Key takeaways
Cimetidine (Tagamet HB) and pantoprazole (Protonix) are both used to treat conditions related to excess stomach acid, but they belong to different drug classes and have some key differences. Cimetidine is a histamine H2 receptor antagonist (H2RA) that can be bought over-the-counter for heartburn or prescribed for more serious conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and ulcers. Pantoprazole, on the other hand, is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that is only available by prescription and is used for similar conditions, including GERD and erosive esophagitis. Cimetidine can be taken multiple times a day, while pantoprazole is typically taken once daily. Cimetidine has more drug interactions and might not work as well for long-term use, whereas pantoprazole has fewer interactions but carries risks like bone fractures and low magnesium levels with long-term use. Both medications can cause headaches and diarrhea, but pantoprazole has additional side effects like nausea and belly pain.
