Compare Dexilant vs. Tagamet

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

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Dexilant (dexlansoprazole)

Prescription only

Tagamet (cimetidine)

Prescription or OTC
Treats heartburn.

Dexilant (dexlansoprazole) is an effective medicine to treat heartburn, but can be expensive since it is only available as a brand.

●●●●●
4.7/ 5 average rating with 73 reviewsforDexilant
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
  • Relieves heartburn symptoms better than other stomach medicines (like Pepcid, Tagamet, and Zantac).
  • Lasts longer than other alternative stomach medicines.
  • Convenient once daily dosing.
  • Treats GERD in children 12 to 17 years of age.
  • Can be swallowed whole, or contents of the pill can be emptied into applesauce for easy swallowing.
  • 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
  • Similar to other proton pump inhibitors, Dexilant (dexlansoprazole) can weaken bones when taken for a long period of time.
  • Can take a few days before you start to feel the full effects.
  • Dexilant (dexlansoprazole) can affect how other medicines, vitamins, and minerals get absorbed in your body.
  • There's no generic version available, so it can be expensive.
  • 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
  • Dissolving tablet
  • Pill
  • Liquid
Price
Lowest price
$194.40
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Lowest price
$32.98
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Reviews
73 reviews so far
93%
saidit'sworth it
92%
saiditworked well
14%
saidit'sa big hassle

Have you used Dexilant (dexlansoprazole)?

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
6possible side effects
  • Diarrhea
    5%
  • Abdominal pain
    4%
  • Nausea
    3%
  • Upper airway infection
    3%
  • Gas
    3%
  • Vomiting
    2%
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
  • Possible stomach cancer
  • Kidney inflammation
  • Severe diarrhea
    • Being hospitalized
    • Antibiotic use
  • Bone fractures
    • High dose Dexilant (dexlansoprazole)
    • Long-term treatment with Dexilant (dexlansoprazole) (more than 1 year)
    • Low bone mineral density
    • Aged 50 years or older
    • Alcohol
    • Smoking
    • Taking steroids or seizure medicines
  • Low magnesium and vitamin B12 levels
    • Taking digoxin or diuretics
  • 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 Dexilant (dexlansoprazole)
Learn more about Tagamet (cimetidine)