Zantac

Generic name: Ranitidine

What is Zantac?

Zantac is a medicine that blocks certain receptors in your stomach known as H2 receptors, which leads to a decrease in the amount of acid secreted into your stomach.

Zantac is used to treat ulcers in the intestines and stomach. It is also used to prevent the occurrence of ulcers, to treat the erosion in the esophagus caused by acid, to reduce stomach acid in certain diseases where the stomach secretes too much acid, and to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

What is the most important information I should know about Zantac?

Even if Zantac relieves your stomach or ulcer-related symptoms, it is still important to finish Zantac therapy for the prescribed amount of time.

Use caution when taking Zantac if you have kidney or liver problems. If you have a blood disorder known as porphyria, do not take Zantac because it may increase your risk of experiencing an acute porphyric attack.

Who should not take Zantac?

You should not take Zantac if you are allergic or sensitive to it or any of its ingredients.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Zantac?

Mention all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Zantac. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have a history of stomach or intestinal ulcers, or any type of kidney or liver problems.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Active Duodenal Ulcer, Benign Gastric Ulcer, GERD, or Maintenance of Healing of Erosive Esophagitis

Adults: The usual dose is 150 milligrams (mg) taken twice a day.

Maintenance of Healing of Duodenal and Gastric Ulcers

Adults: The usual dose is 150 mg taken once daily at bedtime.

Children ages 1 month to 16 years old: The usual dose is 2-4 mg per 2.2 pounds of body weight, up to a maximum of 150 mg per day.

Pathological Hypersecretory Conditions (such as Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome)

Adults: The usual dose is 150 mg taken twice daily. Your doctor may increase your dose depending on your condition.

Adults: Erosive Esophagitis. The usual dose is 150 mg taken 4 times a day.

Treatment of Duodenal and Gastric Ulcers

Children ages 1 month to 16 years old: The usual dose is 2-4 mg per 2.2 pounds of body weight, up to a maximum of 300 mg per day.

Treatment of GERD and Erosive Esophagitis

Children ages 1 month to 16 years old: The usual dose is 5-10 mg per 2.2 pounds of body weight, given in 2 divided doses.

How should I take Zantac?

Zantac can be taken with or without food and should be taken at the same time every day. If you are an adult patient taking 150 mg twice a day, you may take 300 mg once a day at bedtime for easier dosing.

What should I avoid while taking Zantac?

You should not drink alcohol while taking Zantac.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Zantac?

If Zantac is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Zantac with warfarin or triazolam.

What are the possible side effects of Zantac?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: headache, irregular heartbeats, dizziness, liver problems, rash, changes in the counts of blood cells in your blood, constipation, nausea, vomiting, possible allergic reaction including anaphylaxis (trouble breathing, swelling of airway)

Can I receive Zantac if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Zantac during pregnancy are unknown. Zantac is excreted in breast milk. You should use caution if you are nursing and taking Zantac. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Zantac?

If you forget to take Zantac, take it as soon as you remember. If it is closer to your next scheduled dose, skip the dose you missed and take Zantac according to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double your doses.

How should I store Zantac?

Store at room temperature in a light-resistant container.