and may need a temporary 10mg, 20mg, 40mg adjustment. The prescribing pharmacist should review any new antibiotic against the existing Pepcid regimen.
Will antibiotics make Pepcid stop working? ▾
Most antibiotics do not affect Pepcid efficacy. Rifampicin and a few others can lower Famotidine levels and reduce effect; in those cases the prescriber may adjust the dose during and shortly after the antibiotic course.
More on Pepcid
- With alcoholPepcid and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Pepcid be taken with food?
- Side effectsPepcid side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guidePepcid dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Pepcid start working?
- DurationHow long does Pepcid last?
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