GERD
Medications
Related eMedTV
Health Channels

Axid

Axid is a medication that is used to treat certain conditions related to the esophagus, stomach, and intestines. The drug, which is available both by prescription and over the counter, is commonly used to treat duodenal or gastric ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), heartburn, and acid indigestion. By blocking a specific kind of histamine receptor, Axid reduces the amount of acid produced by the stomach. Side effects of the medicine can include headaches, a sore throat, and diarrhea.

 

What Is Axid?

Axid® (nizatidine) is a medication that is available both in prescription and over-the-counter forms. It is used to treat several conditions related to the esophagus, stomach, and intestines. Axid is part of a class of drugs known as H2 blockers.
 

Who Makes Axid?

Prescription Axid capsules are made by Reliant Pharmaceuticals, while prescription Axid® Oral Solution is made by Braintree Laboratories. Over-the-counter Axid® AR is made by Whitehall-Robins. Generic Axid is made by several manufacturers.
 

What Is Axid Used For?

Uses of prescription Axid include the treatment of:
 
 
  • Duodenal ulcers (ulcers in the very first part of the intestine after the stomach) -- Axid can be used to treat a duodenal ulcer and also to prevent ulcers from coming back.
     
  • Gastric ulcers (stomach ulcers) -- Axid is approved to treat benign (non-cancerous) gastric ulcers.
     
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) -- Axid helps treat GERD, helping to relieve heartburn and heal esophagitis (damage to the esophagus) due to GERD.
     
Over-the-counter Axid is approved for the treatment of the following conditions:
 
  • Heartburn
  • Acid indigestion
  • Sour stomach.
     
Over-the-counter Axid can be used to treat these problems once they have started. Also, the medicine can be used to prevent these problems if it is taken before eating or drinking foods that cause heartburn.
 
(Click Axid Uses for more information on what Axid is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
 
(Axid Continued: Page 2)
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;