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H2 Blockers

H2 blockers are medications that are used to treat gastrointestinal conditions such as duodenal ulcers, gastric ulcers, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Because they reduce the amount of acid in the stomach, they are also known as "acid reducers." H2 blockers are taken by mouth, usually one to four times per day, depending on the specific H2 blocker and the condition being treated, among other factors. A few of the most common side effects of H2 blockers include abdominal pain (or stomach pain), constipation, and dizziness.

 

What Is an H2 Blocker?

H2 blockers, also known as H2 receptor antagonists, are medications used to treat a variety of gastrointestinal conditions. They decrease the amount of acid produced by the stomach.
 

What Are H2 Blockers Used For?

H2 blockers are available both over the counter and with a prescription.
 Prescription H2 blockers are used for the following conditions:
 
  • Duodenal ulcers
  • Gastric ulcers (stomach ulcers)
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
  • Erosive esophagitis
  • Pathological hypersecretory conditions (which occur when too much stomach acid is produced), such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome or systemic mastocytosis.
     
Not all H2 blockers are approved for all of the above conditions. Over-the-counter H2 blockers are approved to treat less serious conditions, including:
 
  • Heartburn
  • Acid indigestion
  • Sour stomach.
     
(Click H2 Blocker Uses for more information on these uses, as well as possible off-label uses for H2 blocker medications.)
 
(H2 Blockers Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;