Cimetidine: how to take it safely
Tagamet
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Reduces stomach acid for heartburn and ulcers.
How to take it
Swallow with water.
When to take it
Take it when symptoms start, or at bedtime, as the label directs.
Take it with
With or without food.
What to avoid
- Spicy and acidic foods that trigger heartburn.
- Alcohol and smoking.
- Antacids at the same time as it, unless the label says so.
- Tell your pharmacist about other medicines you take, such as warfarin, theophylline and phenytoin. It can change their effect.
Possible side effects
Headache, dizziness, constipation or diarrhoea.
Get help if
Black stools, vomiting blood, trouble swallowing or symptoms lasting more than 2 weeks: see a doctor.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.