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Cimetidine is marketed by the GlaxoSmithKline under the trade name
Tagamet sometimes Tagamet HB or Tagamet HB200. Cimetidine is a known
inhibitor of many isohyets of the cytochrome P450 enzyme system
specifically CYP1A2, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, and CYP3A4. This inhibition
forms the basis of the numerous drug interactions that occur between
Cimetidine and other drugs. Cimetidine may decrease metabolism of
some drugs, such as those used in hormonal contraception.
Cimetidine interferes with metabolism of the hormone estrogen,
enhancing estrogen activity. In women, this can lead to galactorrhea,
whereas in men gynecomastia and a reduced sperm count may be the
result. Adverse drug reactions were also found to be relatively
common with Cimetidine. It includes interactions with the
antimalarial medication Hydroxychloroquine.
The development of longer-acting H2-receptor antagonists with
reduced adverse effects such as ranitidine proved to be the downfall
of Cimetidine. Whilst it is still used, it is no longer amongst the
more widely used H2-receptor antagonists.
Cimetidine should be used with caution in cases of hepatic
impairment and cardiovascular disease. Side effects can include
dizziness, more rarely headache. Severe allergic reactions may also
occur due to the side effect of this drug. The common problems like
rashes, itching and swelling on the face have been noticed. Symptoms
of heart failure, liver problems have also been very severe side
effect as seen in the past results. Any drug having side effects
does not mean that it may be suffered by all. A proper prescription
can bring the best result in using the medicine.
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