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CIMETIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE vs PEPCID AC

Independent side-by-side comparison.

Rated against independent regulatory sources·Last updated August 12, 2026·How we rate

Rating

New
70/100

Pharmacy pays

~$9.92 /30
~$1.54 /30

Type

RX
OTC

Active ingredient

CIMETIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE
FAMOTIDINE

Dosage forms

Solution
Tablet

Drug class

Histamine-2 Receptor Antagonist
Histamine-2 Receptor Antagonist

Boxed warning

None
None

Half-life

2.5 to 3.5 hours

Treats

Duodenal Ulcer, Dyspepsia, Peptic Esophagitis
Duodenal Ulcer, Dyspepsia, Peptic Esophagitis

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Where to buy

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Frequently asked questions

Which is cheaper, Cimetidine Hydrochloride or Pepcid Ac?

Pepcid Ac costs pharmacies less to acquire — about $1.54 vs $9.92 for a 30-count supply, per the CMS NADAC survey. That gap is in the pharmacy's cost of goods, not necessarily in what you pay: your price is set afterwards by your insurer and the pharmacy.

What is the difference between Cimetidine Hydrochloride and Pepcid Ac?

Cimetidine Hydrochloride contains Cimetidine Hydrochloride, while Pepcid Ac contains Famotidine — they have different active ingredients.

Ratings are based on FDA regulatory (recall-safety) data. This comparison is for general reference only — not medical advice. Always consult a licensed professional before choosing or switching a medication.