GENERIC NAME: ranitidine

BRAND NAME: Zantac

DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Histamine is a natural chemical that stimulates the stomach cells to produce acid. Ranitidine belongs to a class of medications, called H2-blockers, that block the action of histamine on stomach cells, thus reducing stomach acid production.

PRESCRIPTION: yes

GENERIC AVAILABLE: yes

PREPARATIONS: Tablets (150 mg, 300 mg), Capsules (150 mg, 300 mg);
Syrup (15 mg/ml)

STORAGE: Should be stored at room temperature in a tightly closed container.

PRESCRIBED FOR: Ranitidine blocks the action of histamine on stomach cells, and reduces stomach acid production. Ranitidine 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 of time. In doses higher than that used in ulcer treatment, ranitidine has been helpful in treating heartburn and in healing ulcer and inflammation of the esophagus resulting from acid reflux (reflux esophagitis).

DOSING: May be taken with or without food. Since ranitidine is excreted by the kidney and metabolized by the liver, dosages of ranitidine need to be lowered in patients with significantly abnormal liver or kidney function.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Antacids may decrease the absorption of ranitidine. Safety of ranitidine in children has not been established. Ranitidine is not habit forming. Ranitidine can interfere with the metabolism of alcohol. Patients taking ranitidine who drink alcohol may have elevated blood alcohol levels.

SIDE EFFECTS: Minor side effects include constipation, diarrhea, fatigue, headache, insomnia, muscle pain, nausea, and vomiting. Major side effects are rare; they include: agitation, anemia, confusion, depression, easy bruising or bleeding, hallucinations, hair loss, irregular heartbeat, rash, visual changes, and yellowing of the skin or eyes.

Last Editorial Review: 4/4/1999

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