What is the most important information I should know about cimetidine?
Use this medication exactly as directed on the label, or as your doctor has prescribed it for
you. Do not use more of the medication than recommended. Do not use the medication for
longer than recommended.
Avoid taking antacids unless your doctor recommends them for
heartburn pain.
Follow your doctor's advice about the type of
antacid to use and when to use it. You may not be
able to take the antacid at the same time you take your dose of cimetidine.
Taking cimetidine may make you more susceptible to virus that can cause pneumonia.
This has occurred most often in elderly people and in those with diabetes, a weak immune
system, or chronic lung disease. Before using cimetidine, tell your doctor if you have any of
these conditions.
There may be other drugs that can affect cimetidine. Tell your doctor about all the
prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal
products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without
telling your doctor.
What is cimetidine?
Cimetidine is in a group of drugs called histamine receptor antagonists. Cimetidine works
by decreasing the amount of acid your stomach produces.
Cimetidine is used to treat and prevent certain types of ulcer, and to treat conditions that
cause the stomach to produce too much acid. Cimetidine is also used to treat gastroesophageal
reflux disease (GERD), when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus and causes heartburn.
Cimetidine may also be used for conditions other than those listed in this medication
guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking cimetidine?
Taking cimetidine may make you more susceptible to virus that causes pneumonia. You
may be more likely to develop pneumonia if you have certain health problems.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you have:
If you have any of the conditions listed above, you may not be able to
use cimetidine or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.
Cimetidine is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is not expected to
be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are
pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
Cimetidine passes into breast milk, and may be harmful to a nursing baby. Do not
take cimetidine without telling your doctor if you are
breast-feeding a baby.
Do not give this medicine to a child younger than 16 years old unless your doctor has
told you to.
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