Compare Dexilant vs. Pepcid

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.

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Dexilant (dexlansoprazole)

Prescription only

Pepcid (Famotidine)

Prescription or OTC
Treats heartburn.

Dexilant (dexlansoprazole) is an effective medicine to treat heartburn, but can be expensive since it is only available as a brand.

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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 better than other stomach medicines (like Pepcid, Tagamet, and Zantac).
  • Lasts longer than other alternative stomach medicines.
  • Convenient once daily dosing.
  • Treats GERD in children 12 to 17 years of age.
  • Can be swallowed whole, or contents of the pill can be emptied into applesauce for easy swallowing.
  • 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
  • Similar to other proton pump inhibitors, Dexilant (dexlansoprazole) can weaken bones when taken for a long period of time.
  • Can take a few days before you start to feel the full effects.
  • Dexilant (dexlansoprazole) can affect how other medicines, vitamins, and minerals get absorbed in your body.
  • 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.
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Used for
Dosage forms
  • Delayed-release pill
  • Dissolving tablet
  • Pill
  • Chewable tablet
  • Liquid
Price
Lowest price
$212.28
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Lowest price
$35.00
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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 review
853 reviews so far
75%
saidit'sworth it
41%
saiditworked well
8%
saidit'sa big hassle

Have you used Pepcid (Famotidine)?

Leave a review
Side effects
6possible side effects
  • Diarrhea
    5%
  • Abdominal pain
    4%
  • Nausea
    3%
  • Upper airway infection
    3%
  • Gas
    3%
  • Vomiting
    2%
See more detailed side effects
2possible side effects
  • Headache
    5%
  • Diarrhea
    2%
See more detailed side effects
Risks and risk factors
  • Possible stomach cancer
  • Kidney inflammation
  • Severe diarrhea
    • Being hospitalized
    • Antibiotic use
  • Bone fractures
    • High dose Dexilant (dexlansoprazole)
    • Long-term treatment with Dexilant (dexlansoprazole) (more than 1 year)
    • Low bone mineral density
    • Aged 50 years or older
    • Alcohol
    • Smoking
    • Taking steroids or seizure medicines
  • Low magnesium and vitamin B12 levels
    • Taking digoxin or diuretics
  • Lupus
See more detailed risks and warnings
  • Hiding possible cancer
  • Increased side effects
    • Current kidney disease
  • Allergic reaction
See more detailed risks and warnings
Learn more about Dexilant (dexlansoprazole)
Learn more about Pepcid (Famotidine)