Compare Aciphex vs. Tagamet

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

ADVERTISEMENT

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.

●●●●●
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.
ADVERTISEMENT
Used for
Dosage forms
  • Delayed release pill
  • Pill
  • Liquid
Price
Lowest price
$13.00
Find instant savings near you
Lowest price
$25.05
Find instant savings near you
Want to save even more money?
Sign up now for a 30-day trial and save up to 95% at CVS, Kroger, Albertsons, and other pharmacies.
Learn more
Reviews
Not enough review data.Leave a review
632 reviews so far
63%
saidit'sworth it
36%
saiditworked well
12%
saidit'sa big hassle

Have you used Tagamet (cimetidine)?

Leave a review
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)