Zantac

Zantac, with its active ingredient ranitidine, is a histamine-2 blocker that provides clinically-proven relief from gastric acid-related conditions. It works by selectively inhibiting the histamine receptors in the stomach lining, leading to a significant and rapid reduction in acid production. This mechanism offers a reliable and well-tolerated solution for individuals suffering from frequent heartburn, acid indigestion, and sour stomach, allowing for the comfortable management of symptoms and improved daily functioning. Trusted by healthcare professionals for decades, Zantac represents a cornerstone in over-the-counter gastrointestinal therapy.

Features

• Contains ranitidine hydrochloride as the active pharmaceutical ingredient.
• Available in multiple formulations, including tablets (75 mg and 150 mg) and syrup.
• Functions as a histamine H2-receptor antagonist.
• Provides fast-acting relief, often within 30 to 60 minutes of ingestion.
• Offers up to 12 hours of continuous acid suppression with a single dose.
• Does not contain aspirin or NSAIDs.
• Available over-the-counter without a prescription for lower-dose formulations.

Benefits

• Rapid Symptom Relief: Effectively alleviates the burning discomfort of heartburn and the pain of acid indigestion shortly after consumption.
• Prolonged Protection: A single dose provides all-day or all-night control of acid production, preventing symptom recurrence and enabling uninterrupted sleep and daily activities.
• Healing Support: By reducing the volume and acidity of gastric secretions, it creates a less corrosive environment, aiding in the healing of irritated esophageal and stomach tissues.
• Improved Quality of Life: Allows for greater dietary freedom and reduces the anxiety associated with anticipating painful acid reflux episodes after meals or when lying down.
• Proven Safety Profile: Has a long history of safe and effective use under medical supervision, with a well-documented pharmacological profile.

Common use

Zantac (ranitidine) is primarily indicated for the relief and prevention of heartburn, acid indigestion, and sour stomach associated with acid reflux. It is commonly used to manage symptoms triggered by the consumption of certain foods and beverages. It is also used for the treatment and maintenance of healing in conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gastric and duodenal ulcers, and conditions where gastric acid control is medically necessary, such as pathological hypersecretory conditions (e.g., Zollinger-Ellison syndrome). It is suitable for occasional, on-demand use or for longer-term management as directed by a physician.

Dosage and direction

• For OTC Heartburn Relief (75 mg tablets): Adults and children 12 years and older: Swallow 1 tablet with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew. This dose may be repeated every 12 hours as needed. Do not take more than 2 tablets in 24 hours.
• For OTC Acid Reduction (150 mg tablets): Adults and children 12 years and older: Swallow 1 tablet with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew. This dose may be taken once or twice daily. For prevention of heartburn, take 30 to 60 minutes before eating food or drinking beverages that cause heartburn. Do not take more than 2 tablets in 24 hours.
• For Prescription Use: Dosage is determined by a healthcare provider based on the specific condition being treated (e.g., active ulcer, GERD, hypersecretory conditions). Doses can range from 150 mg once daily to 150 mg or 300 mg twice daily, or even higher for hypersecretory conditions. Always follow the specific dosing instructions provided by your doctor.
• General Direction: Take with or without food. If symptoms persist after 14 days of continuous use, consult a doctor.

Precautions

• Consult a doctor or pharmacist before use if you have a history of kidney disease, liver disease, or phenylketonuria (as some formulations may contain phenylalanine).
• Do not use if you have trouble or pain swallowing food, are vomiting blood, or have bloody or black stools. These may be signs of a serious condition requiring immediate medical attention.
• Heartburn can mimic the early symptoms of a heart attack. Seek immediate medical help if you have chest pain, lightheadedness, sweating, or pain radiating to the jaw, neck, or arm.
• Long-term use (beyond the recommended OTC period) should only be undertaken under medical supervision.
• As with any medication, inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding before taking this medication.

Contraindications

Zantac is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to ranitidine or any other component of the formulation. Its use is also contraindicated in patients with a history of acute porphyria, as ranitidine may precipitate an attack.

Possible side effect

While generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience side effects.

• Common: Headache, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and stomach discomfort.
• Less Common: Drowsiness, fatigue, insomnia, dizziness, muscle pain, rash.
• Rare but Serious: Mental confusion (particularly in the elderly or those with renal impairment), depression, hallucinations, arrhythmias (e.g., bradycardia, tachycardia), hepatitis, jaundice, pancytopenia, agranulocytosis, and hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., bronchospasm, fever, rash, eosinophilia). Immediate medical attention is required for any signs of a serious allergic reaction, including difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Drug interaction

Ranitidine can alter the absorption or metabolism of other drugs. Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, especially:

• pH-Dependent Drugs: Ranitidine increases gastric pH, which can decrease the absorption of drugs that require an acidic environment (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, atazanavir, iron salts) and increase the absorption of others (e.g., sucralfate).
• Warfarin: There is a potential for increased anticoagulant effect; prothrombin time should be monitored.
• Procainamide: Ranitidine may decrease the renal clearance of procainamide, increasing its blood levels and risk of toxicity.
• Midazolam/Triazolam: Ranitidine may slightly increase the bioavailability of these benzodiazepines.
• Glipizide: Ranitidine has been reported to increase the effects of glipizide, potentially leading to hypoglycemia.

Missed dose

If you are on a scheduled dosing regimen and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Overdose

In the event of a suspected overdose, seek emergency medical attention or contact a Poison Control Center immediately. Overdose symptoms may include vomiting, restlessness, hypotension (low blood pressure), bradycardia (slow heart rate), and signs of renal impairment. General supportive measures are employed, including gastric lavage or activated charcoal if ingestion was recent. Hemodialysis may be effective in removing ranitidine from the plasma.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Keep the bottle tightly closed and protect from light and moisture. Keep all medications out of the reach of children and pets. Do not store in the bathroom. Dispose of any unused or expired medication properly; do not flush down the toilet. Consult your pharmacist for local take-back programs.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before starting any new treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. The information provided is based on the product’s general characteristics and may not be applicable to your specific situation.

Reviews

• “As a gastroenterologist, I have prescribed ranitidine for years. It’s a predictable and effective first-line agent for managing GERD and ulcer symptoms in a significant portion of my patient population. Its OTC availability provides safe and convenient access for appropriate self-care.” – Dr. A. Reynolds, MD
• “I’ve suffered from nighttime heartburn for a decade. Taking Zantac 150 before dinner completely eliminates my symptoms and allows me to sleep through the night. It’s been a life-changer for my quality of sleep and next-day energy.” – Mark T.
• “After my doctor recommended it for occasional acid indigestion, I found it works faster and lasts longer than antacids for me. I keep a bottle in my desk at work for peace of mind after lunch.” – Sarah L.
• “I appreciate that it doesn’t cause the ‘rebound acid’ effect I experienced with some other medications. It provides consistent relief without any noticeable side effects for my needs.” – James K.