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Ranitidine is an oral medication approved by the U.S FDA since 1984 for the treatment of conditions like:
- Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome- a condition in which the stomach produces too much acid
- Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD)
- Prevention of stomach and intestinal ulcers
Ranitidine also treat other condition in which the acid in the stomach flows back up to the esophagus causing heartburn. It also heals acid –related damage to the lining of the esophagus or erosive esophagitis. Ranitidine is an H-2 (histamine -2) blocker. It works by blocking the production of acid produce by the acid-producing cell in the stomach. Histamine is a naturally occurring chemical in the body. It stimulates the acid-producing cells to produce acid. Ranitidine inhibits the actions of histamine thus reducing the production of the acid that can cause damages to the esophagus, stomach and duodenum.
Ranitidine is available as a prescription drug and as a brand name drug. The generic drug cost a lot cheaper than the brand names. It may be used as a part of a combination therapy.
How to Use It
Take Ranitidine exactly as prescribed.
Heartburn and Indigestion
Take 1 tablet as needed with a glass of water to treat heartburn and indigestion. Take 1 tablet of this medication 30-60 minutes before a meal to prevent heartburn and indigestion.
Ulcers and GERD
The recommended dose is 2 tablets of 150mg or 1 tablet of 300mg. The maintenance dose is 150mg a day. Take the drug after the evening meal or at bedtime.
Erosive esophagitis
Take 1 tablet of 150mg 4 times in a day
Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
Use as much as 6 g of this medication in a day.
To help relieve the pain, your doctor may recommend an antacid. DO not use this medication more than what is prescribed. If you are self-medicating, do not take it longer than 2 weeks. Do not take more than 2 tablets within 24 hours unless directed by your physician. If your symptoms do not improve for 14 days in a row, stop taking this medication.
Possible Side Effects of Ranitidine
Common side effects may include:
- Headache
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
Serious side effects may include:
- Vomiting
- Allergic reaction
- Stomach pain
- Dark urine
- Yellowing of the skin
- Trouble breathing
- Dizziness
- Swelling of the tongue, face and throat
Seek medical attention as soon as possible in case of serious side effects.
Getting the Best Result from Ranitidine
- Ranitidine is not suitable for children 12 years of age and below unless directed by a physician.
- Pregnant can use this medication only if clearly needed.
- Patients with kidney and liver problem must use this medication with care.
- Ranitidine can cause severe allergic reaction. Do not take this drug if you are allergic to it.
