Cimetidine is a medication used to prevent ulcers in the stomach and small intestines, treating gastroesophageal reflux disease, prevents upper GI bleeding and prevents acid reflux. There are also unlabeled uses that include: the prevention of aspiration of pneumonia and stress ulcers, and herpes virus infection and can be used prior to anesthesia to prevent aspiration pneumonitis.

Cimetidine works by blocking histamine, which is responsible for releasing acid in the stomach. Tagamet is the brand name for this drug and it can be dispensed in tablet or liquid form. Cimetidine is taken orally without or without food. It is not recommended to ingest an antacid one hour before or after taking this medication. Cephalosporin, itraconazole and ketoconazole should be taken two hours prior to taking Cimetidine. If a dose is missed, take a dose as soon as remembered, but do not take more medication to make for missed doses and do not take more than one dose at a time.

Cimetidine has been classified, by the FDA, as pregnancy category B and it has been proven that this medication can be excreted in breast milk; so it is imperative the prescribing physician be notified if pregnancy has occurred or is expected. The physician should also be notified if the patient is allegeric to any ingredients of Cimetidine. Extreme caution should be used when prescribing to the elderly, they may have reduced renal function, and to children under 16, the medication has not been established for safety and efficacy.

There are several drug and dietary interactions that can occur while taking this medication. A patient cannot take Cimetidine if they are taking medicine for cancer, asthma, high blood pressure, erectile dysfunction or taking cisapride, dofetilide or nitrosoureas. Any antacids, anticholinergics, or metoclopramide may inhibit the body from completely adsorbing the cimetidine. Cimetidine may reduce the effectiveness of the following drugs: tricyclic antidepressants, calcium channel blockers, quinine and caffeine. If taken with carmustine there is the possibility that bone marrow toxicity will be enhanced. This medication will not interfere with any lab testing. Patients should be advised not take over-the-counter medication, herbal medicines or dietary supplements without the prescribing physician’s knowledge. Some counseling regarding lifestyle changes, stress reduction and dietary changes (no spicy foods and alcohol) is recommended. Laboratory testing and follow-up visits will be important to monitor the efficacy of the medication. Smoking cessation is highly recommended due to the fact that smoking will reduce the ulcer healing efficacy of Cimetidine.
Thanx