famotidine

Disclaimer to the Online Edition

This Manual has been designed for use in the NICU at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC), London, Ontario, Canada, and represents clinical practice at this institution. The information contained within the Manual may not be applicable to other centres. If users of this Manual are not familiar with a drug, it is recommended that the official monograph be consulted before it is prescribed and administered. Any user of this information is advised that the contributors, Editor and LHSC are not responsible for any errors or omissions, and / or any consequences arising from the use of the information in this Manual.

famotidine

Indication

  • Histamine H2-receptor blocking agent used in the prevention and treatment of stress ulcers and GI bleeding aggravated by gastric acid secretion

Dosing Guidelines

0.25-0.5 mg/kg/dose IV q24 hours

Administration

  • IV direct over 3-5 minutes
  • To make 5 mL of a 2 mg/mL solution:
    1. Draw up 1 mL of the 10 mg/mL injection
    2. Add to 4 mL D5W (Final concentration = 2 mg/mL)
  • Maximum concentration for IV direct administration is 4 mg/mL

Adverse Effects

  • Agitation, diarrhea
  • H2-blocker therapy associated with higher incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis in very low birth-weight infants

Comments

  • Reduce dose in renal impairment
  • Onset of effect within 1 hour

Supplied As

10 mg/mL vial – must be further diluted prior to IV direct administration

References

Lexi Sick Kids and Lexi Pediatric/Neonates