Compare Dexilant vs. Pepcid
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.
Treats heartburn and ulcers.
Dexilant (Dexlansoprazole) is an effective medicine to treat heartburn and ulcers, but can be expensive.
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4.7/ 5 average rating with 73 reviewsforDexilant
Relieves heartburn.
Pepcid (Famotidine) works well for heartburn but may not last as long or start working as quickly as other antacids.
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3.7/ 5 average rating with 853 reviewsforPepcid
Upsides
- Relieves heartburn symptoms and heals ulcers better than other stomach medicines, such as Pepcid, Tagamet, and Zantac.
- Lasts longer than other similar stomach medicines. Most people take it once a day.
- Your body won't develop a tolerance to Dexilant (Dexlansoprazole), so it'll work the same way as long as you need to keep taking it.
- Once heartburn symptoms are treated, a low dose of Dexilant (Dexlansoprazole) can be taken daily.
- Most people can take Famotidine without any noticeable day-to-day side effects.
- Famotidine lasts longer than many other antacids like Maalox and Tums, and you only need to take it once or twice a day.
- You can take it in combination with a quick-acting antacid (like Maalox or Tums) if you need relief right away.
- Available as both a generic and over-the-counter option, so it's pretty affordable.
- Few drug interactions.
Downsides
- Taking Dexilant (Dexlansoprazole) in high doses or for longer than 1 year can increase the risk for bone fractures, especially if you already have osteoporosis (weak bones).
- Many drugs can interact with Dexilant (Dexlansoprazole), so talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting any new medicines.
- There's no generic version available, so it can be expensive.
- Other antacids like Maalox, Tums, or Rolaids often start to work more quickly than Famotidine.
- Medication like omeprazole (proton pump inhibitors) works better at healing and preventing stomach ulcers than medication like Famotidine (H2 blockers).
- Can cause more serious side effects for people with kidney disease. Ask your doctor to give you a lower dose or choose a different option.
Used for
Dosage forms
- Extended release
- Pill
- Chewable tablet
- Liquid
Price
Lowest price
$280.87
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$4.00
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Reviews
73 reviews so far
93%
saidit'sworth it
92%
saiditworked well
14%
saidit'sa big hassle
Have you used Dexilant (Dexlansoprazole)?
Leave a review853 reviews so far
75%
saidit'sworth it
41%
saiditworked well
8%
saidit'sa big hassle
Have you used Pepcid (Famotidine)?
Leave a reviewSide effects
6possible side effects
- Diarrhea5%
- Abdominal Pain4%
- Nausea3%
- Upper Respiratory Tract Infection2%
- Vomiting2%
- Flatulence2%
Risks and risk factors
- Hiding possible cancer
- Severe stomach inflammation (atrophic gastritis)
- Helicobacter pylori infection
- Autoimmune disease
- Severe diarrhea
- Being hospitalized
- Antibiotic use
- Broken bones
- Osteoporosis
- Age 50 or older
- Using high medication doses
- Long-term therapy (1 year or more)
- Smoking
- Use of other medications that weaken bones
- Low vitamin or mineral levels
- Hiding possible cancer
- Increased side effects
- Current kidney disease
- Allergic reaction