Cimetidine Tablets (Generic) for Dogs & Cats

Who is it for?
Cimetidine dogs and cats.

What are the benefits?

How does Cimetidine work?
Cimetidine blocks the action of histamine in the stomach, where histamine triggers acid production.

Is there a generic equivalent available?
Cimetidine is a generic medication.

How is it given?
Cimetidine tablets are given by mouth.

Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian. If you have difficulty giving the medication, contact your veterinarian.

This medication should only be given to the pet for whom it was prescribed.

What results can I expect?
Cimetidine works rapidly after being absorbed from the intestinal tract. When used for the treatment of gastric ulcers, however, it must be used long-term since the ulcers may be slow to heal. Once the medication is discontinued, the stomach will start to produce more acid again.

What form(s) does it come in?
Tablet.

Please click on "More Information" for possible drug and food interactions with this medication.

Brand Name
Tagamet (human form)

Pronunciation
SY-me-ti-dean

Common Drug Name
Cimetidine

What should I discuss with my veterinarian while considering Cimetidine?
Talk to your veterinarian about what tests and exams may be necessary while your pet is taking Cimetidine. Also discuss what other or additional therapies may be available. Have your veterinarian explain how long the treatment period will be and what type of outcome is expected.

Tell your veterinarian if your pet has heart, liver, or kidney disease, may be pregnant or is nursing, or if you intend to breed your pet.

Notify your veterinarian of any other medications or supplements your pet is taking, and also if your pet has had any reactions to previous medications.

What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the regular schedule. Do not give two doses at once.

What is the most important information I should know?
Symptoms may reoccur if a dose is missed or if the medication is discontinued.

Who should not take it?
Not for use in dogs and cats hypersensitive (allergic) to Cimetidine. Use with caution in pets who are older, have blood abnormalities, or those with liver or kidney disease.

What side effects may be seen when taking Cimetidine?
Side effects are rare.

If your pet experiences an allergic reaction to the medication, signs may include facial swelling, hives, scratching, sudden onset of diarrhea, shock, seizures, pale gums, cold limbs, or coma. If you observe any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.

How is it stored?
Store in a tight, light-resistant, childproof container at room temperature. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do if I know of or suspect there has been an overdose?
May see rapid heart rate and difficulty breathing. If you know or suspect your pet has had an overdose, contact your veterinarian immediately.

What should I avoid when giving my pet Cimetidine?
Cimetidine may affect the levels of many different medications in the blood. Notify your veterinarian of any other medications, including vitamins and supplements, your pet is taking while receiving Cimetidine. Cimetidine may decrease white blood cell counts, especially if given with other bone marrow suppressing drugs such as azathioprine. If used with antacids, ketoconazole, or other medications, give the Cimetidine two hours before or two hours after the other medication(s).

Where is more information available?
Ask your veterinarian, consult with one of our pharmacists at 1-800-447-3021, or see the Patient Information Sheet on this medication.