Compare Pepcid vs. Rolaids
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.
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
Relieves heartburn and acid tummy.
Rolaids (Calcium Carbonate / Magnesium Hydroxide) gives quick relief for heartburn, but don't expect it to last all day.
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3.7/ 5 average rating with 1089 reviewsforRolaids
Upsides
- 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.
- Works really fast.
- Available over the counter without a prescription.
- Cheap.
Downsides
- 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.
- Doesn't last very long.
- Other antacids like Zantac (H2 blockers) and omeprazole (proton pump inhibitors) can work better and last longer.
- Some chalky aftertaste.
Used for
Dosage forms
- Pill
- Chewable tablet
- Liquid
- Chewable tablet
- Liquid
Price
Lowest price
$11.00
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Reviews
853 reviews so far
75%
saidit'sworth it
41%
saiditworked well
8%
saidit'sa big hassle
Have you used Pepcid (Famotidine)?
Leave a review1089 reviews so far
75%
saidit'sworth it
37%
saiditworked well
7%
saidit'sa big hassle
Have you used Rolaids (Calcium Carbonate / Magnesium Hydroxide)?
Leave a reviewSide effects
The Rolaids (Calcium Carbonate / Magnesium Hydroxide) FDA package insert doesn’t have numbers about how common side effects are.
Risks and risk factors
- Hiding possible cancer
- Increased side effects
- Current kidney disease
- Allergic reaction
- Taking the wrong medication
- High blood calcium
- Current kidney disease
- Kidney dialysis
- Hyperparathyroid disease
- Taking high doses of Vitamin D
- Kidney stones
- Previous kidney stones