Cimetidine (Tagamet)

Visit: https://nursing.com/140meds to request your free copy of "140 Must Know Meds"
Generic Name

Cimetidine
Trade Name

Tagamet
Indication

Treatment of duodenal ulcers, GERD, heartburn, Zollinger Ellison syndrome, prevention of GI bleeding in critical patients.
Action

Inhibits action of histamine leading to inhibition of gastric acid secretion
Therapeutic Class

Antiulcer agent
Pharmacologic Class

Histamine H2 antagonist
Nursing Considerations

• Increases serum level of warfarin • Can lead to respiratory infection (green sputum) • Monitor for arrhythmias • May cause agranulocytosis, aplastic anemia • Monitor CBC during therapy • Take medication as directed • Instruct patient to increase fluid and fiber intake to decrease constipation