Uses of Ranitidine



Ranitidine is a drug that belongs to a group of medicines known as H2-receptor antagonists.

Ranitidine is the generic name. Its brand names include:

  • Zantac
  • Tritec
  • Ranitic
  • Ranitil
  • Histac
  • Rantec
  • Zaedoc

    Ranitidine is used to treat:

  • Peptic ulcers
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
  • Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.
  • Irritation and ulceration of the stomach caused by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

    Histamine is a natural chemical that stimulates the stomach cells to produce acid. Ranitidine acts by blocking the action of histamine on stomach cells, thus reducing stomach acid production.

    It is useful in promoting healing of stomach and duodenal ulcers and in reducing ulcer pain.

    Ranitidine has been effective in preventing ulcer recurrence when given in low doses for prolonged periods.

    It comes in the form of a tablet, an effervescent tablet, effervescent granules, and syrup; all are taken orally.

    It is usually taken once a day at bedtime or two to four times a day. Over-the-counter ranitidine comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once or twice a day.

    To prevent symptoms, it is taken 30-60 minutes before eating or drinking foods that cause heartburn. Since it is excreted by the kidney and metabolised by the liver, dosages of ranitidine need to be lowered in patients with abnormal liver or kidney function.

    Ranitidine Side Effects

    Minor side effects include:

  • Constipation
  • Diarrhoea
  • Upset stomach
  • Fatigue
  • Headaches
  • Insomnia
  • Muscle pain
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting

    Major side effects are rare but may include:

  • Agitation
  • Anaemia
  • Confusion
  • Depression
  • Easy bruising or bleeding
  • Hallucinations
  • Hair loss
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Rash
  • Visual changes
  • Yellowing of the skin and eyes

  • Acid Reflux

  • Duodenal Ulcers

  • Stomach Ulcers

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