NURS 1566 Clinical Medication Worksheet

Generic Name Trade Name Classification Dose Route Time/frequency

Famotidine Pepcid Antiulcer 20 mg IV BID
agent
Peak Onset Duration Normal Dosage Range

0.5 – 3 hr Within 60 min. 8-15 hr 20 mg Q 12 hr

Why is your patient getting this medication: For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and /or
solutions
This medication may be used for treatment of active No known incompatibility
duodenal ulcers, GERD, and for maintenance of
duodenal and gastric ulcers.

Mechanism of action and indications: Nursing Implications (what to focus on)

Contraindications/warnings/interactions
Inhibits the action of histamine at the H2 – receptor site Geriatric patients more susceptible to adverse CNS
located primarily in gastric parietal cells, resulting in reaction. Assess routinely for confusion.
inhibition of gastric acid secretion.
Common side effects:
CNS: Confusion, dizziness, drowsiness
CV: Arrhythmias
GI: Constipation, diarrhea, nausea
Endo: Gynecomastia
Hemat: Agranulocytosis, aplastic anemia
Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or Lab value alterations caused by medicine:
herbal medicines (ask patient specifically): Monitor CBC with differential periodically during therapy.
Famotidine has a small effect on the metabolism of May cause increase in serum transaminases and serum
other drugs creatinine. May cause false-positive results for urine
protein; test with sulfosalicylic acid.

Be sure to teach the patient the following about this

medication:
May cause drowsiness or dizziness. Increased fluid and
fiber intake may minimize constipation. Report black tarry
stools, fever, sore throat, diarrhea, dizziness, rash,
confusion and hallucinations.

Nursing Process- Assessment Assessment Evaluation

(Pre-administration) Why would you hold or not give this Check after giving
Assess for epigastric or abdominal pain and med? Decrease in abdominal pain
frank or occult blood in the stool, emesis, or Hypersensitivity, onset of confusion and decreased symptoms of
gastric aspirate. and GI symptoms esophageal reflux.