Zantac (Ranitidine)

What is Zantac?

Zantac serves an effective treatment that is classified as a histamine-2 blocker. The active ingredient of the treatment is Ranitidine, and it features a potential influence of the body, decreasing the amount of acid produced in the stomach. Thus, Zantac is commonly used as an oral medication to prevent or treat ulcers in the intestines or stomach. Additionally, the medication can improve the symptoms of Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, gastroesophageal reflux disease and related conditions that presuppose excess amount of acid in the intestines or stomach. Moreover, the treatment can also be administered in other instances.


Recommendations for Use

Following the safety recommendations is the key to a successful treatment course. Do not administer the medication in larger or smaller amounts, as it can lead either to a decreased effect or overdose. The treatment should be used according to all the recommendations of your healthcare specialist. Never break, chew or crush the tablet. Zantac is available in the form of granules, liquid medication, etc. Dissolve the drug in water and drink it.

Keep using the medication for the whole length of the prescribed therapy, as it can take more than 8 weeks to get the desired results. Call your doctor in case 5-week treatment shows no improvements and beneficial actions. Zantac therapy may change the results of certain medical tests. Provide the physician with detailed information about your treatment course before you take any tests.

Precautions and Contraindications

Consult your doctor before Zantac therapy, as it is important to follow safety directions and avoid possible interactions. The medication should not be administered by patients, who are allergic to Ranitidine or other components of the drug. Despite Zantac is not expected to harm unborn and nursing children, it is commonly contraindicated for pregnant and breastfeeding women. Additionally, it is inevitable to inform a healthcare provider about other health issues and complications you have in order to avoid dangerous consequences from their interactions with Zantac. Pay ultimate attention to kidney diseases, Porphyria, liver problems and other conditions.

Zantac intake can increase the risk of pneumonia occurrence. Seek immediate medical assistance if you have noticed any signs of abnormality, especially angina, difficulty breathing, fever, coughing, etc.

Drug Interactions

Additionally, your healthcare provider should be aware of all the prescription and non-prescription drugs you are taking to eliminate the risk of aggravating side effects caused by their combinations. Since Zantac may interact with numerous other treatments, you should avoid taking it together with Nexium, Lipitor, Lasix, Ibuprofen, Prednisone, Albuterol, Aspirin, Metformin, Tylenol, Singulair and other drugs.

Side Effects

Zantac is not likely to cause dangerous side effects. Nevertheless, its overuse or misuse can trigger severe complications and unexpected body reactions. Call your healthcare specialist if common side effects, such as dizziness, drowsiness, headache, nausea, vomiting, stomach discomfort, impotence, insomnia and others, became bothersome and activate more severe issues. Seek immediate medical assistance if there are any symptoms of allergic reactions or similar problems, including severe angina, breathing disorders, vision impairments, uneven heart rate, abnormal weakness, etc.