Ranitidine vs Famotidine: Which Acid Reducer is Safer and More Effective?
Brand Names
Zantac, others
Pepcid, others
Drug Class
H2 blocker
H2 blocker
FDA Approval
1983
1986
Indications
GERD – Ulcers – Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
GERD – Ulcers – Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
Mechanism of Action
Reduces stomach acid by blocking H2 receptors on acid-producing cells in the stomach
Similar to Ranitidine
Dosage Forms
Tablet, injectable, syrup
Tablet, injectable, chewable, syrup
Side Effects
Headache – Dizziness – Constipation – Nausea/vomiting
Headache – Dizziness – Constipation – Nausea/vomiting
Pregnancy Category
Category B
Category B
Drug Interactions
Warfarin – Theophylline – Alcohol
– Warfarin – Theophylline – Alcohol
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to ranitidine or components
Hypersensitivity to famotidine or components
Considerations
Can affect liver enzyme levels and impact other medications
Generally has fewer CNS side effects compared to ranitidine
Availability
Note: Ranitidine has been pulled from many markets due to potential carcinogen presence
Widely available
Common Dosages
150 mg twice daily or 300 mg at bedtime
20 mg twice daily or 40 mg at bedtime