Ranitidine
|
About ranitidine
| Type of medicine | H2-receptor antagonist |
| Used for | Conditions caused by too much acid being produced in the stomach. To treat irritation and ulceration of the stomach caused by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs |
| Also called | Histac®; Ranitil®; Zantac® |
| Available as | Tablets, effervescent tablets, oral liquid and injection |
Ranitidine is used to treat certain conditions caused by too much acid being produced in the stomach, such as stomach ulcers (gastric ulcers), ulcers of the upper part of the intestine (duodenal ulcers), reflux oesophagitis (acid reflux or heartburn) and Zollinger-Ellison disease.
Ranitidine can also be used to treat irritation and ulceration of the stomach caused by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Acid is produced naturally in the stomach to help digest food. Excessive amounts of acid can irritate the stomach lining, causing inflammation, ulcers and other conditions.
Ranitidine works by reducing the amount of acid produced in the stomach, relieving pain and helping to repair the damage.
Before taking ranitidine
Before taking ranitidine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:
- If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
- If you suffer from kidney problems.
- If you suffer from porphyria (a blood disorder).
- If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
- If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
How to take ranitidine
- Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
- Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
- If you have been prescribed ranitidine effervescent tablets, dissolve them in water to take them.
- Try not to miss any doses. If you forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up.
Getting the most from your treatment
- Do not smoke. Smoking increases the amount of acid produced by the stomach and will aggravate your condition.
- Try to avoid foods that may upset your stomach such as, alcohol, citrus fruits and juices, drinks containing caffeine, tomatoes and spicy food.
Can ranitidine cause problems?
Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.
| Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine | What can I do if I experience this |
| Diarrhoea | Drink plenty of water to replace any lost fluids |
| Headache | Ask your pharmacist to recommend a suitable pain killer |
| Stomach upset, dizziness, skin rash, and tiredness | Speak with your doctor if troublesome |
If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
How to store ranitidine
- Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
Important information about all medicines
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References
- British National Formulary; 54th Edition (September 2007) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF).
The authors and editors of this article are employed to create accurate and up to date content reflecting reliable research evidence, guidance and best clinical practice. They are free from any commercial conflicts of interest.
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