This first section of our medication database entry focuses on basic drug characteristics, uses and benefits, while part two covers side effects, interactions and additional information.
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Zantac Consumer Information
RANITIDINE
Generic Name: ranitidine (ra NIH te deen)
Brand Names: Zantac, Zantac 150, Zantac 300, Zantac 300 GELdose, Zantac 75, Zantac EFFERdose, Zantac GELdose
What is the most important information I should know about ranitidine?
- Do not stop taking ranitidine without first talking to your doctor. It may take up to 8 weeks for an ulcer to heal.
- Do not take antacids within 1 hour of taking ranitidine. Antacids may decrease the effectiveness of ranitidine.
What is ranitidine?
- Ranitidine is in a class of drugs called histamine receptor antagonists. Ranitidine works by decreasing the amount of acid the stomach produces.
- Ranitidine is used to treat and prevent ulcers in the stomach and intestines. Ranitidine is also used to treat conditions in which the stomach produces too much acid and conditions in which acid comes up into the esophagus and causes heartburn, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
- Ranitidine may also be used for conditions other than those listed in this medication guide.
Who should not take ranitidine?
- Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have
- kidney disease;
- liver disease; or
- porphyria.
- You may not be able to take ranitidine, or you may require a dosage adjustmentor special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
- The Zantac 150 mg EFFERdose Tablets and Zantac 150 mg EFFERdose Granules contain 16.84 mg of phenylalanine per 150 mg of ranitidine. Individuals with phenylketonuria may need to monitor their intake of this additive.
- Ranitidine is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is unlikely to harm an unborn baby. Do not take ranitidine without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.
- Ranitidine passes into breast milk. Do not take ranitidine without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take ranitidine?
- Take ranitidine exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
- Take each dose with a full glass of water.
- To ensure that you get the correct dose, measure the liquid form of ranitidine with a dose-measuring spoon or cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.
- Dissolve the Zantac 150 mg EFFERdose Tablets and Zantac 150 mg EFFERdose Granules in approximately 6 to 8 ounces of water before drinking.
- Do not stop taking ranitidine without first talking to your doctor. It may take up to 8 weeks for an ulcer to heal.
- Store ranitidine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
- Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
What happens if I overdose?
- Seek emergency medical attention.
- Symptoms of a ranitidine overdose include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, increased saliva production, difficulty breathing, and a fast heartbeat.
What should I avoid while taking ranitidine?
- There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activity while taking ranitidine, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Please see the end of this document for relevant limitations, full details of our medication information supplier, and revision date or version number.