Famotidine in Pregnancy: Safety, Alternatives, and What You Need to Know

When you're pregnant and heartburn keeps you up at night, you don't want to guess whether that pill on the shelf is safe. Famotidine, a type of H2 blocker used to reduce stomach acid. Also known as Pepcid, it's one of the most commonly asked-about medications for acid reflux during pregnancy. Unlike some other heartburn drugs, famotidine has been studied in pregnant women for decades, and the data doesn't show a clear link to birth defects or complications. The FDA classifies it as Category B, meaning animal studies found no risk and human studies haven’t shown harm—but that doesn’t mean it’s risk-free for everyone.

What you really need to know is how famotidine compares to other options. Antacids, like Tums or Rolaids, work fast but don’t last long, while proton pump inhibitors, like omeprazole, are often used when H2 blockers don’t cut it. Many OB-GYNs start with lifestyle changes—eating smaller meals, avoiding spicy food, staying upright after eating—before jumping to meds. But if those don’t help, famotidine is often the next step because it’s been used safely by thousands of pregnant women. It doesn’t cross the placenta in large amounts, and there’s no evidence it affects fetal development, milk production, or newborn health.

Still, not all heartburn is the same. If you’re taking famotidine every day for weeks, you might be masking something bigger—like GERD or a hiatal hernia. And if you’ve tried everything and still feel burning, it’s worth checking in with your provider. Some women find relief with ginger tea, acupuncture, or even sleeping propped up. Others need a stronger solution. The key is knowing your options, understanding what’s backed by real data, and avoiding myths like "all meds are dangerous" or "natural means safe." You’re not being reckless for wanting relief—you’re being smart.

Below, you’ll find real-world advice from women who’ve navigated this, plus clear comparisons of what works, what doesn’t, and what your doctor might not tell you about acid reflux meds during pregnancy. No fluff. Just what you need to feel confident about your choices.