Axid AR

Generic name: nizatidine [ ni-ZA-ti-deen ]
Drug class: H2 antagonists

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jul 2, 2024.

What is Axid AR?

Axid AR is non-prescription medicine that contains nizatidine. Nizatidine is a histamine-2 blocker that works by decreasing the amount of acid produced by the stomach.

Axid AR works by reducing the production of stomach acid that can cause heartburn.

Axid AR may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Axid AR can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.

You should not use Axid AR if you are allergic to nizatidine or similar medications such as ranitidine (Zantac), cimetidine (Tagamet), or famotidine (Pepcid).

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

Heartburn is often confused with the first symptoms of a heart attack. Seek emergency medical attention if you have chest pain or heavy feeling, pain spreading to the arm or shoulder, nausea, sweating, and a general ill feeling.

You should not use Axid AR if you are allergic to nizatidine or similar stomach medicines such as ranitidine (Zantac), cimetidine (Tagamet), or famotidine (Pepcid).

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to use Axid AR if you have other medical conditions, especially:

• pain when swallowing food;

• bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds;

• heartburn that has lasted for longer than 3 months;

• heartburn that causes you to wheeze or feel like you might pass out;

• unusual weight loss;

• stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting;

• frequent chest pain;

• kidney disease; or

• liver disease.

It is not known whether Axid AR will harm an unborn baby. Do not use this medicine without a doctor's advice if you are pregnant.

Nizatidine can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while taking this medication.

Do not give this medication to a child younger than 12 years old without the advice of a doctor.

How should I take Axid AR?

Use Axid AR exactly as directed on the label. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

To relieve heartburn symptoms, swallow 1 Axid AR tablet with a full glass of water.

To prevent heartburn symptoms, swallow 1 tablet with a full glass of water right before eating or up to 60 minutes before you eat or drink anything that may cause you to have heartburn.

Do not take more than 2 tablets in a 24-hour period.

Call your doctor if your heartburn symptoms do not improve after 14 days of treatment, or if you have worsening heartburn.

Axid AR may be only part of a complete program of treatment that also includes changes in diet or lifestyle habits. Follow your doctor's instructions very closely.

Axid AR can cause unusual results with certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using Axid AR.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

Related/similar drugs

omeprazole, famotidine, pantoprazole, esomeprazole, Protonix, Nexium, ranitidine, Pepcid, calcium carbonate, Prilosec

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Overdose symptoms may include blurred vision, watery eyes, drooling, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

What to avoid

To help manage your heartburn symptoms, avoid certain things that can make heartburn worse, such as:

• lying down or bending over shortly after eating;

• eating late at night;

• overeating or eating quickly;

• being overweight;

• wearing clothing that is tight around your waist;

• smoking;

• drinking alcohol; or

• eating spicy foods, fried foods, chocolate, caffeine, or acidic fruits or vegetables.

Axid AR side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Axid AR: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using Axid AR and call your doctor at once if you have:

• worsening heartburn;

• chest pain;

• pale skin, feeling light-headed or short of breath; or

• jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Common Axid AR side effects may include:

• headache, dizziness;

• diarrhea; or

• runny or stuffy nose.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Axid AR?

Other drugs may interact with nizatidine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use Axid AR only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Copyright 1996-2024 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 8.01.