Adverse Effects
H2 antagonists are, in general, well tolerated, except for cimetidine, wherein all of the following adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are common. Infrequent ADRs include hypotension. Rare ADRs include: headache, tiredness, dizziness, confusion, diarrhea, constipation, and rash. H2 antagonists as well as other antacid preparations by suppressing acid mediated break down of proteins, leads to an elevated risk of developing food and drug allergies. This happens due to undigested proteins then passing into the gastrointestinal tract. It is unclear whether this risk occurs with only long-term use or with short-term use as well. In addition, cimetidine may also cause gynecomastia in males, loss of libido, and impotence, which are reversible upon discontinuation.
In a longitudinal study of elderly African Americans published in 2007, long-term use of H2 blockers appeared to increase the risk of cognitive decline.
Read more about this topic: H2 Antagonist
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