Tagamet (Cimetidine)

Do’s

• Tagamet should be taken by mouth with or without food as directed by your healthcare provider. The dosage and length of treatment are based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully.
• If you are also taking antacids to relieve stomach pain as recommended by your healthcare provider, separate them from Tagamet by at least 1 hour.
• Take this medication regularly as prescribed in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day. 
• Continue taking this medication for the prescribed length of treatment, even if you are feeling better. Stopping treatment too early may delay the healing process.
• For those using nonprescription cimetidine for self-treatment of acid indigestion or heartburn, take 1 tablet by mouth with a glass of water as needed. To prevent heartburn, take 1 tablet by mouth with a glass of water right before or up to 30 minutes before eating food or drinking beverages that cause heartburn

Don’t

• Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often than directed. 
• Do not take more than 2 tablets of nonprescription cimetidine in 24 hours unless directed by your healthcare provider. Additionally, do not take it for more than 14 days in a row without talking with your healthcare provider.

Common Side Effects

• Headache
• Diarrhea

Serious Side Effects:

• Pain when swallowing
• Bloody or tarry stools
• Changes in mood
• Anxiety
• Agitation
• Confusion
• Hallucinations
• Breast swelling or tenderness

Very Rare Side Effects (less than 0.01%): 

• Epidermal necrolysis
• Erythema multiforme
• Generalized exfoliative erythroderma
• Reversible alopecia
• Severe generalized skin reactions
• Stevens-Johnson syndrome 

This is not a complete list of side effects, and others may occur. If any unusual or severe side effects are experienced, seek medical advice promptly.

Follow all directions on the medicine label and package, and inform each healthcare provider about all medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines being used.

If pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a healthcare provider before taking this medication.

Do not use Tagamet if allergic to cimetidine or other acid reducers.

Do not use Tagamet if experiencing trouble or pain swallowing food, vomiting with blood, or bloody or black stools. These may be signs of a serious condition requiring prompt medical advice.

Do not use Tagamet with other acid reducers.

This is not a complete list of warnings and precautions. Consult a healthcare provider for comprehensive information and guidance.