Famotidine for Dogs: How Pepcid Can Treat Stomach Ulcers

Pepcid is the brand name for famotidine, a medication that can reduce stomach acid in people and dogs. If a veterinarian diagnoses a dog with a stomach ulcer, gastric reflux, or esophagitis, they may prescribe famotidine. 

Learn how Pepcid for dogs works, how it’s used, and what the proper dosage is. 

Pepcid for dogs at a glance

What is Pepcid for dogs, and how does it work?

Pepcid is the brand name for famotidine, a medication that reduces stomach acid in dogs. It works by blocking certain proteins (histamine-2 receptors) in the stomach that trigger acid production. 

An oral form of famotidine is available over the counter under the brand name Pepcid. Use of Pepcid in dogs is considered off-label in the U.S. 

What is Pepcid used for in dogs?

Veterinarians prescribe Pepcid to dogs to protect a dog’s stomach and esophagus from damage and reduce stomach acid. Conditions or situations that can cause irritation in a dog’s gastrointestinal (GI) tract include:

• Stomach ulcers

• Esophagitis or esophageal ulcers

• Gastric reflux

• Frequent vomiting

• Gastritis

• Toxin ingestion

• Parvovirus

What is the dosage of Pepcid for dogs, and how is it given?

Pepcid for dogs comes in several forms, including tablets, capsules, and an oral liquid. The dosage depends on a dog’s weight. It can range from 0.5 mg to 1 mg per kilogram of body weight every 24 hours. 

Sometimes veterinarians will recommend giving famotidine to a dog twice a day. Only give your dog Pepcid as prescribed by a veterinarian.

Most dogs take Pepcid without a problem. It doesn’t have a bitter taste, so it doesn’t cause drooling. Pepcid works best when given before your dog’s first meal of the day. But it can also be given with food. 

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There are also injectable and intravenous (IV) forms of famotidine available for dogs. These forms of the medication are typically used in veterinary settings.

Do not give Pepcid AC or Pepcid Complete to a dog. These formulations are made for humans and contain other active ingredients that aren’t safe for dogs. 

What are the common side effects of Pepcid in dogs?

Pepcid is considered safe for dogs when given orally at the correct dosage. This means most dogs won’t have side effects while taking famotidine. 

What are the most serious risks of Pepcid for dogs?

Dogs taking famotidine may face serious risks in certain situations. For instance, your dog could have an allergic reaction to the medication. An allergic reaction in dogs can lead to symptoms like: 

• Swollen face

• Hives

• Vomiting

• Lethargy

• Loss of appetite

If your dog has an allergic reaction to Pepcid, stop giving the medication. Consult a veterinarian or emergency clinic. Do not give Pepcid to a dog who is allergic to it or a dog who has had an allergic reaction to cimetidine, another stomach acid reducer.

When given rapidly in an IV, famotidine can cause a slow heart rate (bradycardia) in dogs. 

Does Pepcid interact with any other medications?

Pepcid can interact with other medications your dog takes, including:

• Antifungals like fluconazole or ketoconazole

• Antibiotics, such as cefpodoxime and Ceftin

• Dichlorphenamide

• Iron supplements

• Other antacids

Tell your veterinarian about medications, supplements, herbs, or vitamins you give your dog. 

What should you do if your dog misses a dose of Pepcid?

If you miss giving your dog a dose of Pepcid, give the next dose as soon as you remember. Then, resume your regular dosing schedule. 

If it’s close to the time when the next dose is due, skip the missed dose and give the next dose at the regular time. Never double up doses to catch up.

Why trust our experts?

Written by:

Sarah J. Wooten, DVM, CVJ

Dr. Sarah Wooten, DVM, CVJ, is a well-known international influencer in the veterinary and animal healthcare spaces. She has 16 years of experience in private practice and more than 15 years experience in veterinary media work.

Edited by:

Renée Fabian, MA

Renée Fabian is the senior pet health editor at GoodRx. She’s worked for nearly 10 years as a journalist and editor across a wide range of health and well-being topics.

Reviewed by:

Ghanasyam Bey, DVM

Ghanasyam Bey, DVM, is from Cleveland, Ohio, and attended Princeton University for undergraduate studies. After a year of biology research at Duke University, he attended Ohio State College of Veterinary Medicine.

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