Famotidine is classified as which type of drug?

Famotidine is classified as an antiulcer agent, which is a type of medication that reduces stomach acid production. It belongs to a class of drugs known as H2-receptor antagonists (or H2 blockers). These medications work by blocking histamine at the H2 receptors in the stomach lining, leading to decreased secretion of gastric acid. This mechanism is particularly beneficial for treating conditions associated with excessive stomach acid, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcers, and conditions that cause hypersecretion of gastric acid.

In contrast to other classifications, antihypertensives are used to manage high blood pressure, antidiabetic agents help regulate blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes, and antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections. Famotidine does not serve any of these functions, which highlights its specific therapeutic role in managing conditions related to acid secretion in the stomach.