| Brand Name | Tagamet |
| Generic Name | Cimetidine |
| Drug Class | Histamine H? receptor antagonist (H? blocker) |
| Availability | Over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription |
| Manufacturer | Smith, Kline & French (now part of GlaxoSmithKline) |
| Indications | Treatment of active duodenal and benign gastric ulcers Maintenance therapy for duodenal ulcer patients after healing of active ulcers Treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Treatment of pathological hypersecretory conditions (e.g., Zollinger-Ellison syndrome) Relief of heartburn, acid indigestion, and sour stomach |
| Type | Tablet |
| Doses | 300 mg |
| Route | Oral |
| Side Effects | Headache Dizziness Diarrhea Drowsiness Gynecomastia (enlarged breasts in men) with long-term use Confusion (especially in the elderly or severely ill) |
| Interactions | May interact with drugs metabolized by the liver's cytochrome P450 system, such as warfarin, phenytoin, and theophylline, potentially increasing their effects May reduce the absorption of drugs that require an acidic environment, such as ketoconazole |
| Overdose | Restlessness Confusion Agitation Hallucinations Seizures |
| Missed Dose | Take as soon as remembered unless it's close to the next dose |
| Contraindications | Known hypersensitivity to cimetidine or any component of the formulation |
| Alternatives | Ranitidine (Zantac) Famotidine (Pepcid) Nizatidine (Axid) Proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole, lansoprazole) |
| Co-Pay Assistance Program | Available |
| Patient Assistance Program | Available |
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
A: Yes, but take them at least 1 hour apart to avoid interference with absorption.
A: Consult your healthcare provider before using Tagamet during pregnancy.
