Does Pepcid Complete contain dairy or gluten?

No, the ingredients list does not include lactose (dairy) or wheat/gluten derivatives. It is generally considered gluten-free and dairy-free.

Is Pepcid Complete good for weight loss?

No. While it contains calcium, it is not a weight loss aid. It has no fat-burning properties and is strictly for treating heartburn and indigestion.

Where can I buy Pepcid Complete?

Pepcid Complete is widely available at major retailers like Walmart, CVS, Walgreens, and online via Amazon.

Is Pepcid Complete safe for kids?

Pepcid Complete is generally formulated for adults. Dosage for children should strictly follow pediatrician recommendations, as the dosage of Famotidine and antacids varies by age and weight.

Is Pepcid Complete Vegan?

Yes, Pepcid Complete is generally considered vegan-friendly. Our analysis of the active and inactive ingredients reveals no direct animal-derived components. However, understanding the nuances of pharmaceutical manufacturing is key for strict vegans.

The Ingredient Breakdown

To determine if Pepcid Complete fits a vegan lifestyle, we must look at both the active ingredients and the excipients (inactive ingredients) that make up the tablet. The primary active ingredients are Famotidine (20mg), Calcium Carbonate (800mg), and Magnesium Hydroxide (165mg). Famotidine is a synthetic compound synthesized in a lab, not derived from animals. Calcium Carbonate and Magnesium Hydroxide are mineral-based.

The potential red flags for vegans often hide in the inactive ingredients used for binding, coloring, and flavoring. Based on the label data, the inactive ingredients include cellulose acetate, corn starch, crospovidone, FD&C Red No. 40 Aluminum Lake, flavors, gum arabic, magnesium stearate, maltodextrin, mineral oil, and modified starch.

Here is the breakdown of specific concerns: Magnesium Stearate is a common flow agent. While it can technically be derived from animal tallow, the pharmaceutical industry overwhelmingly uses plant-based (palm, coconut) or synthetic sources today. FD&C Red No. 40 is synthetic and vegan. Gum Arabic is a plant resin. Flavors are vague, but in the context of OTC drugs like Pepcid, they are almost exclusively synthetic or plant-derived to ensure stability and allergen safety. There are no ingredients like gelatin, lactose, or shellac listed, which are common animal-derived excipients.

Nutritional Value

While Pepcid Complete is technically a medication, it functions as an antacid and contains significant amounts of minerals. Each tablet contains Calcium 320mg and Magnesium 70mg. It is important to remember that this is not a food product; it is not intended to provide caloric energy. Therefore, it contains negligible calories, fat, or sugar in the context of a daily diet.

However, the Calcium Carbonate content is high. For individuals monitoring their mineral intake or those with kidney issues, this dosage is significant. From a dietary perspective, the tablet does not contribute to weight gain, as it lacks carbohydrates and fats. The small amount of maltodextrin and corn starch acts as a binder, not a nutritional source.