Active Ingredients
Pepcid contains famotidine, an H2 blocker that reduces stomach acid production. Zantac 360 contains famotidine too—it's the same ingredient, just rebranded after the original Zantac (ranitidine) was pulled from the market in 2020 due to NDMA contamination risks.[1]
Why the Rebrand for Zantac?
Zantac's original formula used ranitidine, linked to cancer-causing impurities, leading to a full recall by the FDA. Sanofi relaunched Zantac 360 in 2022 with famotidine (8 mg or 10 mg doses per tablet), matching Pepcid's acid-suppressing mechanism but under the Zantac name to recapture market share.[1][2]
Dosage and Forms
Both offer similar over-the-counter options:
- Pepcid: 10 mg or 20 mg tablets; maximum daily dose around 40 mg for heartburn.
- Zantac 360: 10 mg tablets (originally marketed as lower-dose for "360-degree protection" against heartburn triggers); also available in melts or gels.
Pepcid edges out with higher-strength AC versions (20 mg) for faster relief.[2]
Effectiveness and Speed
No major difference—both start working in 1-3 hours, lasting up to 12 hours. Clinical studies show famotidine equally effective for occasional heartburn, GERD symptoms, or acid indigestion across brands.[3]
Pricing and Availability
Zantac 360 tablets cost about $10-15 for 50-80 count, similar to generic Pepcid. Name-brand Pepcid runs $15-20 for comparable packs. Both are widely available at pharmacies without prescription; generics of famotidine are cheapest at $5-10.[2]
Who Makes Them?
- Pepcid: Johnson & Johnson (via brands like Pepcid AC).
- Zantac 360: Sanofi.
Patents on famotidine expired decades ago, so generics dominate—no exclusivity issues.[1]
When to Choose One Over the Other?
Pick based on familiarity or marketing—Zantac 360 targets milder, preventive use with its "360" branding. If you need stronger or faster relief, Pepcid's 20 mg option or complete formulations (with antacids) might suit better. Consult a doctor for chronic use, as long-term H2 blockers carry risks like B12 deficiency.[3]
[1]: FDA Recall on Ranitidine
[2]: Drugs.com Comparison
[3]: Mayo Clinic on H2 Blockers