Questions in the Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Forum have been answered by Dr. Kevin Pho who is board certified in Internal Medicine and by doctors from Henry Ford Health System.

Subject: dependence on Tagamet?
Forum: The Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Forum
Topic Area: Gastroenterology - General
Posted by JAL on February 25, 1999 at 12:32:50:


Is it possible to get physically dependent on Tagamet or have 'backlash' when you stop taking it?

I have been taking about 4 300mg tablets per week for a condition I discussed in previous posts last year. I don't really feel it is acid related but it helps stop the symptoms and I don't seem to be having side effects. Before I started taking it I only had an acid problem or heartburn very rarely and had only taken anti-acids a couple of times in my life.

I am having some tests done and they told me not to take Tagamet (and Axcid, Pepcid, etc.) for a week beforehand. Yesterday I had the worst acid problem I have ever had. My throat was burning, my bowels were acting up and the stool was thin and burned.

Is it possible that it is related to my not taking Tagamet for a few days or is it just a coincidence?

Also, there is a small chance that I am pregnant (only a couple of weeks if I am). Could this be related? Is it OK to take Tagamet while pregnant?

Thanks for your help.



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