Axid (nizatidine) is in a group of drugs called histamine-2 blockers. Nizatidine works by decreasing the amount of acid the stomach produces.
Axid is used to treat ulcers in the stomach and intestines. Axid also treats heartburn and erosive esophagitis caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition in which acid backs up from the stomach into the esophagus.
Axid may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Important information
You should not use Axid if you are allergic to nizatidine or similar medications such as ranitidine (Zantac), cimetidine (Tagamet), or famotidine (Pepcid).
Before taking Axid, tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease, or stomach cancer or other problems.
Avoid taking cimetidine (Tagamet), ranitidine (Zantac), or famotidine (Pepcid) while you are taking Axid, unless your doctor has told you to.
Axid can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.
Axid may be only part of a complete program of treatment that also includes changes in diet or lifestyle habits. Follow your doctor"s instructions very closely.
Heartburn is often confused with the first symptoms of a heart attack. Seek emergency medical attention if you have chest pain or heavy feeling, pain spreading to the arm or shoulder, nausea, sweating, and a general ill feeling.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Axid if you are allergic to nizatidine or similar medications such as ranitidine (Zantac), cimetidine (Tagamet), or famotidine (Pepcid).
Heartburn is often confused with the first symptoms of a heart attack. Seek emergency medical attention if you have chest pain or heavy feeling, pain spreading to the arm or shoulder, nausea, sweating, and a general ill feeling.
To make sure you can safely take Axid, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:
FDA pregnancy category B. Axid is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Nizatidine can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while taking this medication. Do not give Axid to a child younger than 12 years old without the advice of a doctor.
See also: Pregnancy and breastfeeding warnings (in more detail)
How should I take Axid?
Take Axid exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
Measure liquid medicine with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.
Although most ulcers heal within 4 weeks of Axid treatment, it may take up to 8 to 12 weeks of using this medicine before your ulcer heals. For best results, keep using the medication as directed. Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 6 weeks of treatment.
Axid can cause you to have unusual results with certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using Axid.
Axid may be only part of a complete program of treatment that also includes changes in diet or lifestyle habits. Follow your doctor"s instructions very closely.
Store Axid at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Throw away any unused Axid liquid that is older than 30 days.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
Overdose symptoms may include blurred vision, watery eyes, drooling, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
What should I avoid?
Axid may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert.
Avoid drinking alcohol. It can increase the risk of damage to your stomach.
Avoid taking cimetidine (Tagamet), ranitidine (Zantac), or famotidine (Pepcid) while you are taking Axid, unless your doctor has told you to.
Axid side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to Axid: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using Axid and call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:
-
pale skin, feeling light-headed or short of breath, rapid heart rate, trouble concentrating;
-
unusual bleeding, purple or red pinpoint spots under your skin;
-
skin rash, bruising, severe tingling, numbness, pain, muscle weakness;
-
fever, confusion; or
-
jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
Less serious Axid side effects may include:
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
See also: Side effects (in more detail)
What other drugs will affect Axid?
Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.
