Cimetidine (sye-ME-ti-deen)

Treats ulcers and other conditions that cause the stomach to produce too much acid.

Brand Name(s):

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given.
• An IM shot is given in your muscle (upper arm, thigh, buttocks).
• An IV is medicine that is put directly into your body through one of your veins.
• This medicine should be given by a person trained to give IM or IV medicine, such as a nurse. Sometimes you, a family member, or friend can be taught to give your medicine.

If a dose is missed:

• Use your medicine as soon as you remember that you have missed your dose.
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your usual schedule.
• You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store your medicine at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. Do not put the medicine in the refrigerator.
• Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking blood thinners (Coumadin®), Dilantin®, Inderal® or Inderide®, Procardia®, Adalat®, Librium®, Valium®, Flagyl®, or theophylline.
• Avoid drinking alcohol or drinks with caffeine (such as coffee, tea, or cola) while you are using cimetidine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.
• Before using this medicine, make sure your doctor knows if you have liver disease.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Unexplained fever, chills, or sore throat
• Fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Dizziness or sleepiness
• Confusion or depression
• Swelling in the breasts
• Joint or muscle pain, cramps, or stiffness
• Mild skin rash

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088