Tagamet|Cimetidine

Tagamet - Cimetidine

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Bharat Pothuri, MD, FACG

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cimetidine used for?

Cimetidine finds application in management of gastric acid overproduction including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gastrointestinal tumors and Zollinger Ellison syndrome.

How does Cimetidine work?

Cimetidine acts by inhibition of histamine receptors (H2) in the stomach, suppressing the production of acid and therefore preventing gastroesophageal reflux and curing ulcers.

What are the side effects of Cimetidine taken most of the time?

The frequent side effects consist of headache, dizziness, constipation, and diarrhea. It may on infrequent occasions lead to confusion or gynecomastia (breast enlargement in men).

Instructions: What is the dosage of Cimetidine administration?

Cimetidine is normally administered orally in form of a tablet or liquid. Dosage and frequency varies according to the condition being treated and therefore adhere to the prescriptions of the doctor.

Is Cimetidine treatment applicable in heartburn?

Yes, Cimetidine comes in handy when treating heartburn and acid reflux, because it decreases the volume of acid in the stomach.

Is Cimetidine worthwhile when pregnant?

Cimetidine is the type of drug in term of pregnancy category B, i.e. generally safe in pregnancy, though you still need to consult with your healthcare professional before using.

What would you do in case of missing a dose of Cimetidine?

In case you miss out on taking a dose, said dose should be taken immediately you remember unless you are about to take your next dose otherwise. Do not take two doses at once.

Would Cimetidine have any interactions with other drugs?

Yes, Cimetidine may produce an interaction effect with certain drugs including those that are used to treat blood clots, antifungal medications, and select antacids. Always provide your medical care provider with information on the other medications you are taking.

What is the time taken by Cimetidine to act?

Typically, Cimetidine is effective in 1-2 hours and overcomes the symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux, although it may need several days of use before healing ulcers or curing chronic GERD.

Is Cimetidine applicable in treating ulcers?

Yes, Cimetidine is usually used in the treatment of peptic ulcers so as to lower the amount of stomach acid in order to allow the healing ulcer to be more efficient.

Tagamet