Cimetidine and Gynecomastia

[upstate321]

Hello,

I have been taking Cimetidine for about 10 years.  Over the past few years I have been noticing that my breasts have enlarged somewhat.  It is nothing major, but enough to start to be self conscience.  Is it too late to switch to another medication at this point or if I do what are the chances I will see some reversal?  If I decide to switch what medications should I talk to my doctor about?

Thanks

[Litlriki]

Cimetidine may be the source of your concern, but it could be related to being 10 years older as well.  Other comparable medications that aren't associated with gynecomastia include Pepcid and Zantac.  Other medications to control stomach acid include Prilosec.  Any of these should help the problem if it's related to stomach acid.

Good luck,

Rick Silverman

[DrBermant]

Hello,

I have been taking Cimetidine for about 10 years.  Over the past few years I have been noticing that my breasts have enlarged somewhat.  It is nothing major, but enough to start to be self conscience.  Is it too late to switch to another medication at this point or if I do what are the chances I will see some reversal?  If I decide to switch what medications should I talk to my doctor about?

Thanks

I have seen quite a few patients with breast growth after use of Cimetidine. There are many Drugs and Medications that can Cause Gynecomastia. While a gland is under hormonal stimulation it tends to grow and swell. Stop the stimulation and swelling can reverse. However, residual underlying growth can remain a deforming factor that just will not go away.

Hope this helps,

Michael Bermant, MD
Learn More About Gynecomastia and Male Breast Reduction