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Tagamet HCl is used to treat ulcers; gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition in which backward flow of acid from the stomach causes heartburn and injury of the food pipe (esophagus); and conditions where the stomach produces too much acid, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Over-the-counter Tagamet HCl is used to prevent and treat symptoms of heartburn associated with acid indigestion and sour stomach. Tagamet HCl is in a class of medications called H2 blockers. It decreases the amount of acid made in the stomach.
Tagamet HCl comes as a tablet and a liquid to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day at bedtime or two to four times a day with meals and at bedtime. Over-the-counter Tagamet HCl is usually taken once or twice a day with a glass of water. To prevent symptoms, it is taken within 30 minutes before eating or drinking foods that cause heartburn. Follow the directions on your prescription or the package label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Tagamet HCl exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Do not take over-the-counter Tagamet HCl for longer than 2 weeks unless your doctor tells you to. If symptoms of heartburn, acid indigestion, or sour stomach last longer than 2 weeks, stop taking Tagamet HCl and call your doctor. |