Zantac (ranitidine hydrochloride) is a histamine-2 (H2) blocker medication that has been a trusted, clinically-proven solution for reducing stomach acid production for decades. It is indicated for the short-term treatment of active duodenal ulcers, maintenance therapy for healed duodenal ulcers, treatment of active benign gastric ulcers, pathological hypersecretory conditions, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). By effectively decreasing the amount of acid your stomach produces, Zantac provides rapid and sustained relief from the painful symptoms associated with excess acid, allowing the esophagus and stomach lining to heal. Its well-documented efficacy and safety profile make it a cornerstone in the management of acid-related disorders.

Features

• Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient: Ranitidine hydrochloride.
• Mechanism of Action: Functions as a histamine H2-receptor antagonist.
• Formulations: Available in tablet, effervescent tablet, and syrup formulations.
• Onset of Action: Symptomatic relief often begins within 30 to 60 minutes of administration.
• Duration of Effect: Provides acid suppression for up to 12 hours per dose.
• Bioavailability: Demonstrates approximately 50% oral bioavailability, which can be reduced by concomitant food or antacid intake.

Benefits

• Rapid Symptom Relief: Effectively alleviates the burning sensation of heartburn and pain associated with acid reflux.
• Promotes Healing: By reducing gastric acid volume and concentration, it creates an optimal environment for the healing of esophageal erosion and ulcerations.
• Prevents Nighttime Symptoms: A dose at bedtime can suppress nocturnal acid breakthrough, providing uninterrupted sleep for individuals with GERD.
• Non-Systemic Relief: Unlike antacids that neutralize existing acid, it works at the receptor level to prevent excessive acid production.
• Proven Long-Term Record: Backed by extensive clinical research and decades of real-world use, establishing a strong efficacy and safety profile.

Common use

Zantac is commonly prescribed and used for a range of acid-related gastrointestinal conditions. Its primary uses include the treatment and prevention of duodenal ulcers and the management of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which encompasses symptoms like heartburn and regurgitation. It is also indicated for healing and maintenance therapy of gastric ulcers and for managing conditions involving pathological hypersecretion of stomach acid, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Many patients use it for immediate relief of occasional heartburn, acid indigestion, and sour stomach.

Dosage and direction

Dosage is highly individualized based on the condition being treated, renal function, and patient response. It is crucial to follow a healthcare provider’s specific prescription.

• Active Duodenal Ulcer: 150 mg twice daily or 300 mg once at bedtime. Maintenance therapy is typically 150 mg at bedtime.
• GERD: 150 mg twice daily.
• Pathological Hypersecretory Conditions: Initial dose is 150 mg twice daily; dosage may be increased as needed and tolerated.
• Administration: Tablets can be taken with or without food. If taking one daily dose, it is typically taken at bedtime. The effervescent tablet must be completely dissolved in at least ½ glass of water before drinking.

Always use the smallest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary to treat your condition.

Precautions

Before taking Zantac, discuss your full medical history with your doctor. Special caution is advised for patients with:

• Phenylketonuria (PKU), as some effervescent formulations contain aspartame.
• Liver disease or impaired hepatic function, as metabolism may be affected.
• Kidney disease or impaired renal function, as dosage adjustments are mandatory to prevent accumulation of the drug.
• Porphyria (a rare blood disorder), as ranitidine may precipitate an attack.
• Weakened immune system, as a theoretical risk of increased infection from reduced gastric acidity exists. Patients should also be aware that Zantac may cause false positives on tests for protein in urine and should inform laboratory personnel of its use.

Contraindications

Zantac is contraindicated in patients with:

• A known history of hypersensitivity to ranitidine or any component of its formulation.
• A previous demonstration of cross-sensitivity to other H2-receptor antagonists.
• Acute porphyria.

Possible side effect

While generally well-tolerated, some patients may experience side effects. Common side effects are often mild and transient, including headache, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and stomach discomfort. Less frequently, patients may experience:

• Drowsiness, fatigue, or dizziness
• Insomnia
• Rash
• Changes in liver enzyme tests Serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention. These include signs of liver problems (persistent nausea, dark urine, jaundice), mental/mood changes (agitation, confusion, depression, hallucinations), easy bruising/bleeding, or signs of a new infection.

Drug interaction

Zantac can alter the absorption and metabolism of other drugs by increasing stomach pH and inhibiting certain liver enzymes (specifically CYP450). It is essential to inform your doctor of all medications you are taking. Significant interactions include:

• pH-Dependent Drugs: May decrease the absorption of drugs that require an acidic gastric environment for optimal bioavailability, such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, and atazanavir.
• Warfarin: Ranitidine may potentially alter prothrombin time; close monitoring of INR is recommended.
• Procainamide: Ranitidine may reduce the renal clearance of procainamide, increasing its blood levels and risk of toxicity.
• Midazolam: Ranitidine may increase the serum concentration of midazolam.
• Glipizide: Ranitidine has been shown to increase the bioavailability of glipizide.

Missed dose

If you miss a dose of Zantac, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one, as this increases the risk of side effects.

Overdose

Symptoms of a Zantac overdose may be an exaggeration of its known pharmacological effects and side effects. Reported symptoms include vomiting, restlessness, hypotension (low blood pressure), bradycardia (slow heart rate), and arrhythmias. In cases of severe overdose, seizures have been reported. Gastric lavage and supportive measures are the mainstays of treatment. There is no specific antidote. In case of suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention or contact a Poison Control Center.

Storage

Store Zantac at room temperature (between 68°F and 77°F or 20°C and 25°C) away from light, moisture, and heat. Do not store it in a bathroom. Keep the bottle tightly closed. Do not remove the desiccant (drying agent) canister from the bottle. Keep all medications out of the reach of children and pets. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed.

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 not exhaustive and may not cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, interactions, or adverse effects.

Reviews

• “As a long-time GERD sufferer, Zantac has been a reliable part of my management plan for years. It provides predictable relief that allows me to sleep through the night without acid breakthrough.” – Michael T., 54
• “My gastroenterologist prescribed this after a diagnosis of a duodenal ulcer. Combined with lifestyle changes, it facilitated complete healing within the expected timeframe. I experienced no side effects.” – Sarah L., 41
• “I find it more effective for my occasional severe heartburn than standard antacids. It stops the problem before it really starts. I always keep a supply on hand.” – David K., 38
• “I was switched to an alternative therapy due to the 2020 recalls, but I must say that during the decades I used Zantac, it was consistently effective and I never had an issue.” – Patricia W., 67