The following information is a summary about Axid. It is not intended to replace a doctor's instructions.
What is nizatidine?
Nizatidine is in a class of drugs called histamine receptor antagonists. Nizatidine works by
decreasing the amount of acid the stomach produces.
Nizatidine is used to treat and prevent ulcers in the stomach and intestines. Nizatidine is also
used to treat conditions in which the stomach produces too much acid and conditions in which acid
comes up into the esophagus and causes heartburn, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Nizatidine may also be used for conditions other than those listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about nizatidine?
Do not stop taking nizatidine without first talking to your doctor. It may take up to 8 weeks
for an ulcer to heal.
Do not take antacids within 1 hour of taking nizatidine. Antacids may decrease the
effectiveness of nizatidine.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking nizatidine?
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have
You may not be able to take nizatidine, or you may require a dosage
adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
Nizatidine is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether
nizatidine will harm an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if
you are pregnant.
Nizatidine passes into breast milk. Do not take this medication without first talking to your
doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take nizatidine?
Take nizatidine exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions,
ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
Take each dose with a full glass of water.
Do not stop taking nizatidine without first talking to your doctor. It may take up to 8 weeks
for an ulcer to heal.
Store nizatidine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose,
skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this
medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention.
Symptoms of a nizatidine overdose include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, increased saliva
production, difficulty breathing, and a fast heartbeat.
What should I avoid while taking nizatidine?
There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activity while taking nizatidine, unless otherwise
directed by your doctor.
Nizatidine side effects
If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking nizatidine and call
your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical treatment:
- an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
- easy or unusual bruising or bleeding;
- bleeding gums;
- irregular heartbeat;
- fever and sore throat; or
- yellowing of the skin or eyes.
Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to
take nizatidine and talk to your doctor if you experience
- dizziness;
- headache; or
- diarrhea, nausea, or constipation.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor
about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
What other drugs will affect nizatidine?
Do not take antacids within 1 hour of taking nizatidine. Antacids may decrease the
effectiveness of nizatidine.
Nizatidine may affect the actions of other medications by changing the acidity of the stomach.
Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines
during treatment with nizatidine.
Where can I get more information?
- Your pharmacist has additional information about nizatidine written for health professionals that you may read.
What does my medication look like?
Nizatidine is available with a prescription under the brand name Axid. Nizatidine is also
available over the counter under the brand name Axid AR. Other brand or generic formulations may
also be available. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is
new to you.
- Axid 150 mg--pale/dark-yellow capsules
- Axid 300 mg--pale-yellow/brown capsules
-
Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your
medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
