Gen-Cimetidine

Brand Name:Apo-Cimetidine, Novo-Cimetine, Nu-Cimet

Prescription needed: Yes, In Some Cases

What is this drug used for?

Cimetidine is most commonly used to treat mild symptoms of heartburn or indigestion. It can also be used to help cure ulcers in the stomach or intestines and is sometimes used to relieve stomach side effects of other medications (e.g. prednisone). When used to treat ulcers, it is often used with other medications called antibiotics. Although it can be used for people who have a condition called, Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome, there are other, stronger medications that are used instead.

Is there any reason not to take this drug?

You should not take this drug if you are allergic to it or similar drugs like nizatidine, ranitidine, famotidine. Before taking this medication, tell your doctor specifically if you have or have ever had:
  • problems with your liver or kidney
  • esophagitis (other medications may be necessary)
  • weakened immune system
  • problems with confusion or hallucinations

What about possible side effects?

This medication is usually well tolerated but there are still some possible side effects. The following side effects are possible but not common:
  • diarrhea
  • headache
  • confusion (usually at high doses and with other risk factors)
  • breast pain or swollen breasts (gynecomastia) in men – tell your doctor if this develops
  • rash
  • rare cases of hepatitis (inflammation of the liver) and jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes) have been reported – call your doctor immediately
  • rare cases of a weakened immune system or anemia have been reported. Call your doctor immediately if you notice any unexplained fever or unexplained signs of infection (sore throat, chills, fatigue), unusual bruising.

This is not a complete list of side effects. If you are concerned about these or other unusual symptoms while taking this medication, ask your doctor and/or pharmacist for more information and advice.

What if I am taking other drugs?

Always provide your doctor with a list of all other drugs you are taking (including over-the-counter medications and herbal/natural products) as they may interact with and/or may change the safety or effectiveness of either drug. Tell your doctor specifically if you are taking any of these drugs as he/she may need to make changes or monitor you more closely:
  • Antacids (you need to separate this from cimetidine by at least 30 - 60 minutes)
  • Warfarin (this may increase your chances of bleeding; your doctor will likely order lab tests [INR])
  • Amiodarone, amitriptyline, carbamazepine, cyclosporine, desipramine, nortriptyline, imipramine, theophylline, diltiazem, nifedipine, labetolol, metoprolol, propanolol, glyburide, gliclizide, paroxetine, phenytoin, diazepam, sildenafil (can increase the amount of these medications in your blood and increase your chances for side effects)
  • Ketoconazole (may decrease how well ketoconazole can work)

Other information:

Lab Tests: Some tests can be affected by cimetidine. Tell healthcare professionals that you are taking this medication prior to any allergy testing, tests to determine how much acid your stomach is producing or Helicobacter pylori testing.

Children: Reduced dose necessary.

Seniors: Can be used. More sensitive to the medication and more likely to see side effects (e.g. confusion). Other similar drugs with a lower chance for side effects are available (ranitidine, famotidine, nizatidine).

Pregnancy: Safety not established. Talk to your doctor.

Women who are nursing: Drug passes into breast milk but, at normal doses, adverse effects on baby are unlikely. Talk to your doctor.

People who drive or operate machinery: Should not do so until they know the impact this drug has on them personally.

Overdose: If you experience any unusual reactions or if you seriously exceed the recommended dosage, call your doctor or 911.

Stopping the drug: If this drug has been prescribed by your doctor, do not stop taking this medication without discussing it with your doctor. Symptoms may recur.

If you miss a dose: Skip the missed dose and return to your regular dosing schedule. If you are unsure of what to do, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

Storage conditions: Closed container; cool, dry location away from excess moisture (not in the bathroom); direct light, always out of reach of children.

Alcohol: Should limit the amount of alcohol consumed. Cimetidine may make you more sensitive to the effects of alcohol.

Dietary Precautions: None