Cimetidine
Information about Cimetidine
Cimetidine uses
Cimetidine is used in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (acid reflux) and peptic ulcer disease.
How cimetidine works
Cimetidine is a histamine H2 receptor antagonist. It works by reducing the amount of acid produced in the stomach which helps relieve of acid-related indigestion and heartburn.
Common side effects of cimetidine
Headache, Diarrhea, Muscle pain, Skin rash, Tiredness
Available Medicine for Cimetidine
Expert advice for Cimetidine
- Take Cimetidine before going to bed if you are taking this medicine once a day. It is very effective in controlling stomach acid that is released when you are asleep.
- If you are also taking other medications to treat acidity (e.g., antacid), take them 2 hours before or after taking Cimetidine.
- Avoid taking soft drinks, citrus fruits like orange and lemon, which can irritate the stomach and increase acid secretion.
- Inform your doctor if you do not feel better after taking Cimetidine for 2 weeks as you may be suffering from some other problems.
- Inform your doctor if you have ever been diagnosed with kidney disease as dose of your medicine may need to be adjusted.
- Inform your doctor about any other medications or supplements that you are taking because Cimetidine can interfere with the working of other medications.
- Do not stop taking the medication without talking to your doctor.
Frequently asked questions for Cimetidine
Cimetidine
Q. How can Cimetidine cause gynecomastia?
Cimetidine causes gynecomastia (enlarged breasts of males) by decreasing the male hormone (testosterone) levels and blocking the sensitivity of the target areas on which testosterone acts. However, the breast enlargement is not bothersome. Please consult your doctor if this worries you.
Q. Can I take Cimetidine with loperamide?
Cimetidine can decrease the metabolism of Loperamide, increase its blood levels. This can in turn increase the effects and side effects of Loperamide. So, consult your doctor prior to taking both the medicines together as your dose of Loperamide may need to be decreased.
Q. Is there any vitamin and mineral loss when Cimetidine is taken?
Cimetidine is not known to cause vitamin and mineral loss or deficiency. However, Cimetidine belongs to the class of H2 receptor blocker which can decrease vitamin B12 absorption and cause its deficiency as reported in some studies especially when used for more than two years.