Axid

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How does it work?

This medicine contains the active ingredient nizatidine, which is a type of medicine known as an H2-receptor antagonist. It works by reducing the production of stomach acid. Nizatidine blocks histamine H2-receptors that are found on cells in the stomach lining. Normally, a substance called histamine binds to these receptors. Histamine is a chemical produced throughout the body and has many effects; when it binds to H2-receptors on cells in the stomach lining it causes them to produce acid. Stomach acid is produced as a normal part of the digestive process. However, if large amounts of stomach acid are produced the excess acid may flow back into the food pipe (oesophagus), causing pain and a burning sensation known as heartburn. Excess stomach acid can also irritate the lining of the stomach and duodenum (an area of the intestine directly after the stomach). This lining normally resists attack from the stomach acid, but if the lining is damaged, for example due to treatment with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs such as ibuprofen), or large amounts of stomach acid are produced, a peptic ulcer can develop. As nizatidine blocks the H2 receptors on the cells in the stomach, it prevents histamine from binding to them. This decreases the amount of stomach acid produced by these cells and lowers the amount of acid in the stomach and duodenum. This action helps to relieve the pain of heartburn, and helps ulcers to heal, including those caused by NSAIDs. By decreasing the production of stomach acid nizatidine can also be used to prevent ulcers from recurring.

What is it used for?

- Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease
- Preventing recurrence of peptic ulcers
- Treatment of peptic ulcers

Warning!

- There is insufficient information regarding the safety and efficacy of this medicine in children. It is not recommended for children.
- This medicine can mask the symptoms of stomach cancer and therefore delay diagnosis of this condition. For this reason, when a stomach ulcer is suspected, your doctor should exclude the possibility of stomach cancer before you start treatment with this medicine, particularly if you are middle aged or older and have new or recently changed symptoms.

Use with caution in

- Decreased kidney function
- Decreased liver function

Not to be used in

- Allergy to other histamine H2 antagonists