Axid

(Nizatidine)

The active ingredient in Axid is nizatidine, which belongs to the drug class called histamine H2 antagonists (H2 blockers). It inhibits acid production in the stomach, preventing heartburn and aiding in the healing of ulcers.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Axid. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Axid:

• Axid is taken once or twice daily. If you are taking Axid once a day, it is typically taken at bedtime.
• You can take Axid with or without food. If it upsets your stomach, try taking it with food.
• Call your doctor if your heartburn symptoms do not improve after 14 days of treatment, or if you have worsening heartburn.
• Axid may be used as part of a comprehensive therapy plan that includes dietary and lifestyle adjustments. Follow your doctor's instructions closely.

The most common side effects of Axid include:

• Headaches.
• Stomach pain.
• Runny or stuffy nose.
• Lightheadedness.
• Passing gas.
• Nausea.
• Diarrhea.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Axid. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Severe allergic reactions such as swelling in the face or throat, shortness of breath, and hives.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Axid. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Axid, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including:

• Allergic to ranitidine (Zantac), cimetidine (Tagamet), or famotidine (Pepcid).
• Pain when swallowing.
• Heartburn that lasts longer than 3 months.
• Heartburn that makes you wheeze or feel as if you're going to pass out.
• Unusual weight loss.
• Stomach ache, nausea, or vomiting.
• Frequent chest pain.
• Kidney disease.
• Liver disease.
• You drink alcohol.

Severe allergies to nizatidine or other H2 blockers like ranitidine, cimetidine, or famotidine.

Axid prevents the release of stomach acid within an hour. If you use nizatidine for a duodenal ulcer, it normally heals within 4 weeks.

When Axid is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Aspirin.
• Other H2 blockers.
• Antacids.
• Other medications like atazanavir, bosutinib, dasatinib, erlotinib, indinavir, infigratinib, itraconazole, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, mesalamine, neratinib, pazopanib, pexidartinib, ponatinib, and sotorasib.

Duodenal (small intestine) ulcer: The average dose is 300 mg orally once a day at bedtime or 150 mg twice a day. After the ulcer heals, the dosage is usually reduced to 150 mg once a day at bedtime.

Gastric (stomach) ulcer: The standard dose is 300 mg orally once a day at bedtime, or 150 mg twice a day.

Erosive esophagitis and heartburn caused by GERD: The normal dose is 150 mg taken orally twice a day.

Store at room temperature and keep out of reach of children.

Eli Lilly and Company is the manufacturer of this medication.

There are lower generic versions available for Axid.

Take nizatidine precisely as prescribed. Do not take more or less of it, or take it more frequently than recommended by your doctor. If you get heartburn, acid indigestion, or a sour stomach after taking nizatidine for more than two weeks, stop taking it and contact your doctor.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Nizatidine can enter breast milk and may cause problems for your nursing infant. You should avoid breastfeeding while using this drug.