Cimetidine: Side Effects, Uses & Monitoring

Cimetidine tablets are indicated in: 1.

Data source
FDA labeling via NIH DailyMed (label ebd53065…)
Label version
current
Last reviewed
2026
Side effects

Reported adverse reactions

Reactions listed in current FDA labeling, with the highest frequency reported across summarized placebo-controlled trials.

No structured frequency data available in current labeling. Consult the official label.

Uses

Labeled uses (from FDA prescribing information)

Cimetidine tablets are indicated in: 1.         Short-term treatment of active duodenal ulcer. Most patients heal within 4 weeks and there is rarely reason to use cimetidine tablets at full dosage for longer than 6 to 8 weeks (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION: Duodenal Ulcer ). Concomitant antacids should be given as needed for relief of pain. However, simultaneous administration of cimetidine tablets and antacids is not recommended, since antacids have been reported to interfere with the absorption of cimetidine. 2.         Maintenance therapy for duodenal ulcer patients at reduced dosage after healing of active ulcer. Patients have been maintained on continued treatment with cimetidine tablets 400 mg at bedtime for periods of up to 5 years. 3.         Short-term treatment of active benign gastric ulcer. There is no information concerning usefulness of treatment periods of longer than 8 weeks. 4.         Erosive gastroesophageal reflux (GERD). Erosive esophagitis diagnosed by endoscopy. Treatment is indicated for 12 weeks for healing of lesions and control of symptoms. The use of cimetidine tablets beyond 12 weeks has not been established (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION: GERD ). 5.   …

Related conditions

Conditions associated with Cimetidine in labeling

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cimetidine used for?

FDA labeling lists the approved uses shown above under "Labeled uses." This summary is informational; only a qualified prescriber can determine whether a medication is appropriate for you.

What are the most commonly reported side effects of Cimetidine?

Current labeling for this ingredient does not include a structured frequency table that we can reproduce. Review the official label linked below.

Does Cimetidine require lab monitoring?

Monitoring needs vary. Ask your healthcare provider whether any lab tests apply while taking Cimetidine.

Where does this information come from?

All clinical facts on this page were extracted from the current FDA-registered product labeling for this ingredient, published by manufacturers through NIH DailyMed. See the source link below.

Medical disclaimer: Educational content extracted from public FDA labeling. Not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.

Educational content only: The information on Symptom Database.com is for educational purposes and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider. Read our full disclaimer.