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Zegerid vs. Tagamet HB

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Zegerid (omeprazole/sodium bicarbonate) and cimetidine (Tagamet HB) are both used to treat conditions related to excess stomach acid. But they have several differences. Zegerid combines a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) and an antacid, which lowers stomach acid and protects the omeprazole from being broken down by stomach acid. Cimetidine, on the other hand, is a histamine H2 receptor antagonist (H2RA) that blocks acid production in the stomach. Zegerid is typically taken once daily, while cimetidine can be taken one to 4 times a day depending on the condition being treated. Zegerid and cimetidine are both available over-the-counter and by prescription. Zegerid can cause side effects like headache, stomach pain, and diarrhea, and long-term use can lead to bone fractures and low magnesium levels. Cimetidine has fewer side effects, such as headache and dizziness, but it interacts with many medications, which can be a concern. Both medications are available in generic forms.

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Zegerid

(omeprazole / sodium bicarbonate)

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Cimetidine

(Tagamet HB)

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Summary for Zegerid

Prescription or over-the-counter

Zegerid (omeprazole / sodium bicarbonate) is a combination medication used to treat conditions related to having too much stomach acid. This medication is typically taken by mouth once daily. But don't take it longer than what your provider recommends. Doing so raises your risk for side effects, such as bone fractures or low magnesium levels. Zegerid (omeprazole / sodium bicarbonate) is available as a powder that can be made into a liquid suspension for people who have trouble swallowing pills.

Indications for Zegerid

Prescription-strength Zegerid (omeprazole / sodium bicarbonate) capsules and suspension:

  • Stomach ulcer
  • Duodenal (first part of small intestine) ulcer
  • Heartburn and other symptoms related gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
  • Erosive esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus) due to GERD
  • Lower the risk of stomach bleeding in hospitalized people (suspension only)

OTC Zegerid (omeprazole / sodium bicarbonate) capsules:

  • Frequent heartburn

Konvomep (omeprazole / sodium bicarbonate) suspension:

  • Stomach ulcer
  • Lower the risk of stomach bleeding in hospitalized people

Pros and Cons for Zegerid

Pros

  • Available over the counter
  • Packet form is a good option if you have trouble swallowing pills
  • Typically taken once daily
  • Available as lower-cost generics
  • Longer-lasting relief than some other medications for heartburn

Cons

  • Takes 1 to 4 days to ease heartburn
  • Has sodium, so not a good option for people on sodium-restricted diets
  • Typically has to be taken on an empty stomach before meals for best results
  • Can interact with other medications
  • Long-term use can weaken your bones and cause low vitamin B12 and magnesium

Common Side Effects for Zegerid

  • Headache (3-7%)
  • Stomach pain (2-5%)
  • Diarrhea (3-4%)
  • Nausea (2-4%)
  • Gas (3%)
  • Vomiting (2-3%)

Please note: These side effects were reported in clinical trials by people who took omeprazole only. The side effects you experience from Zegerid (omeprazole / sodium bicarbonate) might differ.

Warnings for Zegerid

  • Follow up with provider needed
  • Kidney damage
  • Severe skin reactions
  • High sodium content
  • Acid and base out of balance (Milk-alkali syndrome)
  • Severe diarrhea
  • Bone fractures
  • Lupus
  • Interactions with other medications
  • Low vitamin B12 and magnesium levels
  • Small growths in the stomach

Summary for Tagamet HB

Prescription or over-the-counter

Cimetidine (Tagamet HB) is a histamine H2 receptor antagonist (H2RA) that lowers how much acid is made in the stomach. The over-the-counter (OTC) version relieves and prevents heartburn in people 12 years and older. Higher strengths of cimetidine are prescription only and are used to treat acid reflux, stomach and gut ulcers, and other stomach acid problems in people 16 years and older. Cimetidine (Tagamet HB) is taken by mouth one to four times a day, depending on what stomach problem you have. This medication has few side effects, which can include headache, dizziness, and diarrhea.

Indications for Tagamet HB

Pros and Cons for Tagamet HB

Pros

  • Available as an OTC product for heartburn only
  • Available as a tablets and an oral solution

Cons

Common Side Effects for Tagamet HB

  • Diarrhea
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Sleepiness

Warnings for Tagamet HB

  • Speak with provider if symptoms don't go away or come back
  • Confusion
  • Drug interactions

Prices with our coupons for Zegerid vs. Tagamet HB

Price Card Drug Icon
Omeprazole/Sodium Bicarbonate30 capsules / 40mg/1100mg
$32.16$1,464.39
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Price Card Drug Icon
Cimetidine60 tablets / 400mg
$32.35$100.38
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