What is Zantac (Ranitidine Hydrochloride) used for?

Zantac (Ranitidine Hydrochloride) is a histamine-2 blocker that is prescribed to treat adults suffering from peptic ulcers, gastro-esophageal reflux disease, or chronic indigestion. It may also be used as a short term treatment for children aged three to eighteen suffering from these conditions. The medication operates by reducing the amount of acid produced by the stomach to prevent these conditions from appearing. Your physician may also prescribe it to treat other conditions that are not listed here.

How should I use Zantac (Ranitidine Hydrochloride)?

Strictly follow your physician's instructions while using Zantac (Ranitidine Hydrochloride) to get the most effective results. The typical dosage is one tablet taken once or twice each day, but your individual regiment will be determined by your age, weight, the condition being treated, your current health, and the severity of your symptoms. Swallow the tablets whole and unaltered along with a large glass of water. They may be taken on an empty stomach, but a meal or snack is recommended before use if you experience nausea. Never alter the tablets before use by crushing or splitting them as this may destroy or change the effects of their contents. Ask your physician any questions you have about the medicine to make sure you are using it correctly.

What are the side effects of Zantac (Ranitidine Hydrochloride)?

Side effects associated with the use of Zantac (Ranitidine Hydrochloride) include:

• Headaches
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Upset stomach, diarrhea, or constipation
• Insomnia
• Swelling or tenderness of the breast area
• Decreased sex drive, impotence, or trouble having an orgasm

More serious side effects that may occur during treatment are easier bruising, sensitive skin, vision problems, chest pain, trouble breathing, severe skin rash, darkened urine, discolored stools, or jaundice. Immediately inform your physician about any symptoms you encounter that are intense or worrying to you to make sure the correct response is taken. This may include lowering your dosage, reducing the frequency of administration, or emergency medical attention in more serious cases.

Please Note

Zantac (Ranitidine Hydrochloride) should not be used to treat patients with porphyrias. Also disclose if you are elderly, allergic to aspartame, sensitive to alcohol, or if you have decreased kidney function. These conditions may require reduced dosages or other changes to your regiment to prevent further problems from occurring.

Strictly follow all instructions provided to you by your physician or pharmacist while using Zantac (Ranitidine Hydrochloride). Optimum and safe dosage can differ based on the patient and the condition being treated.

As this medication may be unsafe for certain patients, it is essential you always inform your physician if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as well as if you have any allergies, other illnesses, or ongoing health conditions, and if you are taking any other form of medication, supplements, or herbal products.

Immediately seek emergency medical care if you have an allergic or hypersensitive reaction. Common signs of a reaction include hives, swelling, skin rashes, chest pains, as well as trouble breathing or swallowing.