| Brand Name | Tagamet |
| Generic Name | Cimetidine |
| Drug Class | Histamine H? receptor antagonist (H? blocker) |
| Availability | Over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription |
| Manufacturer | Smith, Kline & French (now part of GlaxoSmithKline) |
| Indications | Treatment of active duodenal and benign gastric ulcers Maintenance therapy for duodenal ulcer patients after healing of active ulcers Treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Treatment of pathological hypersecretory conditions (e.g., Zollinger-Ellison syndrome) Relief of heartburn, acid indigestion, and sour stomach |
| Type | Tablet |
| Doses | 300 mg |
| Route | Oral |
| Side Effects | Headache Dizziness Diarrhea Drowsiness Gynecomastia (enlarged breasts in men) with long-term use Confusion (especially in the elderly or severely ill) |
| Interactions | May interact with drugs metabolized by the liver's cytochrome P450 system, such as warfarin, phenytoin, and theophylline, potentially increasing their effects May reduce the absorption of drugs that require an acidic environment, such as ketoconazole |
| Overdose | Restlessness Confusion Agitation Hallucinations Seizures |
| Missed Dose | Take as soon as remembered unless it's close to the next dose |
| Contraindications | Known hypersensitivity to cimetidine or any component of the formulation |
| Alternatives | Ranitidine (Zantac) Famotidine (Pepcid) Nizatidine (Axid) Proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole, lansoprazole) |
| Co-Pay Assistance Program | Available |
| Patient Assistance Program | Available |
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Cimetidine is used to treat conditions involving excess stomach acid, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), ulcers, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.
Cimetidine works by blocking histamine H2 receptors in the stomach, reducing acid production and helping to prevent acid reflux and heal ulcers.
Common side effects include headache, dizziness, constipation, and diarrhea. Rarely, it can cause confusion or gynecomastia (breast enlargement in men).
Cimetidine is usually taken orally in tablet or liquid form. The dosage and frequency depend on the condition being treated, so follow your doctor�s recommendations.
Yes, Cimetidine is effective for treating heartburn and acid reflux by reducing the amount of acid produced in the stomach.
Cimetidine is classified as a pregnancy category B drug, meaning it is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but consult your healthcare provider before use.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it�s almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at once.
Yes, Cimetidine can interact with medications such as blood thinners, antifungal drugs, and certain antacids. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications you're taking.
Cimetidine usually works within 1 to 2 hours to relieve heartburn and acid reflux symptoms, but it may take several days of use to fully heal ulcers or treat chronic GERD.
Yes, Cimetidine is commonly used to treat peptic ulcers by reducing stomach acid, allowing the ulcer to heal more effectively.
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