NERHAFLUKS 20 MG ( FAMOTIDINE ) 20 ORO-DISPERSIBLE FILMS

Generic Name:
Famotidine

Dosage Form:
Orodispersible film (ODF)

Pharmacological Classification:
Histamine H₂-Receptor Antagonist

Indications:

• Treatment of duodenal ulcers
• Benign gastric ulcers
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
• Prophylaxis of NSAID-induced ulcers
• Treatment of heartburn, acid indigestion, sour stomach

Mechanism of Action:
Famotidine inhibits histamine at H₂ receptors of the gastric parietal cells, thereby reducing gastric acid secretion (both basal and stimulated).

Pharmacokinetics:
Absorption: Rapidly absorbed; bioavailability ~40–45%

Onset of Action: Within 1 hour

Peak Plasma Time: 1–3 hours

Duration: 10–12 hours

Metabolism: Minimal hepatic metabolism

Excretion: Renal (65–70% unchanged)

Advantages of Orodispersible Film (ODF):

• No need for water for administration
• Improved compliance, especially in pediatric and geriatric populations
• Rapid onset due to mucosal absorption
• Ease of administration for dysphagic or bedridden patients

Dosage & Administration:

• Adults: 10–20 mg once or twice daily, depending on indication
• Pediatrics: Use under specialist guidance; dosing depends on weight and indication
• Administer by placing film on the tongue; allow it to dissolve and swallow the saliva; do not chew or swallow whole

Contraindications:

• Hypersensitivity to famotidine or other H₂ antagonists

Warnings & Precautions:

• Use with caution in renal impairment (dose adjustment needed)
• Assess for gastric malignancy if symptoms persist
• May mask symptoms of gastric cancer

Adverse Effects:

• Common: Headache, dizziness, constipation, diarrhea
• Rare: Confusion, arrhythmia, thrombocytopenia, hypersensitivity reactions

Drug Interactions:

• Reduced absorption of drugs that require acidic pH (e.g., ketoconazole, atazanavir)
• May affect results of secretin stimulation test

Storage:

• Store in a cool, dry place below 25°C
• Protect from moisture and light

Write a review