Nizatidine (By mouth)

Introduction:

Nizatidine (nye-ZA-ti-deen)

Treats ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and conditions that cause the stomach to produce too much stomach acid. Belongs to a class of drugs called histamine H2-blockers.

Brand Name(s):

Axid, Axid Pulvules, Axid AR

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to famotidine or to similar medicines such as ranitidine (Zantac®), cimetidine (Tagamet®), or famotidine (Pepcid®, Fluxid?).

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet, Liquid, Capsule

  • Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
  • If you are using this medicine without a prescription, follow the instructions on the medicine label.
  • If you are taking: One dose a day, take at bedtime. Two doses a day, take one in the morning and one at bedtime. Several doses daily, take doses with your meals and at bedtime.
  • Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.

If a dose is missed:

  • If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
  • Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.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 away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

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

  • You should not use nizatidine within 2 hours before or after taking ketoconazole (an antifungal drug).
  • Avoid using large amounts of aspirin while taking nizatidine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding, or if you have kidney disease or liver disease.
  • Nizatidine may not work as well if you smoke.
  • If your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse, call your doctor.
  • Make sure any doctor or dentist who treats you knows that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect the results of certain medical tests.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

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

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
  • Dark-colored urine or pale stools.
  • Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness.
  • Yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes.

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

  • Breast tenderness (or breast swelling in men).
  • Dizziness.
  • Mild nausea.
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