A Comprehensive Guide to Ranitidine: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Interactions, and More

Names of Medication

US Brand Names: Zantac (Ranitidine)

Pharmacologic Category

Ranitidine belongs to a class of drugs known as H2 blockers. Other medications in this class include:
Famotidine (Pepcid)
Cimetidine (Tagamet)
Nizatidine (Axid)

Dosing

Ranitidine is used to treat a variety of conditions related to excess stomach acid. Below are the common conditions treated with Ranitidine and the typical dosing for each. Always consult with your doctor for your individual dosing needs.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): 150 mg twice daily, or 300 mg once daily after the evening meal or at bedtime. Treatment duration is typically 8 weeks.
Peptic Ulcer Disease: 150 mg twice daily, or 300 mg once daily after the evening meal or at bedtime. Treatment duration is typically 6-8 weeks.
Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome: The dose varies greatly depending on the individual, but typically starts at 150 mg three times a day.
Erosive Esophagitis: 150 mg four times daily.
Nonerosive Reflux Disease: 75 mg to 150 mg twice daily.
Never adjust your dose of medication without speaking with your doctor first.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Ranitidine comes in the following dosage forms and strengths:
Tablets: 75 mg, 150 mg, and 300 mg
Syrup: 15 mg/mL
Injectable: 25 mg/mL

Administration Instructions

Ranitidine can be taken with or without food. Tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. If using the syrup, measure the dose carefully with a special measuring spoon or device.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

Ranitidine is generally well-tolerated, but like all medications, it can have side effects. Always inform your doctor if you experience any adverse reactions while taking this medication.
Headache (common): This is often mild and temporary, subsiding as your body adjusts to the medication.
Constipation (less common): Increasing fiber and water intake often helps alleviate this side effect.
Nausea and vomiting (less common): This may be minimized by taking Ranitidine with food.
Fatigue (rare): This typically occurs at higher doses and may lessen over time as your body adjusts to the medication.
Changes in liver function tests (rare): Your doctor may monitor your liver function while you’re taking Ranitidine.

Contraindications to Taking Ranitidine

A contraindication is a specific situation in which a drug, procedure, or surgery should not be used because it may be harmful to the person. Here are some contraindications for Ranitidine:
Allergy to Ranitidine: If you’ve ever had an allergic reaction to Ranitidine or any of its ingredients, you should not take this medication.
Acute Porphyria: Ranitidine may trigger a porphyria attack in people with this rare metabolic disorder. 3. Severe Kidney Disease: Ranitidine is removed from the body by the kidneys, so if your kidneys aren’t working well, the drug may build up and cause side effects.

Drug to Drug Interactions

Certain medications may interact with Ranitidine, affecting how it works or increasing the risk of side effects. Some of these include:
Warfarin (Coumadin): Ranitidine may increase the effect of warfarin, leading to an increased risk of bleeding.
Procainamide (Pronestyl, Procanbid): Ranitidine can increase the level of procainamide in your body, which could lead to side effects.
Theophylline (Theo-Dur, Slo-Bid): Ranitidine can decrease how quickly your body removes theophylline, increasing your risk of side effects.

Ranitidine in Pregnancy

Ranitidine is considered safe to use during pregnancy when the benefits outweigh the risks. Always consult with your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while taking this medication.

Ranitidine while Breastfeeding

Ranitidine passes into breast milk but is unlikely to harm a nursing infant. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before breastfeeding while on this medication.

Estimated Cost of Medication

As of May 2023, the estimated cost of Ranitidine without insurance, using a GoodRx coupon, is approximately $15 to $25 for a 30-day supply of 150 mg tablets. Prices may vary depending on the pharmacy and location and are subject to change based on negotiated agreements between pharmacies and pharmaceutical companies.
Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.

Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.