cimetidine - injection, Tagamet
GENERIC NAME: CIMETIDINE - INJECTION (sye-MET-uh-deen)
BRAND NAME(S): Tagamet
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects |
Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes |
Missed Dose | Storage
USES: Cimetidine is used to treat ulcers of the stomach or intestines and prevent them from returning after treatment. This medication is also used to treat certain stomach and throat problems caused by too much acid (e.g., Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, erosive esophagitis) or a backward flow of stomach acid into the esophagus (gastroesophageal reflux disease-GERD).This form of cimetidine is given by injection and is used for short-term treatment of these conditions when you cannot take this medication by mouth. Your doctor should switch you to taking this medication by mouth when possible.Cimetidine injection is also used to prevent serious stomach bleeding in very ill patients (usually in the hospital/ICU).Cimetidine is known as an H2 histamine blocker. It works by reducing the amount of acid in your stomach. This effect helps heal and prevent ulcers and improves symptoms such as heartburn and stomach pain.
HOW TO USE: Cimetidine is injected into a vein or muscle as directed by your doctor, usually every 6 to 8 hours. When injected into a vein, cimetidine should be given slowly over at least 5 minutes. Giving the medication too fast may cause dizziness, irregular heartbeat, or a drop in blood pressure.The dosage and length of treatment are based on your medical condition and response to treatment. The dosage in children may also be based on body weight. Do not increase your dose, use this medication more often than prescribed, or stop using it without first consulting your doctor.If you are giving this medication to yourself at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care professional. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.
SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, and pain/redness at the injection site may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: breast tenderness/swelling, joint/muscle pain, mental/mood changes (e.g., restlessness, confusion, depression, hallucinations), trouble starting the flow of urine, easy bruising/bleeding, fainting, fast/slow/irregular heartbeat, signs of infection (e.g., fever, persistent sore throat, cough), persistent nausea/vomiting, decreased sexual ability, muscle twitching, severe stomach/abdominal pain, unusual tiredness, dark urine, change in amount of urine, yellowing skin/eyes.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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