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Medication Written by Pharmacists Reviewed by Doctors

GENERIC NAME: nizatidine

BRAND NAME: Axid

DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Histamine is a natural chemical that stimulates stomach cells to produce acid. Nizatidine belongs to a class of medications called H2-blockers that inhibit the action of histamine on stomach cells, thus reducing stomach acid production.

PRESCRIPTION: Yes

GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes

PREPARATIONS: pulvules: 150 mg, 300 mg

STORAGE: Should be stored at room temperature in tightly closed container.

PRESCRIBED FOR: Nizatidine blocks the action of histamine on stomach cells, and reduces stomach acid production. Nizatidine is useful in promoting healing of stomach and duodenal ulcers, and in reducing ulcer pain. Nizatidine has been effective in preventing ulcer recurrence when given in low doses for prolonged periods of time. In doses higher than that used in ulcer treatment, nizatidine has been helpful in treating heartburn and in healing ulcer and inflammation of the esophagus resulting from acid reflux (reflux esophagitis).

DOSING: May be taken with or without food.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Nizatidine is generally well tolerated and safe. Safe use in children has not been established. A beneficial symptom response to nizatidine does not preclude the presence of stomach cancer. The dose of nizatidine is usually reduced in severe kidney failure to avoid excessive blood levels. This medication is not habit forming.

PREGNANCY: Safe use during pregnancy has not been established.

NURSING MOTHERS: The medication is secreted in milk and is generally discouraged in nursing mothers.

SIDE EFFECTS: Side effects are rare. Minor side effects include constipation, diarrhea, fatigue, headache, insomnia, muscle pain, nausea, and vomiting. Major side effects include agitation, anemia, confusion, depression, enlargement of the breasts, easy bruising or bleeding, hallucinations, hair loss, irregular heartbeat, impotence, rash, visual changes, and yellowing of the skin or eyes.


Last Editorial Review: 12/31/1997




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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