Cimetidine is a histamine H2-receptor antagonist or blocker that is available in both prescription strengths and as an over-the-counter medication. The former may be used in the treatment of ulcers of the duodenum, which is the upper portion of the small intestines. The OTC variety generally is used in the treatment of indigestion and heartburn. It works to decrease the acid the stomach produces.
Serious Side Effects
All serious side effects from taking cimetidine are rare, according to the Mayo Clinic, but they do indicate you should talk to your physician as soon as possible if you experience any of them. Such side effects may include skin yellowing or eye yellowing, breathing that includes wheezing, pain throughout the body, irregular or slow breathing, skin peeling, abnormal weakness, irritation of the eyes, difficulty breathing, bradycardia (a reduced heart rate), foot or hand swelling, itching, spotting (white), ulcers or sores on the genitals, mouth or lips and throat soreness. Others may include chest tightness, anxiety, fainting, dizziness, arrhythmia or an irregular heart rate, tachycardia (a fast heartbeat), palpitations, symptoms similar to the flu, discoloration of feces, agitation, fever, confusion, depression, hives, pain in the joints, hallucinations, blood vessel inflammation, pain in the abdomen, dizziness and blurred vision.
Temporary Side Effects
Cimetidine also may induce some side effects only when you first take it. They generally disappear with continued use of the drug. These side effects include insomnia, constipation, lowered libido, breast swelling or soreness in men and women, a reduction in sexual ability, a runny nose and diarrhea. Others may include noises in the ears, urination difficulties, hair loss, dizziness, increased sweating, drowsiness, changes in urination output, skin or mouth dryness and headaches.
Overdose Side Effects
Whether you are taking the OTC or prescription form of cimetidine, taking too much of it can cause overdose side effects. To avoid these, take only the recommended dose. Overdose side effects may include tachycardia and respiratory failure, according to Drugs.com, which recommends against taking two doses as once.
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