H2 receptor antagonists overdose - Overview

Alternative Names

Cimetidine overdose; Tagamet overdose; Ranitidine overdose; Zantac overdose; Famotidine overdose; Pepcid overdose; Nizatidine overdose; Axid overdose

Definition of H2 receptor antagonists overdose:

H2 receptor antagonists are medicines that help decrease stomach acid. H2 receptor antagonist overdose occurs when someone accidentally or intentionally takes more than the normal or recommended amount of this medication.

This is for information only and not for use in the treatment or management of an actual poison exposure. If you have an exposure, you should call your local emergency number (such as 911) or the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

Poisonous Ingredient:

Cimetidine
Ranitidine
Famotidine
Nizatidine

Note: This list may not be all-inclusive.

Where Found:

H2 receptor antagonist medications are available over the counter and by prescription.

Cimetidine (Tagamet)
Ranitidine (Zantac)
Famotidine (Pepcid)
Nizatidine (Axid)

Note: This list may not be all-inclusive.

Reviewed last on: 9/30/2009
Jacob L. Heller, MD, MHA, Emergency Medicine, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, Washington. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Chan FKL, Lau JYW. Treatment of peptic ulcer disease. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger and Fordtran’s Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 8th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2006:chap 51.

Weisman RS. Antihistamines and decongestants. In: Goldfrank LR, Flomenbaum NE, Lewin NA, et al., eds. Goldfrank's Toxicologic Emergencies. 7th ed. New York, NY: McGraw Hill; 2002:chap 35.

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