Compare Aciphex vs. Tagamet

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

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Aciphex (rabeprazole)

Prescription only

Tagamet (cimetidine)

Prescription or OTC
Treats heartburn and ulcers.

Aciphex (rabeprazole) is good for treating heartburn and ulcers, but should not be used long-term.

Treats heartburn.

Tagamet (cimetidine) works well for heartburn, but may have more side effects than other medicines like it.

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3.4/ 5 average rating with 632 reviewsforTagamet
Upsides
  • Aciphex (rabeprazole) works better than over-the-counter medications that have not relieved your acid reflux.
  • The delayed-release pill provides relief over 24 hours.
  • Aciphex (rabeprazole) can be taken with or without food.
  • The capsule can be safely used by children as young as 1 year old.
  • Lasts longer than other medicines like it so you may not need to take it as frequently.
  • Affordable as an over-the-counter or generic medicine.
Downsides
  • Using Aciphex (rabeprazole) for a long time can can weaken your bones or increase your risk for infectious diarrhea.
  • Lowers magnesium and vitamin B12 in your body so you may need to take supplements.
  • Aciphex (rabeprazole) interferes with how many medications work.
  • Does not work as fast as antacids like Maalox, Tums, or Rolaids.
  • May not work as well if you have an inflammed esophagus. Your doctor will assess which medicine is best for you.
  • May not be the best option if you are elderly or have kidney or liver problems.
  • Can interfere with how other medicines work.
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Used for
Dosage forms
  • Delayed release pill
  • Pill
  • Liquid
Price
Lowest price
$9.71
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Lowest price
$20.52
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Reviews
Not enough review data.Leave a review
632 reviews so far
63%
saidit'sworth it
36%
saiditworked well
12%
saidit'sa big hassle

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Side effects
5possible side effects
  • Headache
    10%
  • Diarrhea
    5%
  • Nausea
    5%
  • Vomiting
    4%
  • Abdominal pain
    4%
See more detailed side effects
The Tagamet (cimetidine) FDA package insert doesn’t have numbers about how common side effects are.
Risks and risk factors
  • Stomach cancer
  • Kidney inflammation
  • Severe diarrhea
    • Being hospitalized
    • Antibiotic use
  • Bone fractures
    • High dose Aciphex (rabeprazole)
    • Taking Aciphex (rabeprazole) for longer than one year
    • Low bone mineral density
    • Age 50 years or older
    • Alcohol
    • Smoking
    • Taking steroids or anti-seizure medicines
  • Low levels of magnesium and vitamin B12
  • Lupus
See more detailed risks and warnings
  • Confusion
    • Elderly
    • Kidney problems
    • Liver problems
    • Dementia
  • Drug interactions
  • Chronic lung problems
    • Asthma
    • COPD
    • Lung problems
  • Clostridium difficile associated diarrhea
    • Taking antibiotics
  • Englarged breasts in men (gynecomastia)
See more detailed risks and warnings
Learn more about Aciphex (rabeprazole)
Learn more about Tagamet (cimetidine)