H2 blockers
H2 Blockers
H2 blockers, also known as H2 receptor antagonists, are a class of medications that reduce the production of stomach acid, and are commonly used to treat conditions such as peptic ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Pronunciation
H2 blockers: /eɪtʃ tuː blɒkərz/
Etymology
The term "H2 blockers" comes from the type of receptor they act on - the histamine type 2 receptor. Histamine is a chemical that promotes acid production in the stomach, and by blocking these receptors, H2 blockers reduce the amount of acid produced.
Related Terms
- Histamine: A chemical in the body that, among other things, stimulates acid production in the stomach.
- H2 receptor: A type of receptor in the stomach that, when activated by histamine, promotes acid production.
- Peptic ulcer: A sore that develops on the lining of the stomach, upper small intestine or esophagus.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): A chronic condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus).
Types of H2 Blockers
There are several types of H2 blockers, including:
- Cimetidine (Tagamet)
- Ranitidine (Zantac)
- Famotidine (Pepcid)
- Nizatidine (Axid)
Each of these medications works in a similar way, but they have different potencies and durations of action.
Side Effects
Like all medications, H2 blockers can have side effects. These can include headaches, dizziness, diarrhea, constipation, and fatigue. In rare cases, they can cause more serious side effects like confusion, irregular heartbeat, or a severe skin reaction.
Precautions
Before starting an H2 blocker, it's important to discuss any other medications you're taking with your doctor, as H2 blockers can interact with certain other drugs. You should also let your doctor know if you have any kidney or liver problems, as these conditions can affect how your body processes H2 blockers.
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