Cimetidine
Cimetidine is a histamine H2-receptor antagonist that works by blocking histamine receptors in the stomach, thereby reducing the volume and acidity of gastric secretion.
Dosage by Body Weight
Adults and children 12 years and older typically take 200 mg to 800 mg orally depending on the indication (e.g., 200 mg for heartburn, up to 800 mg for active ulcers). Pediatric dosing is weight-based, generally 20 to 40 mg/kg/day divided into 4 doses, and must be supervised by a healthcare provider.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not routine
- Frequency
- Use only if prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Safety and efficacy in infants under 1 year have not been established. Strict medical supervision required.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- 25 mg to 50 mg
- Frequency
- Four times daily (every 6 hours)
- Tracking Notes
- Based on 20-40 mg/kg/day. Use a precise measuring device for liquid formulations.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 40 mg to 80 mg
- Frequency
- Four times daily (every 6 hours)
- Tracking Notes
- Based on 20-40 mg/kg/day. Consult a physician before administering to young children.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 60 mg to 120 mg
- Frequency
- Four times daily (every 6 hours)
- Tracking Notes
- Based on 20-40 mg/kg/day. Often prescribed as an oral solution.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 80 mg to 160 mg
- Frequency
- Four times daily (every 6 hours)
- Tracking Notes
- Based on 20-40 mg/kg/day. Do not exceed adult maximum dosages.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not routine | Use only if prescribed | Safety and efficacy in infants under 1 year have not been established. Strict medical supervision required. |
| 5-7 kg | 25 mg to 50 mg | Four times daily (every 6 hours) | Based on 20-40 mg/kg/day. Use a precise measuring device for liquid formulations. |
| 8-10 kg | 40 mg to 80 mg | Four times daily (every 6 hours) | Based on 20-40 mg/kg/day. Consult a physician before administering to young children. |
| 11-15 kg | 60 mg to 120 mg | Four times daily (every 6 hours) | Based on 20-40 mg/kg/day. Often prescribed as an oral solution. |
| 16-20 kg | 80 mg to 160 mg | Four times daily (every 6 hours) | Based on 20-40 mg/kg/day. Do not exceed adult maximum dosages. |
Formulation
Purpose
Reduces stomach acid production to treat and prevent heartburn, acid indigestion, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and peptic ulcers.
Generic Name
CimetidineBranded Drug Names
Cimetidine is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
No. This medicine is generally not treated as a scheduled/prescription-only drug in common consumer references, but local rules may vary.