What is Cimetidine TabletsTablet ?
Cimetidine is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as histamine-2 blockers. It is commonly sold under the brand name Tagamet, among others. Cimetidine works by reducing the amount of acid your stomach produces.
Cimetidine Tablets Tablet Uses
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Cimetidine helps relieve symptoms of GERD, which occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing symptoms like heartburn and acid indigestion.
- Peptic Ulcers: Cimetidine is used to treat and prevent peptic ulcers, which are sores that form on the lining of the stomach or small intestine.
- Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome: This is a rare condition where the stomach produces too much acid. Cimetidine can be used to manage the excessive acid production.
- Esophagitis: Cimetidine can help with certain types of esophagitis, which is inflammation of the esophagus, often due to exposure to stomach acid.
- Heartburn and Indigestion: It is available over the counter for occasional relief from heartburn and indigestion.
Cimetidine Tablets Tablet – Mechanism of Action and Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action:
- Histamine-2 Receptor Antagonist: Cimetidine is classified as an H2 receptor antagonist. It specifically targets and blocks histamine-2 receptors in the stomach lining.
- Inhibition of Gastric Acid Secretion: When histamine binds to the H2 receptors in the stomach, it triggers a series of events that lead to the secretion of gastric acid. By blocking these receptors, cimetidine reduces the amount of acid produced by the stomach.
- Reduction of Basal and Stimulated Acid Output: Cimetidine not only reduces the amount of acid produced in response to stimuli (like food), but it also decreases the baseline (basal) level of acid production.
Pharmacology:
- Absorption: Cimetidine is well-absorbed after oral administration. Its absorption is not significantly affected by the presence of food in the stomach.
- Distribution: It is distributed throughout the body, including the liver, kidneys, and other tissues. It can also cross the blood-brain barrier, which means it can affect the central nervous system.
Cimetidine Tablets Tablet – Side-effects
- Headache: Some people may experience mild to moderate headaches.
- Dizziness or Lightheadedness: This can occur, particularly when standing up quickly.
- Constipation or Diarrhea: Changes in bowel movements can occur, although these are generally mild.
- Nausea or Upset Stomach: Some individuals may experience mild stomach discomfort.
