Axid

Common Name: nizatidine

How does Axid work?

Nizatidine belongs to the family of medications called H2-receptor antagonists. Nizatidine works by reducing the amount of acid secreted by the stomach. Reducing the acid helps to reduce the pain of ulcers and heartburn and to assist in the healing of ulcers and damage caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease. Nizatidine is also used to prevent duodenal ulcers in certain circumstances. Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

How should I use Axid?

The adult dose of nizatidine ranges from 150 mg daily for prevention of ulcers to 300 mg daily (either 150 mg twice a day or 300 mg at bedtime) for treatment of ulcers and healing of damage caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease. Nizatidine may be taken with or without food. Antacids may be used along with nizatidine if extra relief from excess acid is needed. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. It is very important that this medication be taken regularly and exactly as prescribed by the doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without first talking with your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue on with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue on with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

What form(s) does Axid come in?

Axid® is available in strengths of 150 mg and 300 mg. 150 mg: Each pale yellow and dark yellow capsule contains nizatidine 150 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients include magnesium stearate, silicone, and starch; the capsule shell may contain gelatin, iron oxide yellow, and titanium dioxide. 300 mg: Each pale yellow and brown capsule contains nizatidine 300 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients include carboxymethylcellulose sodium, povidone, silicone, starch, and talc; the capsule shell may contain gelatin, iron oxide red, iron oxide yellow, and titanium dioxide.

What should I NOT take with Axid?

Nizatidine should not be taken by people who are allergic to nizatidine or any ingredients of the medication or any H2-receptor antagonists (e.g., ranitidine, famotidine, cimetidine).

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Axid?

Kidneys: Nizatidine is removed from the body by the kidneys. People with moderately or severely reduced kidney function may need to have their dosage changed. Liver: Nizatidine is partly broken down by the liver. People with reduced liver function should use this medication with caution. Pregnancy: The safety of using this medication during pregnancy has not been established, although it is not thought to be harmful. If nizatidine is considered to be necessary during pregnancy, the potential benefits should be weighed against any possible risk. Breast-feeding: Nizatidine passes into breast milk. Nursing women should use it with caution.