Do you also often have problems like heartburn or gastritis ? Or do you not sleep at night because of heartburn? In such cases, your doctor may have given you a medicine called Nizatidine. You may know it by the brand name Axid. So, today we will talk very simply about what this medicine is, how it works on the body, what to be careful about while using it, and what are the possible side effects .
What exactly is this medicine called Nizatidine?
Simply put, Nizatidine is a drug that reduces the production of acid in our stomach, that is, in the stomach . This belongs to a class of drugs called H2-receptor antagonists. There are cells in our stomach that produce acid. These cells have special receptors that give a signal to “make acid.” Nizatidine stops that signal. It’s like turning off a tap, reducing the amount of acid that comes out.
Because it reduces stomach acid, doctors recommend this medication to treat the following conditions:
- Heartburn: A burning sensation in the chest that occurs when stomach acid comes up into the throat .
- Stomach Ulcers : Heal ulcers inside the stomach and prevent new ones from forming.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease ( GERD ): This is a condition similar to what we call 'gastritis', in which stomach acid constantly comes up into the throat.
- High stomach acid conditions: For cases where stomach acid is produced excessively due to other diseases.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking medicine
Before you start taking Nizatidine, there are a few things you should definitely tell your doctor. Don't ignore these as they are minor details, as this information is very important for your safety and the success of your treatment.
Remember, your doctor is like your best friend. Sharing your health information accurately is the only way he can give you the best treatment.
| Matter to be informed | Why is that important? |
|---|---|
| If you have kidney or liver disease | This medicine is eliminated from the body through the kidneys and liver. So if there is a problem with these organs, the dosage of the medicine may need to be changed. |
| If you have black or tarry stools , or if you vomit blood | These may be signs of stomach bleeding. The cause of this should be investigated before starting nizatidine. |
| If you have difficulty or pain swallowing food | This could be a sign of a serious medical condition, so it should be checked out first. |
| If you have an allergy to nizatidine or other medicines or foods. | This is essential to prevent the risk of allergies. |
| If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding | In these cases, some medications may affect the baby. Therefore, you should talk to your doctor and decide what is best for you. |
How exactly do I use this medicine?
The method of using this medicine is very simple, but the most important thing is to follow exactly as the doctor says.
- How to take: Swallow this medicine whole with a glass of water. Do not break or crush the tablet.
- Time of taking: If your doctor tells you to take it once a day, it is best to take it at bedtime . If you are told to take it twice a day, leave a gap of about 12 hours between morning and night. Make it a habit to take your medicine on time.
- Duration: You may start to feel better in two or three days. But never stop taking the medicine before the end of the period prescribed by your doctor. If you do, your symptoms may return.
- If given to children: If this medicine is given to children, it may require special care. So talk to your doctor about it and give the exact dosage he or she recommends.
What to do if you overdose on medication?
Don't panic. If you think you have accidentally taken more than the prescribed dose of this medicine, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
What if I forget to take my medicine?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Do not take a double dose for any reason.
Other things to be careful about when taking medication
- If the pain doesn't go away: If your stomach pain or chest pain doesn't go away after a few days of taking the medication, or if it feels like it's getting worse, be sure to tell your doctor.
- Other painkillers: Do not take anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin and ibuprofen with this medicine without your doctor's advice. These medications can worsen stomach ulcers.
- Smoking and alcohol: Both of these can further damage the lining of your stomach and delay healing. Therefore, stop smoking and drinking alcohol completely, at least while you are taking the medication.
- Warning signs: If you have black, tarry stools or vomit that looks like coffee grounds , it could be a sign of bleeding in the stomach. In such cases, see a doctor immediately.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, Nizatidine can cause side effects in some people. However, not everyone gets them. Let's take a look at what they are.
| Side effects that require immediate medical attention | |
|---|---|
Allergic Reactions: If you experience any symptoms such as skin rash, itching, swelling of the eyes, lips, tongue, or face, or difficulty breathing, stop taking the medicine immediately and see a doctor or go to a hospital. | |
| Common side effects that may occur and should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Diarrhea | Headache |
| Dizziness | |
If you notice anything unusual that isn't on this list, don't be afraid to talk to your doctor about it.
How do you store medicine?
- Keep out of reach of children: Keep locked up and out of reach of children and pets.
- Storage temperature: Store at room temperature (between 15-30 degrees Celsius). Protect from excessive heat and moisture.
- After expiration: Do not use any medicine that has passed the expiration date on the medicine packet and dispose of it safely.
Take-Home Message
- Nizatidine is a medication that reduces stomach acid production and treats conditions such as gastritis, heartburn, and stomach ulcers.
- Before starting this medication, be sure to tell your doctor about any other illnesses you have and any other medications you are taking.
- Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by the doctor, for the full duration. Do not stop taking it halfway.
- Completely avoid smoking and drinking alcohol while taking the medicine.
- If you experience serious allergic symptoms or suspect stomach bleeding (black stools), seek medical advice immediately.
- If you have any questions about this medication, never be afraid to discuss it with your doctor.
Nizatidine, gastritis, heartburn, stomach acid, stomach ulcers, side effects, Axid
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