MedDataToolCimetidine is a medication used to treat conditions like active duodenal ulcers, benign gastric ulcers, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It works by blocking a substance in the body that stimulates the stomach to produce acid, which helps reduce symptoms and promote healing. You typically take it as a tablet, with a common starting dose of 800 mg at bedtime for ulcers, and the maximum dose can go up to 1,600 mg at bedtime if needed. It's important to know that cimetidine should not be taken with antacids at the same time, as they can interfere with how well the medication works. Additionally, if you have a known allergy to cimetidine, you should avoid using it.
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Uses
- Short-term treatment of active duodenal ulcer.
- Maintenance therapy for duodenal ulcer.
- Short-term treatment of active benign gastric ulcer.
- Erosive gastroesophageal reflux (GERD).
- Treatment of pathological hypersecretory conditions.
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Dosage
- 400 mg at bedtime for active duodenal ulcer. 800 mg at bedtime or 300 mg 4 times daily for active benign gastric ulcer. 1,600 mg daily in divided doses for GERD for 12 weeks. 400 mg at bedtime for maintenance therapy after healing.
- Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.
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Side effects
Common
Diarrhea (usually mild)Dizziness and somnolence (usually mild)Gynecomastia (in long-term use)Reversible impotence (in long-term use)
Serious
Headaches (mild to severe)Decreased white blood cell counts (rare)Allergic reactions (rare)
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Warnings
⚠ Important warnings
- Not recommended to take with antacids.
- Use caution in patients with severely impaired renal function.
- May cause reversible confusional states in severely ill patients.
- Monitor for potential liver injury.
- Risk of pneumonia in current users.
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Answers pulled from the FDA label only.
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Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).