Nizatidine reduces the amount of acid produced in the stomach.
Nizatidine can be bought from pharmacies to help relieve the symptoms of food-related heartburn and indigestion in adults and over 16 year-olds.
The most commonly experienced side-effects are diarrhoea, dizziness and tiredness. These effects are usually mild and do not last long.
About nizatidine
Type of medicine
H2-receptor antagonist
Used for
Stomach and duodenal ulcers GORD (gastro-oesophageal reflux disease) Heartburn and indigestion
Also called
Axid®
Available as
Capsules
Nizatidine is used to treat certain conditions caused by too much acid being produced in the stomach, such as stomach ulcers (gastric ulcers), ulcers of the upper part of the intestine (duodenal ulcers) and gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (acid reflux or heartburn).
Nizatidine can also be used to treat or prevent irritation and ulceration of the stomach caused by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Acid is produced naturally in the stomach to help digest food. Excessive amounts of acid can irritate the stomach lining causing inflammation, ulcers and other conditions. Nizatidine works by reducing the amount of acid produced in the stomach, relieving pain and helping to repair the damage.
Before taking nizatidine
Before taking nizatidine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:
If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
If you have liver or kidney problems.
If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
How to take nizatidine
Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
Take nizatidine exactly as directed by your doctor.
Try to take nizatidine at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses. It is usually taken once or twice a day.
If you forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose, in which case skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses together to make up.
Getting the most from your treatment
Smoking increases the amount of acid produced by the stomach and will aggravate your condition. If you are a smoker, speak to your doctor or pharmacist about how to quit.
Try to avoid foods that may upset your stomach, such as alcohol, citrus fruits and juices, drinks containing caffeine, tomatoes or spicy food.
Keep any regular doctor's appointments so that your progress can be monitored.
Can nizatidine cause problems?
Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.
Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine
What can I do if I experience this
Diarrhoea
Drink plenty of water to replace any lost fluids
Stomach upset
Eat little and often. Stick to simple foods
Headache
Ask your pharmacist to recommend a suitable painkiller
Dizziness, skin rash and tiredness
If any of these are troublesome, let your doctor or pharmacist know
Important: if you experience any unexplained fever, sore throat, bruising, or swelling of the face and mouth with difficulty breathing, speak with your doctor immediately or go to your local accident and emergency department without delay.
If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
How to store nizatidine
Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
Important information about all medicines
If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.
References
British National Formulary; 57th Edition (March 2009) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.
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