Cimetidine psychotoxicity without significant medical illness: case report

Abstract

Previous reports have described cimetidine psychotoxicity as predominantly an organic brain syndrome in older, severely ill patients. This paper reports a cimetidine-induced mental state change in a middle-aged man with a relatively uncomplicated medical history. Since toxic effects of cimetidine are likely to occur within 1 to 2 days of starting the medication, close observation during this time period, and prompt recognition of psychotoxicity, can prevent disruptive side effects.