General information
Pronunciation
Type: OTC / Prescription
Uses
What should I know before taking this drug?
Precautions
Adverse reactions
Storage
Additional information if any
Ranitidine is pronounced as: ra NI ti deen
Ranitidine is a prescription drug available from your pharmacy store only with the prescription of a qualified medical practitioner.
Ranitidine is histamine receptor blocker
Ranitidine is used in the treatment of Ulcer
Gastro esphageal reflux disease
Zollinger Ellison syndrome
Erosive oesophagitis
Ranitidine works by reducing the amount of acid in the stomach.
Ranitidine is available as tablet, effervescent granules and syrup and is taken by mouth.
Take ranitidine exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand the instructions on the prescription ask your pharmacist to explain them to you.
To prevent heartburn it is usually taken 30 min before meals.
Ranitidine which is available as over the counter medication take once or twice a day to get relief from acidity and it should not be take more than more two weeks with out doctor prescription.
If you are using the antacids to get relief from acidity symptoms use ranitidine one hour before or after taking the antacids.
Older people: Ranitidine should be cautiously in older people as they are more sensitive to side effects of it.
Pregnant women: ranitidine belongs to FDA pregnancy category B. This means that ranitidine is safe during pregnancy and is not expected to cause any harm to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or are planning for conception.
Lactating women: It is not known whether ranitidine passes into breast milk or if it could harm the baby. Do not take ranitidine with out first talking to doctor if you are breast feeding baby.
Other: Does not drink alcohol or smoke tobacco as these are further worsen the condition.
The following are the side effects of ranitidine
Headache
Dizziness
Drowsiness
Diarrhea or constipation
How do I store ranitidine
Store ranitidine at room temp (15 – 30 degrees C). Avoid excessive heat, moisture or direct sunlight, never store in the bathroom.
Keep it out of reach of children. Make sure that any leftover portion is disposed off safely.
Avoid using or consuming substances that may irritate your stomach, such as:
- cigarettes;
- alcohol and alcohol-containing products;
- coffee, tea and chocolate;
- acidic or spicy food;
- fried foods
It is advisable not to drive the vehicle or operate the machinery until you know how you react to this drug.
It is imp to read manufacturing packaging instruction carefully if available and always do not hesitate to consult pharmacist or physician for any additional information.