Axid® is the brand name of a medication used in the control of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and to help treat stomach ulcers. An oral medication in the form of a brown and white capsule, the medication will generally be given for several months to ensure the stomach condition or ulcers are healed. It is also known by the generic name of nizatidine.
Typically, the lining of the stomach, intestines, and esophagus protect the organs from the stomach acid instrumental in breaking down and digesting food. Too much acid in the system can throw off the delicate balance, and the acid can begin to eat through the protective lining. This can result in the formation of ulcers, increase the frequency of heartburn, and cause GERD, a condition where excess acid produced in the stomach flows up into the esophagus. Axid® prevents some of the production of this acid by blocking some of the chemicals responsible, called histamine-2.
When the lining of the digestive system is compromised, it can lead to damage more serious than heartburn. Repetitive and prolonged exposure to too much stomach acid can leave the system vulnerable to different types of cancers, as well as reoccurring ulcers. Administration of Axid® can also help in the treatment of cases where the lining of the stomach has been damaged to the point of bleeding into the digestive tract, as well as instances where the esophagus has become inflamed due to the erosion of tissue from the presence of acid usually kept in the stomach.
Dosing instructions can be specifically tailored based on the individual taking Axid® and the condition it is being prescribed for. It is usually taken once or twice a day, in varying strengths. In cases where it is used to treat an ulcer, it is usually prescribed for several months. This is longer than it usually takes for symptoms to disappear, but will help ensure that the ulcer has a chance to completely heal before the individual stops taking the medication.
Symptoms will generally disappear within two weeks of beginning treatment; if they do not, medical professionals will generally reconsider the dosing frequency, amount or the medication itself. Many individuals suffer from mild side effects when first taking Axid®, most commonly headaches. Other side effects, such as fatigue, dizziness and gastrointestinal distress such as constipation, stomach cramps and diarrhea can be experienced but typically fade as the body adjusts to the medication.
