FAMOTIDINE powder, for suspension

FAMOTIDINE by

Drug Labeling and Warnings

FAMOTIDINE by is a Prescription medication manufactured, distributed, or labeled by Biocon Pharma Inc., Carnegie Pharmaceuticals LLC. Drug facts, warnings, and ingredients follow.

Drug Details [pdf]

  • 1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE

    Famotidine for oral suspension is indicated in adults for the treatment of:

    • active duodenal ulcer (DU).
    • active gastric ulcer (GU).
    • symptomatic nonerosive gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
    • erosive esophagitis due to GERD, diagnosed by biopsy.
    • treatment of pathological hypersecretory conditions (e.g., Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, multiple endocrine neoplasias).
    • reduction of the risk of duodenal ulcer recurrence.

    Famotidine for oral suspension is indicated in pediatric patients 1 year of age and older for the treatment of:

    • peptic ulcer disease.
    • GERD with or without esophagitis and ulcerations. 

    Famotidine for oral suspension is indicated in pediatric patients from birth to less than 1 year of age for the treatment of:

    • GERD.
  • 2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

    2.1 Recommended Dosage in Adults

    The recommended dosage and duration of Famotidine for oral suspension in adults with normal renal function is shown in Table 1.

    Table 1: Recommended Dosage and Duration of Famotidine for Oral Suspension in Adults with Normal Renal Function

    Indication

    Recommended Dosage

    Recommended Duration

    Active DU

    40 mg once daily; or 20 mg twice dailyb

    Up to 8 weeksc,d

    Active GU

    40 mg once daily

    Up to 8 weeksd

    Symptomatic nonerosive GERD

    20 mg twice daily

    Up to 6 weeksd

    Erosive esophagitis due to GERD, diagnosed by endoscopy

    20 mg twice daily; or 40 mg twice dailyb

    Up to 12 weeks

    Pathological hypersecretory conditions

    Starting dosage: 20 mg every 6 hours; adjust dosage to individual patient needs

    Maximum dosage 160 mg every 6 hours

    As clinically indicated

    Reduction of the risk of DU recurrence

    20 mg once daily

    1 yearc,d or as clinically indicated

    a After preparation, the concentration of famotidine oral suspension is 8 mg/mL [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION (2.3)]

    b Both dosages demonstrated effectiveness in clinical trials [see CLINICAL STUDIES (14)].

    c In clinical trials, the majority of patients healed within 4 weeks. For patients who do not heal after 4 weeks, consider an additional 2 to 4 weeks of treatment [see CLINICAL STUDIES (14.1)].

    d Longer treatment durations have not been studied in clinical trials [see CLINICAL STUDIES (14.1, 14.2, 14.3)].

    2.2 Recommended Dosage in Pediatric Patient

    The recommended dosage and duration of famotidine for oral suspension in pediatric patients with normal renal function is shown in Table 2.

    Table 2: Recommended Dosage and Duration of Famotidine for Oral Suspensiona in Pediatric Patients with Normal Renal Function

    Indication

    Pediatric Age Range

    Recommended Dosage

    Duration

    Peptic Ulcer Disease

    1 year to less than 17 years

    Starting dosage 0.5 mg/kg once daily; or 0.25 mg/kg twice daily.

    May increase to 1 mg/kg once daily at bedtime or 0.5 mg/kg twice daily

    Maximum of 40 mg per day

    8 weeksb

    GERD

    Birth to less than 3 months

    Starting dosage 0.5 mg/kg once daily. May increase to 1 mg/kg once daily

    Up to 8 weeksb,c,d

    3 months to less than 1 year

    Starting dosage 0.5 mg/kg twice daily. May increase to 1 mg/kg twice dailyc

    Maximum of 40 mg per day

    GERD with or without esophagitis and ulcerations

    1 year to less than 17 years

    0.5 mg/kg twice daily

    Maximum of 40 mg twice daily

    6 to 12 weeksb

    a After preparation, the concentration of famotidine oral suspension is 8 mg/mL [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION (2.3)]

    b Treatment duration based on adult recommendations (see Table 1). Individualize the dose and duration based upon clinical response an/or pH determinations (gastric or esophageal) and endoscopy.

    c Use conservative measures (e.g., thickened feedings) concurrently [see USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS (8.4)].

    d After 4 weeks of treatment re-evaluate the patient. Consider an additional 4 weeks of treatment if treatment benefit outweighs potential risks.

    2.3 Recommended Dosage in Adults with Renal Impairment

    Recommended dosage adjustments for adults with moderate to severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance less than 60 mL/min) by indication are shown in Table 3. Use the lowest effective dosage [see USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS (8.6)].

    A safe and effective dosage has not been established in pediatric patients with renal impairment.

    Table 3: Recommended Maximum Dosage of Famotidine for Oral Suspension in Adults with Moderate and Severe Renal Impairment

    Indication

    Recommended Maximum Dosages

    Creatinine clearance 30 to 60 mL/minute

    Creatinine clearance less than 30 mL/minute

    Active DU

    20 mg once daily; or 40 mg every other day

    10 mg once daily; or 20 mg every other day

    Active GU

    20 mg once daily; or 40 mg every other day

    10 mg once daily; or 20 mg every other day

    Symptomatic nonerosive GERD

    20 mg once daily

    10 mg once daily; or 20 mg every other day

    Erosive esophagitis due to GERD, diagnosed by endoscopya

    20 mg once daily; or 40 mg every other dayb

    40 mg once dailyb

    10 mg once daily; or 20 mg every other dayb

    20 mg once dailyb

    Pathological hypersecretory conditions

    Avoid useb

    Reduction of the risk of DU recurrence

    10 mg once daily; or 20 mg every other day

    10 mg every other day

    a Dosage adjustments for renal impairment are provided for both dosing regimens (20 mg twice daily and 40 mg twice daily) which showed effectiveness for the treatment of erosive esophagitis in clinical trials [see CLINICAL STUDIES (14.4)].

    b The dosage required to treat pathological hypersecretory conditions may exceed the maximum dosage evaluated in patients with impaired renal function. The risk for increased adverse reactions in renally impaired patients treated with famotidine for oral suspension for pathological hypersecretory conditions is unknown.

    2.4 Administration Instructions

    Preparation of Constituted Suspension by a Healthcare Provider Prior to Dispensing

    • Prior to dispensing, constitute famotidine for oral suspension by slowly adding 46 mL of Purified Water to the bottle. Shake vigorously for 5 to 10 seconds immediately after adding the water.
    • The constituted suspension contains 40 mg of famotidine per 5 mL, and should be a smooth, mobile, white to off-white, and homogeneous suspension. 

    Administration and Storage of Constituted Suspension

    • Shake the bottle of constituted famotidine for oral suspension vigorously for 5 to 10 seconds prior to each use.
    • Take famotidine for oral suspension once daily before bedtime or twice daily in the morning and before bedtime, as recommended.
    • Famotidine for oral suspension may be taken with or without food [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY (12.3)].
    • Famotidine for oral suspension may be given with antacids.
    • Store the constituted suspension at 25°C (77°F). Protect from freezing. Discard unused constituted suspension after 30 days.
  • 3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS

    For Oral Suspension: 400 mg as a white to off-white powder. When constituted as directed, famotidine for oral suspension USP is a white to off-white powder forming a white to off-white suspension with characteristic odor, containing 40 mg of famotidine per 5 mL.

  • 4 CONTRAINDICATIONS

    Famotidine for oral suspension is contraindicated in patients with a history of serious hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis) to famotidine or other histamine-2 (H2) receptor antagonists.

  • 5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

    5.1 Central Nervous System Adverse Reactions

    Central nervous system (CNS) adverse reactions, including confusion, delirium, hallucinations, disorientation, agitation, seizures, and lethargy, have been reported in elderly patients and patients with moderate and severe renal impairment treated with famotidine. Since famotidine blood levels are higher in patients with renal impairment than in patients with normal renal function, dosage adjustments are recommended in patients with renal impairment [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION (2.2),CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY (12.3)].

    5.2 Concurrent Gastric Malignancy

    In adults, symptomatic response to therapy with famotidine for oral suspension does not preclude the presence of gastric malignancy. Consider evaluation for gastric malignancy in adult patients who have a suboptimal response or an early symptomatic relapse after completing treatment with famotidine for oral suspension.

  • 6 ADVERSE REACTIONS

    6.1 Clinical Trial Experience

    Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.

    The safety of famotidine for oral suspension has been established based on adequate and well-controlled studies of another oral famotidine product [see CLINICAL STUDIES (14)]. The following is a summary of the adverse reactions reported in those studies.

    Oral famotidine was studied in 7 US and international placebo- and active-controlled trials in approximately 2500 patients [see CLINICAL STUDIES (14)]. A total of 1442 patients were treated with famotidine, including 302 treated with 40 mg twice daily, 456 treated with 20 mg twice daily, 461 treated with 40 mg once daily, and 396 treated with 20 mg once daily. The population was 17 to 91 years old, fairly well distributed between sex and race; however, the predominant race was Caucasian.

    The following adverse reactions occurred in greater than or equal to 1% of famotidine-treated patients: headache, dizziness and constipation.

    The following other adverse reactions were reported in less than 1% of patients in clinical trials:

    Body as a Whole: fever, asthenia, fatigue

    Cardiovascular: palpitations

    Gastrointestinal: elevated liver enzymes, vomiting, nausea, abdominal discomfort, anorexia, dry mouth

    Hematologic: thrombocytopenia

    Hypersensitivity: orbital edema, rash, conjunctival injection, bronchospasm

    Musculoskeletal: musculoskeletal pain, arthralgia

    Nervous System/Psychiatric: seizure, hallucinations, depression, anxiety, decreased libido, insomnia, somnolence

    Skin: pruritus, dry skin, flushing 

    Special Senses: tinnitus, taste disorder 

    Other: impotence

    Pediatric Patients Less Than One Year of Age

    In a clinical study in 35 pediatric patients less than 1 year of age with GERD symptoms, two patients discontinued due to adverse reactions. Agitation observed in 5 patients resolved when famotidine was discontinued [see USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS (8.4)].

    6.2 Postmarketing Experience

    The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of famotidine. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.

    Cardiovascular: arrhythmia, AV block, prolonged QT interval

    Gastrointestinal: cholestatic jaundice, hepatitis

    Hematologic: agranulocytosis, pancytopenia, leukopenia 

    Hypersensitivity: anaphylaxis, angioedema, facial edema, urticaria

    Musculoskeletal: rhabdomyolysis, muscle cramps

    Nervous System/Psychiatric: confusion, agitation, paresthesia

    Respiratory: interstitial pneumonia

    Skin: toxic epidermal necrolysis/Stevens-Johnson syndrome

  • 7 DRUG INTERACTIONS

    7.1 Drugs Dependent on Gastric pH for Absorption

    Famotidine can reduce the absorption of other drugs, due to its effect on reducing intragastric acidity, leading to loss of efficacy of the concomitant drug.

    Concomitant administration of famotidine for oral suspension with dasatinib, delavirdine mesylate, cefditoren, and fosamprenavir is not recommended.

    See the prescribing information for other drugs dependent on gastric pH for absorption for administration instructions, including atazanavir, erlotinib, ketoconazole, itraconazole, ledipasvir/sofosbuvir, nilotinib, and rilpivirine.

    7.2 Tizanidine (CYP1A2 Substrate)

    Although not studied clinically, famotidine is considered a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor and may lead to substantial increases in blood concentrations of tizanidine, a CYP1A2 substrate. Avoid concomitant use with famotidine for oral suspension. If concomitant use is necessary, monitor for hypotension, bradycardia or excessive drowsiness. Refer to the full prescribing information for tizanidine.

  • 8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS

    8.1 Pregnancy

    Risk Summary

    Available data with H2-receptor antagonists, including famotidine, in pregnant women are insufficient to establish a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. In animal reproduction studies, no adverse development effects were observed with oral administration of famotidine at doses up to approximately 243 and 122 times, respectively, the recommended human dose of 80 mg per day for the treatment of erosive esophagitis (see Data).

    The estimated background risk for major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively.

    Data

    Animal Data:

    Reproductive studies have been performed in rats and rabbits at oral doses of up to 2000 and 500 mg/kg/day, respectively, and in both species at intravenous doses of up to 200 mg/kg/day, and have revealed no significant evidence of impaired fertility or harm to the fetus due to famotidine. While no direct fetotoxic effects have been observed, sporadic abortions occurring only in mothers displaying marked decreased food intake were seen in some rabbits at oral doses of 200 mg/kg/day (about 49 times the recommended human dose of 80 mg per day, based on body surface area) or higher. There are, however, no adequate or well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproductive studies are not always predictive of human response, this drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.

    8.2 Lactation

    Risk Summary

    There are limited data available on the presence of famotidine in human breast milk. There were no effects on the breastfed infant. There are no data on famotidine effects on milk production. Famotidine is present in the milk of lactating rats (see Data).

    The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for famotidine and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from famotidine for oral suspension or from the underlying maternal condition.

    Data

    Animal Data:

    Transient growth depression was observed in young rats suckling from mothers treated with maternotoxic doses of famotidine at least 600 times the usual human dose.

    8.4 Pediatric Use

    Peptic Ulcer Disease and GERD With or Without Esophagitis and Ulcerations

    Pediatric Patients One Year to Less than 17 Years of Age:

    The safety and effectiveness of famotidine for oral suspension have been established in pediatric patients 1 year to less than 17 years of age for the treatment of peptic ulcer disease and GERD with or without esophagitis and ulcerations. Use of famotidine in this age group is supported by evidence from adequate and well-controlled studies of famotidine in adults with additional pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data in pediatric patients 1 year to less than 17 years of age [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION (2.1),CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY (12.2,12.3)]. The safety and effectiveness of famotidine for oral suspension for the treatment of peptic ulcer disease in pediatric patients less than one year of age have not been established.

    GERD

    Pediatric Patients Less Than One Year of Age:

    The safety and effectiveness of famotidine for oral suspension have been established in pediatric patients from birth to less than 1 year of age for the treatment of GERD. The use of famotidine this is age group is supported by evidence from adequate and well-controlled studies of famotidine in adults and with supportive data in pediatric patients from birth to less than 1 year of age [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION (2.1),CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY (12.2,12.3),CLINICAL STUDIES (14.7)].

    Other Conditions

    The safety and effectiveness for the treatment of pathological hypersecretory conditions and reduction of risk of duodenal ulcer recurrence have not been established in pediatric patients.

    A safe and effective dosage has not been established in pediatric patients with renal impairment.

    8.5 Geriatric Use

    Of the 1442 famotidine-treated patients in clinical studies, approximately 10% were 65 and older. In these studies, no overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between elderly and younger patients. In postmarketing experience, CNS adverse reactions have been reported in elderly patients with and without renal impairment receiving famotidine [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS (5.1)].

    Famotidine is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney, and the risk of adverse reactions to famotidine for oral suspension may be greater in elderly patients, particularly those with impaired renal function [see USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS (8.6)].

    In general, use the lowest effective dose of famotidine for oral suspension for an elderly patient and monitor renal function [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION (2.2)].

    8.6 Renal Impairment

    CNS adverse reactions and prolonged QT intervals have been reported in patients with moderate and severe renal impairment [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS (5.1)]. The clearance of famotidine is reduced in adults with moderate and severe renal impairment compared to adults with normal renal function [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY (12.3)]. No dosage adjustment is needed in adults with mild renal impairment (creatinine clearance greater than or equal to 60 mL/minute). Dosage reduction is recommended in adults with moderate or severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance less than 60 mL/minute) [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION (2.3)]. Data are not available to establish a safe and effective dosage in pediatric patients with renal impairment.

  • 10 OVERDOSAGE

    The types of adverse reactions in overdosage of famotidine are similar to the adverse reactions encountered with use of recommended dosages [see ADVERSE REACTIONS (6.1)].

    In the event of overdosage, treatment should be symptomatic and supportive. Unabsorbed material should be removed from the gastrointestinal tract, the patient should be monitored, and supportive therapy should be employed.

    Due to low binding to plasma proteins, famotidine is eliminated by hemodialysis. There is limited experience on the usefulness of hemodialysis as a treatment for famotidine overdosage.

  • 11 DESCRIPTION

    The active ingredient in famotidine for oral suspension USP is a histamine-2 (H2) receptor antagonist. Famotidine is N'-(aminosulfonyl)-3-[[[2-[(diaminomethylene)amino]-4-thiazolyl]methyl]thio]propanimidamide. The empirical formula of famotidine is C8H15N7O2S3 and its molecular weight is 337.45. Its structural formula is:

    chemstructure

    Each 5 mL of famotidine for oral suspension USP when prepared as directed contains 40 mg of famotidine and the following inactive ingredients: anhydrous citric acid, powdered cellulose, sucrose, xanthan gum and banana, cherry and mint flavor. Added as preservatives are methylparaben sodium, propylparaben sodium and sodium benzoate.

    Famotidine is a white to pale yellowish-white crystalline powder that is freely soluble in dimethyl formamide and glacial acetic acid; slightly soluble in methanol; very slightly soluble in water; and practically insoluble in chloroform, ether and ethyl acetate.

  • 12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY

    12.1 Mechanism of Action

    Famotidine is a competitive inhibitor of histamine-2 (H2) receptors. The primary clinically important pharmacologic activity of famotidine is inhibition of gastric secretion. Both the acid concentration and volume of gastric secretion are suppressed by famotidine, while changes in pepsin secretion are proportional to volume output.

    12.2 Pharmacodynamics

    Adults

    Famotidine inhibited both basal and nocturnal gastric secretion, as well as secretion stimulated by food and pentagastrin. After oral administration of famotidine, the onset of the antisecretory effect occurred within one hour; the maximum effect was dose-dependent, occurring within one to three hours. Duration of inhibition of secretion by doses of 20 mg and 40 mg was 10 to 12 hours.

    Single evening oral doses of 20 mg and 40 mg inhibited basal and nocturnal acid secretion in all subjects; mean nocturnal gastric acid secretion was inhibited by 86% and 94%, respectively, for a period of at least 10 hours. The same doses given in the morning suppressed food-stimulated acid secretion in all subjects. The mean suppression was 76% and 84%, respectively, 3 to 5 hours after administration, and 25% and 30%, respectively, 8 to 10 hours after administration. In some subjects who received the 20 mg dose, however, the antisecretory effect was dissipated within 6 to 8 hours. There was no cumulative effect with repeated doses. The nocturnal intragastric pH was raised by evening doses of 20 mg and 40 mg of famotidine to mean values of 5.0 and 6.4, respectively. When famotidine was given after breakfast, the basal daytime interdigestive pH at 3 and 8 hours after 20 mg or 40 mg of famotidine was raised to about 5.

    Famotidine had little or no effect on fasting or postprandial serum gastrin levels. Gastric emptying and exocrine pancreatic function were not affected by famotidine.

    In clinical pharmacology studies, systemic effects of famotidine in the CNS, cardiovascular, respiratory or endocrine systems were not noted. Also, no anti-androgenic effects were noted. Serum hormone levels, including prolactin, cortisol, thyroxine (T4), and testosterone, were not altered after treatment with famotidine.

    Pediatric Patients

    Pharmacodynamics of famotidine, assessed by gastric pH, were evaluated in 5 pediatric patients 2 years to 13 years of age using the sigmoid Emax model. These data suggest that the relationship between serum concentration of famotidine and gastric acid suppression is similar to that observed in adults (see Table 4).

    Table 4: Serum Concentrations of Famotidine Associated with Gastric Acid Reduction in Famotidine- Treated Pediatric and Adult Patients

    EC50(ng/mL)a

    Pediatric Patients

    26 ± 13

    Adults

         Healthy adult subjects

    26.5 ± 10.3

         Adult patients with upper GI bleeding

    18.7 ± 10.8

    a Using the Sigmoid Emax model, serum concentrations of famotidine associated with 50% maximum gastric acid reduction are presented as means ± SD.


    In a study examining the effect of famotidine on gastric pH and duration of acid suppression in pediatric patients, four pediatric patients ages 11 to 15 years of age using the oral formulation at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg, maintained a gastric pH above 5 for 13.5 ± 1.8 hours.

    12.3 Pharmacokinetics

    Absorption

    Famotidine is incompletely absorbed. The bioavailability of oral doses is 40 to 45%. Bioavailability may be slightly increased by food, or slightly decreased by antacids; however, these effects are of no clinical consequence.

    Peak famotidine plasma levels occur in 1 to 3 hours. Plasma levels after multiple dosages are similar to those after single doses.

    Distribution

    Fifteen to 20% of famotidine in plasma is protein bound.

    Elimination

    Metabolism:

    Famotidine undergoes minimal first-pass metabolism. Twenty-five to 30% of an oral dose was recovered in the urine as unchanged compound. The only metabolite identified in humans is the S-oxide.

    Excretion:

    Famotidine has an elimination half-life of 2.5 to 3.5 hours. Famotidine is eliminated by renal (65 to 70%) and metabolic (30 to 35%) routes. Renal clearance is 250 to 450 mL/minute, indicating some tubular excretion.

    Specific Populations

    Pediatric Patients:

    Infants from birth to 12 Months

    After a single oral dose administration of 0.5 mg/kg orally in patients from birth to 12 months, the bioavailability is approximately 42%.

    The AUC increased 1.4-fold after single oral dose of 1 mg/kg compared to 0.5 mg/kg and 2.7-fold after multiple oral doses of 1 mg/kg compared to 0.5 mg/kg.

    Plasma clearance is reduced and elimination half-life is prolonged in pediatric patients from birth to 3 months of age compared to older pediatric patients. Following intravenous administration of 0.5 mg/kg, CLTotal was 0.13 ± 0.06 L/hr/kg, 0.21 ± 0.06 L/hr/kg, and 0.49 ± 0.17 L/hr/kg in pediatric patients <1 month of age, <3 months of age, and >3 to 12 months of age, respectively. Elimination half-life was 10.5 hours, 8.1 hours, and 4.5 hours in pediatric patients <1 month of age, <3 months of age, and >3 to 12 months of age, respectively.

    Patients 11 Years to 15 Years

    The mean bioavailability in 8 pediatric patients was 50% compared to adult values of 42% to 49%.

    Pharmacokinetic parameters in pediatrics 11 years to 15 years is compared to infants from birth to 12 months in Table 5.

    Table 5: Mean Pharmacokinetic Parameters Following a Single Oral Dose of 0.5 mg/kg in Infants and Pediatric Patients

    Infants

    from Birth to 12 Months (N=5)

    Pediatric Patients 11 Years to 15 Years (N=8)

    AUC0 to∞ (ng*hr/mL)a

    645 ± 249

    580 ± 60

    Cmax (ng/mL)

    79.2

    97.3

    Tmax (hr)b

    2.0 (1.0, 4.1)c

    2.3 (2.1, 2.9)d

    T1/2(hr)

    5.82

    2.13

    a arithmetic mean ± S.D.

    b median

    c observed minimum and maximum values

    d reported minimum and maximum values

    Patients with Renal Impairment:

    In adult patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance less than 30 mL/minute), the systemic exposure (AUC) of famotidine increased at least 5-fold. In adult patients with moderate renal impairment (creatinine clearance between 30 to 60 mL/minute), the AUC of famotidine increased at least 2-fold [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION (2.3), USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS (8.6)].

    Drug Interaction Studies

    Human Organic Anion Transporter (OAT) 1 and 3:

    In vitro studies indicate that famotidine is a substrate for OAT1 and OAT3. Following coadministration of probenecid (1500 mg), an inhibitor of OAT1 and OAT3, with a single oral 20 mg dose of famotidine in 8 healthy subjects, the serum AUC0 to 10h of famotidine increased from 424 to 768 nghr/mL and the maximum serum concentration (Cmax) increased from 73 to 113 ng/mL. Renal clearance, urinary excretion rate and amount of famotidine excreted unchanged in urine were decreased. The clinical relevance of this interaction is unknown.

    Multidrug and Toxin Extrusion Protein 1 (MATE-1): 

    An in vitro study showed that famotidine is an inhibitor of MATE-1. However, no clinically significant interaction with metformin, a substrate for MATE-1, was observed.

    CYP1A2: 

    Famotidine is a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor.

  • 13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY

    13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

    Carcinogenic potential of famotidine was assessed in a 106-week oral carcinogenicity study in rats and a 92-week oral carcinogenicity study in mice. In the 106-week study in rats and the 92-week study in mice at oral doses of up to 2000 mg/kg/day (approximately 243 and 122 times, respectively, based on body surface area, the recommended human dose of 80 mg per day for the treatment of erosive esophagitis), there was no evidence of carcinogenic potential for famotidine.

    Famotidine was negative in the microbial mutagen test (Ames test) using Salmonella typhimurium and Escherichia coli with or without rat liver enzyme activation at concentrations up to 10,000 mcg/plate. In in vivo studies in mice, with a micronucleus test and a chromosomal aberration test, no evidence of a mutagenic effect was observed.

    In studies with rats given oral doses of up to 2000 mg/kg/day (approximately 243 times, based on body surface area, the recommended human dose of 80 mg per day) fertility and reproductive performance were not affected.

  • 14 CLINICAL STUDIES

    The safety and effectiveness of famotidine for oral suspension have been established based on adequate and well-controlled studies of another oral famotidine product. The following is a summary of the efficacy results reported in those studies.

    14.1 Active Duodenal Ulcer

    In a U.S. multicenter, double-blind trial in adult outpatients with endoscopically confirmed duodenal ulcer (DU), orally administered famotidine was compared to placebo. As shown in Table 6, 70% of patients treated with famotidine 40 mg at bedtime were healed by Week 4. Most patients DU healed within 4 weeks.

    Patients not healed by Week 4 were continued in the trial. By Week 8, 83% of patients treated with famotidine had healed DU, compared to 45% of patients treated with placebo. The incidence of DU healing with famotidine was greater than with placebo at each time point based on proportion of endoscopically confirmed healed DUs. Trials have not assessed the safety of famotidine in uncomplicated active DU for periods of more than 8 weeks.

    Table 6: Patients with Endoscopically Confirmed Healed Duodenal Ulcers

    Famotidine

    40 mg at bedtime (N=89)

    Famotidine

    20 mg twice daily (N=84)

    Placebo

    at bedtime

    (N=97)

    Week 2

    32%a

    38%a

    17%

    Week 4

    70%a

    67% a

    31%

    ap<0.001 vs. placebo

    In this study, time to relief of daytime and nocturnal pain was shorter for patients receiving famotidine than for patients receiving placebo; patients receiving famotidine also took less antacid than patients receiving placebo.

    14.2 Active Gastric Ulcer

    In both a U.S. and an international multicenter, double-blind trials in patients with endoscopically confirmed active gastric ulcer (GU), orally administered famotidine 40 mg at bedtime was compared to placebo. Antacids were permitted during the trials, but consumption was not significantly different between the famotidine and placebo groups.

    As shown in Table 7, the incidence of GU healing confirmed by endoscopy (dropouts counted as unhealed) with famotidine was greater than placebo at Weeks 6 and 8 in the U.S. trial, and at Weeks 4, 6 and 8 in the international trial.

    In these trials, most famotidine-treated patients healed within 6 weeks. Trials have not assessed the safety of famotidine in uncomplicated active GU for periods of more than 8 weeks.

    Table 7: Patients with Endoscopically Confirmed Healed Gastric Ulcers

    U.S. Study (N=149)

    International Study (N=294)

    Famotidine

    40 mg at bedtime (N=74)

    Placebo

    at bedtime (N=75)

    Famotidine

    40 mg at bedtime (N=149)

    Placebo

    at bedtime (N=145)

    Week 4

    45%

    39%

    47% a

    31%

    Week 6

    66%a

    44%

    65% a

    46%

    Week 8

    78%b

    64%

    80% a

    54%

    a p≤0.01 vs. placebo

    b p≤0.05 vs. placebo

    Time to complete relief of daytime and nighttime pain was statistically significantly shorter for patients receiving famotidine than for patients receiving placebo; however, neither trial demonstrated a statistically significant difference in the proportion of patients whose pain was relieved by the end of the trial (Week 8).

    14.3 Symptomatic Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

    Orally administered famotidine was compared to placebo in a U.S. trial that enrolled patients with symptoms of GERD and without endoscopic evidence of esophageal erosion or ulceration. As shown in Table 8, patients treated with famotidine 20 mg twice daily had greater improvement in symptomatic GERD than patients treated with 40 mg at bedtime or placebo.

    Table 8: Patients with Improvement of Symptomatic GERD (N=376)

    Famotidine

    20 mg twice daily (N=154)

    Famotidine

    40 mg at bedtime (N=149)

    Placebo

    at bedtime (N=73)

    Week 6

    82%a

    69%

    62%

    a p≤0.01 vs. placebo

    14.4 Erosive Esophagitis due to GERD

    Healing of endoscopically verified erosion and symptomatic improvement were studied in a U.S. and an international double-blind trial. Healing was defined as complete resolution of all erosions visible with endoscopy. The U.S. trial comparing orally administered famotidine 40 mg twice daily to placebo and orally administered famotidine 20 mg twice daily showed a significantly greater percentage of healing of erosive esophagitis for famotidine 40 mg twice daily at Weeks 6 and 12 (Table 9).

    Table 9: Patients with Endoscopic Healing of Erosive Esophagitis - U.S. Study (N=318)

    Famotidine

    40 mg twice daily (N=127)

    Famotidine

    20 mg twice daily (N=125)

    Placebo

    twice daily (N=66)

    Week 6

    48%a,b

    32%

    18%

    Week 12

    69%a,c

    54%

    29%

    a p≤0.01 vs. placebo

    b p≤0.01 vs. famotidine 20 mg twice daily

    c p≤0.05 vs. famotidine 20 mg twice daily

    As compared to placebo, patients in the U.S. trial who received famotidine had faster relief of daytime and nighttime heartburn, and a greater percentage of famotidine-treated patients experienced complete relief of nighttime heartburn. These differences were statistically significant.

    In the international trial, when orally administered famotidine 40 mg twice daily was compared to orally administered ranitidine 150 mg twice daily, a statistically significantly greater percentage of healing of erosive esophagitis was observed with famotidine 40 mg twice daily at Week 12 (Table 10). There was, however, no significant difference in symptom relief among treatment groups.

    Table 10: Patients with Endoscopic Healing of Erosive Esophagitis - International Study (N=440)

    Famotidine

    40 mg twice daily (N=175)

    Famotidine

    20 mg twice daily (N=93)

    Ranitidine

    150 mg twice daily (N=172)

    Week 6

    48%

    52%

    42%

    Week 12

    71%a

    68%

    60%

    a p≤0.05 vs ranitidine 150 mg twice daily

    14.5 Pathological Hypersecretory Conditions

    In trials of patients with pathological hypersecretory conditions such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome with or without multiple endocrine neoplasias, famotidine significantly inhibited gastric acid secretion and controlled associated symptoms. Orally administered famotidine dosages from 20 mg to 160 mg every 6 hours maintained basal acid secretion below 10 mEq/hour; initial dosages were titrated to the individual patient need and subsequent adjustments were necessary with time in some patients.

    14.6 Risk Reduction of Duodenal Ulcer Recurrence

    Two randomized, double-blind, multicenter trials in patients with endoscopically confirmed healed DUs demonstrated that patients receiving treatment with orally administered famotidine 20 mg at bedtime had lower rates of DU recurrence, as compared with placebo.

    • In the U.S. trial, DU recurrence within 12 months was 2.4 times greater in patients treated with placebo than in the patients treated with famotidine. The 89 famotidine-treated patients had a cumulative observed DU recurrence rate of 23%, compared to a 57% in the 89 patients receiving placebo (p<0.01).
    • In the international trial, the cumulative observed DU recurrence within 12 months in the 307 famotidine-treated patients was 36%, compared to 76% in the 325 patients who received placebo (p<0.01).

    Controlled trials have not extended beyond one year.

    14.7 GERD in Pediatric Patients Less than 1 Year of Age

    In a double-blind, randomized, treatment-withdrawal study, 35 pediatric patients less than 1 year of age who were diagnosed with GERD, primarily by history of vomiting (spitting up) and irritability (fussiness), were treated for up to 4 weeks with famotidine oral suspension 0.5 mg/kg or 1 mg/kg administered once daily for patients less than 3 months of age and administered twice daily for patients 3 months to less than 12 months of age. Caregivers were instructed to provide conservative treatment including thickened feedings. After 4 weeks of treatment, patients were randomly withdrawn from the treatment and followed an additional 4 weeks for vomiting (spitting up), irritability (fussiness) and global assessments of improvement. The study patients ranged in age at entry from 1.3 to 10.5 months (mean 5.6 ± 2.9 months), 57% were female, 91% were white and 6% were black. Most patients (27/35) continued into the treatment-withdrawal phase of the study. Most patients improved during the initial treatment phase of the study. Results of the treatment-withdrawal phase were difficult to interpret because of small numbers of patients.

  • 16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING

    Famotidine for Oral Suspension USP is a white to off-white powder forming a white to off-white suspension with characteristic odor on constitution, containing 40 mg of famotidine per 5 mL.

    The suspension is a cherry-banana-mint flavored.

    50 mL   NDC # 70377-113-11    Bottle containing 400 mg famotidine.

    Prior to dispensing, constitute famotidine for oral suspension [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION (2.3)]

    Storage

    Store famotidine for oral suspension dry powder and constituted suspension at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15° to 30°C (59° to 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].

    Protect from freezing. Discard unused constituted suspension after 30 days.

    Dispense in a USP tight, light-resistant container.

  • 17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION

    Central Nervous System (CNS) Adverse Reactions

    Advise elderly patients and those with moderate and severe renal impairment of the risk of CNS adverse reactions, including confusion, delirium, hallucinations, disorientation, agitation, seizures, and lethargy [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS (5.1)]. Report symptoms immediately to a healthcare provider.

    QT Prolongation

    Advise patients with moderate and severe renal impairment of the risk of QT interval prolongation [see USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS (8.6)]. Report new cardiac symptoms, such as palpitations, fainting and dizziness or lightheadedness immediately to a healthcare provider.

    Administration

    Advise patients to take and caregivers to administer:

    • Famotidine for oral suspension once daily before bedtime or twice daily in the morning and before bedtime, as recommended.

    Advise patients and caregivers:

    • Famotidine for oral suspension may be taken with or without food.
    • Famotidine for oral suspension may be given with antacids. 

    Manufactured by:

    Carnegie Pharmaceuticals LLC
    Delran, NJ 08075, USA

    Manufactured for:

    Biocon Pharma Inc.,

    Iselin, New Jersey, 08830-3009

    United States of America

    Revised: May 2023

  • PACKAGE LABEL PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL SECTION

    Packet Label:

    containerlabel

  • INGREDIENTS AND APPEARANCE
    FAMOTIDINE 
    famotidine powder, for suspension
    Product Information
    Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUGItem Code (Source)NDC: 70377-113
    Route of AdministrationORAL
    Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
    Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
    FAMOTIDINE (UNII: 5QZO15J2Z8) (FAMOTIDINE - UNII:5QZO15J2Z8) FAMOTIDINE40 mg  in 5 mL
    Inactive Ingredients
    Ingredient NameStrength
    ANHYDROUS CITRIC ACID (UNII: XF417D3PSL)  
    POWDERED CELLULOSE (UNII: SMD1X3XO9M)  
    SUCROSE (UNII: C151H8M554)  
    XANTHAN GUM (UNII: TTV12P4NEE)  
    METHYLPARABEN SODIUM (UNII: CR6K9C2NHK)  
    PROPYLPARABEN SODIUM (UNII: 625NNB0G9N)  
    SODIUM BENZOATE (UNII: OJ245FE5EU)  
    Product Characteristics
    ColorWHITE ((White to off White) Score    
    ShapeSize
    FlavorCHERRY (cherry-banana-mint flavored) Imprint Code
    Contains    
    Packaging
    #Item CodePackage DescriptionMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
    1NDC: 70377-113-1150 mL in 1 BOTTLE; Type 0: Not a Combination Product09/01/2023
    Marketing Information
    Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
    ANDAANDA21713709/01/2023
    Labeler - Biocon Pharma Inc. (080000063)
    Registrant - Carnegie Pharmaceuticals LLC (079839141)
    Establishment
    NameAddressID/FEIBusiness Operations
    Carnegie Pharmaceuticals LLC079839141manufacture(70377-113) , analysis(70377-113) , label(70377-113) , pack(70377-113)
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