H2 blockers how do they work

You could be dealing with GERD. Learn what causes it, and what treatment options are available. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. H2 Receptor Blockers. What Are H2 Receptor Blockers? H2 Receptor Blockers vs. Alternative Treatments. Read this next. Proton Pump Inhibitors. Medically reviewed by Susan J. Bliss, R. Medically reviewed by University of Illinois. Prilosec vs. Zantac: How Are They Different?

Medically reviewed by Alan Carter, Pharm. A transoral incisionless fundoplication — TIF procedure reconstructs the antireflux valve. The procedure of TIF typically takes less than an hour, is often covered by insurance , and has clinical results that show improved quality of life and removal of dependence on medical therapies.

All therapy options for GERD should be consulted with your doctor or health care provider. Making changes to your lifestyle, taking medication, or considering surgery may all have impacts on your health that should be addressed with a medical professional. Atypical symptoms may include: Hoarseness or laryngitis; Asthma or asthma-like symptoms; Chronic dry or irritated throat; Persistent cough; Burning in the mouth or throat; Discomfort in the ears or nose; Trouble sleeping.

What Are H2 Blockers? How Do H2 Blockers Work? Types of H2 Blockers There are four types of H2 receptor blockers that are acknowledged by the Food and Drug Administration for treatments of gastric ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease, acid-peptic disease, and the prevention of stress ulcers and heartburn.

Cimetidine is the H2 blocker that was the first introduced to clinical practice. Cimetidine is available by prescription and over-the-counter under differing generic and brand names such as Tagamet or Tagamet HB, as well as intravenous and intramuscular forms.

Ranitidine is the second H2 blocker that was introduced into clinical practice. Famotidine is the third H2 blocker that was introduced to clinical practice. Lower doses are commonly used for heartburn and indigestion therapy. Famotidine is typically less likely to cause drug-to-drug interactions than cimetidine.

Most work equally as well. Side effects may vary from drug to drug. H2 blockers are most often taken by mouth. You can get them in the form of tablets, liquids, or capsules. H2 blockers may be bought in lower doses at the store without a prescription.

If you find yourself taking these most days for 2 weeks or more for acid reflux symptoms, make sure you see your health care provider about your symptoms. If you have a peptic ulcer, your provider may prescribe H2 blockers along with 2 or 3 other medicines for up to 2 weeks. If you are breastfeeding or pregnant, talk to your provider before taking these medicines.

If you have kidney problems, do not use famotidine without talking to your provider. Tell your provider about other medicines you are taking. H2 blockers may change the way certain drugs work. This problem is less likely with cimetidine and nizatidine. Guidelines for the diagnosis and management of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Some common side effects include:.

Ranitidine hydrochloride Zantac also comes in several forms, including prescription and nonprescription oral doses and an injectable solution. It is best to consult a healthcare provider before taking this drug. Also, it is important to follow instructions for use closely. The occurrence of mild side effects is slightly higher with this drug than with similar medications. Doctors do not know how common more serious side effects are, but some have reported :.

Consult a doctor before taking it. Like other H2 blockers, this medication may not be suitable for people with disorders of the kidney or liver. A doctor or another healthcare provider can offer specific guidance. Famotidine Fluxid comes in prescription and nonprescription oral formulas and as an intravenous infusion. Side effects can include:. All four drugs pass into breastmilk, and researchers have yet to determine whether H2 blockers are safe for pregnant or nursing women to take.

A doctor can provide more specific guidance. H2 blockers can interact with other drugs. For example, Tagamet may alter the effectiveness of some pain relief medications. It may also reduce the metabolism of warfarin, a blood thinner. In addition, people who take H2 blockers and magnesium supplements should do so at different times of day to avoid the risk of interactions. In general, anyone considering taking an H2 blocker should consult a healthcare provider first. Depending on the underlying issue, a doctor may recommend a more effective treatment.

For example, antibiotics are more effective at treating ulcers that result from infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria. Also, people may find relief from GERD symptoms by changing their diets.