Alternative names 
Cimetidine; H2 Receptor antagonists; Ranitidine; Zantac; Famotidine, Pepcid; Nizatidine; Axid

Definition
H2 receptor antagonist poisoning is an overdose of an H2 receptor antagonist. H2 receptor antagonists are medications available by prescription and over-the-counter for reducing stomach acid.

Poisonous Ingredient

 
• Cimetidine  
• Ranitidine  
• Famotidine  
• Nizatidine

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Where Found

 
• Cimetidine (Tagamet)  
• Ranitidine (Zantac)  
• Famotidine (Pepcid)  
• Nizatidine (Axid)

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms

 
• Respiratory       o Difficulty breathing  
• Skin       o Fushing       o Sweating  
• Gastrointestinal       o Vomiting       o Diarrhea  
• Heart and blood vessels       o Rapid heartbeat or slow heartbeat       o Abnormal heartbeat       o Low blood pressure  
• Nervous system       o Tremors       o Confusion       o Drowsiness       o Slurred speech

Home Treatment
DO NOT induce vomiting. Call Poison Control or your local emergency number if an overdose of an H2 receptor antagonist has occured.

Before Calling Emergency
Determine the following information:

 
• Patient’s age, weight, and condition  
• The name of the product (ingredients and strengths if known)  
• When it was swallowed  
• The amount swallowed

Poison Control, or a local emergency number
Call Poison Control or your local emergency number - they will instruct you if it is necessary to take the patient to the hospital. See Poison Control centers for telephone numbers and addresses. Take the container with you to the emergency room.

What to expect at the emergency room
Some or all of the following procedures may be performed:

 
• Administering activated charcoal  
• Administering a laxative  
• Emptying the stomach (gastric lavage)  
• Administering artificial respiration (breathing) if necessary  
• Maintaining adequate respiration rate  
• Treating the symptoms

Expectations (prognosis)
Serious complications are rare.

Medical Encyclopedia

All ArmMed Media material is provided for information only and is neither advice nor a substitute for proper medical care. Consult a qualified healthcare professional who understands your particular history for individual concerns.