This first section of our medication database entry focuses on basic drug characteristics, uses and benefits, while part two covers side effects, interactions and additional information.
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Tagamet Consumer Information
TAGAMET
Generic Name: cimetidine (sye MEH ti deen)
Brand Names: Tagamet, Tagamet HB
What is the most important information I should know about cimetidine?
- Do not stop taking cimetidine without first talking to your doctor. It may take up to 8 weeks for an ulcer to heal.
- Do not take antacids within 1 hour of taking cimetidine. Antacids may decrease the effectiveness of cimetidine.
What is cimetidine?
- Cimetidine is in a class of drugs called histamine receptor antagonists. Cimetidine works by decreasing the amount of acid the stomach produces.
- Cimetidine is used to treat and prevent ulcers in the stomach and intestines. Cimetidine is also used to treat conditions in which the stomach produces too much acid and conditions in which acid comes up into the esophagus and causes heartburn, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
- Cimetidine may also be used for conditions other than those listed in this medication guide.
Who should not take cimetidine?
- Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have
- kidney disease; or
- liver disease;
- You may not be able to take cimetidine, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
- Cimetidine is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is unlikely to harm an unborn baby. Do not take cimetidine without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.
- Cimetidine passes into breast milk, but it is believed to have little effect on a nursing infant. Do not take cimetidine without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take cimetidine?
- Take cimetidine exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
- Take each dose with a full glass of water.
- To ensure that you get the correct dose, measure the liquid forms of cimetidine with dose-measuring spoon or cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.
- Do not stop taking cimetidine without first talking to your doctor. It may take up to 8 weeks for an ulcer to heal.
- Store cimetidine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
- Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
What happens if I overdose?
- Seek emergency medical attention.
- Symptoms of a cimetidine overdose include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, increased saliva production, difficulty breathing, and a fast heartbeat.
What should I avoid while taking cimetidine?
- There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activities while taking cimetidine, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Please see the end of this document for relevant limitations, full details of our medication information supplier, and revision date or version number.