Written by Mae Charisse Antalan, MD · General Practitioner
Cimetidine belongs to a group of medications called histamine type-2-receptor antagonists that block the release of histamine which triggers the secretion of stomach acid.
By blocking H-2 receptors, it prevents the secretion of gastric acid into the stomach. H-2 blockers do not bind to H-1 receptors, so they do not produce the same effects as antihistamines.
Cimetidine is used to treat the following:
Cimetidine is available as an oral tablet and intravenous (IV) solution. The oral tablet should be taken by mouth and swallowed whole without chewing or crushing it. It should be taken before meals.
The IV solution should be administered by a licensed health professional.
This drug should be stored at room temperature (<30°C) and be protected from light and moisture. Do not freeze this product. Always check the label before using this product. For safety, keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Do not use if the printed expiration date has passed, the product seal has been broken, or the product has changed in color, odor, or consistency.
Do not dispose of this product by pouring it down the drain, toilet, or into the environment. Ask your pharmacist regarding the proper way and location of disposal.
Before using this medication, inform your doctor if:
Cimetidine is a pregnancy category B drug. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies using cimetidine in pregnant women, however, animal studies have not shown any risk to the fetus. This drug should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus, as determined by your doctor.
This drug may be excreted in breast milk. This drug should be used while breastfeeding only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the child, as determined by your doctor.
All drugs have the potential to elicit side effects even with normal use. Many side effects are dose-related and will resolve when it is adjusted or at the end of therapy.
Potential side effects while using this drug include:
Rare adverse reactions:
Potentially fatal reactions:
You may experience some, none, or other side effects not mentioned above. If you experience serious adverse reactions, you must stop taking the drug immediately. If you have any concerns about a side effect or it becomes bothersome, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
This drug may interact with other medications. To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist.
Known drugs and their interactions with medication include:
If you experience an adverse drug interaction, stop taking this drug and continue taking your other medication. Inform your doctor immediately to reevaluate your treatment plan. Your dose may need to be adjusted, substituted with another drug, or discontinue using the drug.
Food may reduce the rate and amount of absorption of cimetidine. Do not take cimetidine with alcohol as it may cause gastric irritation.
Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns regarding food-drug interactions.
This drug should be taken with caution if you have any of the following conditions or risk factors:
Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns regarding specific health conditions.
The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. You should ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist before using cimetidine.
For prophylaxis of gastrointestinal hemorrhage from stress ulcers
For treating benign gastric and duodenal ulceration
For treating pancreatic insufficiency
For treating non-ulcer dyspepsia
For treating Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
For treating GERD
As prophylaxis of acid aspiration during general anesthesia
For treating short bowel syndrome
This drug is not recommended for use in children and the recommended dose has not been established. Consult with a doctor or pharmacist for alternatives and more information.
This drug is available in the following brands, dosage forms, and strengths:
In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to your nearest emergency room.
If you miss a dose of this drug, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.
Disclaimer
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
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