Ranitidine

Uses of Ranitidine

Ranitidine is commonly used in the treatment of acidity, gastroesophageal reflux disease acid reflux, heartburn, intestinal ulcers, peptic ulcer disease, and stomach ulcers.

How Ranitidine Works

Ranitidine is an Antacids. H2-receptors of the gastric parietal cells are responsible for the secretion of the gastric acid and ranitidine works by inhibiting the H2-receptors completely which in turn reducing the gastric acid secretion.

Side Effects of Ranitidine

Headache, Malaise, Dizziness, Insomnia, Vertigo, Constipation, Nausea, Vomiting, Abdominal discomfort, Allergic reactions (Fever, Rash, Bronchospasm)

Warnings

Kidney Use With Care

Ranitidine should be used with caution in patients with kidney disease. Dose adjustment of Ranitidine may be needed. Please consult your doctor.

Alcohol Not Advisable

It is not advisable to drink alcohol with Ranitidine as it may cause gastric mucosal irritation.

Pregnancy Maybe Safe

Ranitidine crosses the placenta but it does not show adverse effect while administering to pregnant patients in labour or undergoing Caesarean section. Please consult your doctor.

Driving Generally Safe

Ranitidine usually does not affect the ability to drive. Do not drive unless you are feeling well.

Liver Use With Care

Ranitidine should be used with caution in patients with liver disease. Dose adjustment of Ranitidine may be needed. Please consult your doctor.

Lactation Not Advisable

Ranitidine is shown to be excreted in breast milk. It is not advisable for women to breastfeed while consuming Ranitidine. Please consult a doctor before consuming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Written by , MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).