RANITIDINE
Background and Date of Approval
The U.S. FDA approved ranitidine for treating heartburn, indigestion, and acid indigestion on August 31, 2014. Ranitidine is an H2 receptor antagonist that works by reducing stomach acid production through blockade of histamine action.
Uses
Ranitidine treats heartburn, indigestion, and acid indigestion and reduces the amount of acid the stomach produces. It is used for treating and preventing stomach ulcers. It also treats duodenal (small intestine) ulcers.
How is it administered?
Ranitidine Tablet Take the Ranitidine as your physician advises. Do not crush, chew, or open the medicine. Your physician will decide the correct dosage and duration based on age, body weight, and disease condition. Only stop taking the tablet if your doctor advises you to stop. Ranitidine Injection Ranitidine will be administered to you by a healthcare professional in a hospital setting. It is usually administered in a vein (intravenous). Your doctor will decide the dose, route of administration, and frequency based on your disease condition and other factors.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Ranitidine are constipation, stomach pain, sick feeling (nausea), and headache. Serious side effects while taking Ranitidine are allergic reactions (rash, itching, or hives on the skin, swelling on the lips, face, tongue, or other body parts, pain in the chest, shortness of breath, or wheezing), sudden fever, slow or irregular heartbeat, severe stomach pain (pancreatitis), kidney problem.
Warnings
Do not consume Ranitidine if you are allergic to Ranitidine or its other ingredients. Notify your doctor if you have liver, lung, or kidney conditions. Before starting treatment with this medicine, notify your doctor if you have diabetes, immune system problems, acute porphyria, or a history of stomach ulcer or duodenal ulcer.
Precautions
Notify your doctor if you have lung, liver, or kidney problems. Your doctor may adjust your dose in such conditions. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to get pregnant, or think you may be pregnant or breastfeeding. Inform your doctor if you are more than 65 years of age. In case of impaired kidney function, a lower dose may be prescribed by your doctor.
Word of Advice
Do not take a double dose to compensate for a missed dose. Inform your doctor if you experience any serious adverse effects. Patients with liver or kidney disease should use Ranitidine with caution and must inform their doctor of all underlying medical conditions and other medications they are taking. Do not discontinue Ranitidine without your doctor's advice. Your doctor will determine if dose adjustments are necessary for your treatment. Contact your doctor for further information. Store out of sight and reach of children and pets. Do not freeze. Do not store above 25°C. Always verify the expiry date before use.
References
Noumed life science limited, Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Accessed on 7th June 2023], pil.2497.pdf (medicines.org.uk) GlaxoSmithKlin, US Food and Drug Administration; [Accessed on 7th June 2023], label (fda.gov) Alliance Pharmaceuticals Limited, Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Revised on May 2020] [Accessed on 7th June 2023], PATIENT INFORMATION LEAFLET (medicines.org.uk) GlaxoSmithKlin, US Food and Drug Administration; [Accessed on 7th June 2023], label (fda.gov) Keith A. Sharkey and Wallace K. MacNaughton, Gastrointestinal Pharmacology, Pharmacotherapy for Gastric Acidity, Goodman & Gilmanâs Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, 13th Edition, 2018, 909-913.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of day to take Ranitidine?
The best time of day to take Ranitidine can vary depending on the individual and healthcare provider's recommendation. It is generally recommended to follow the prescribed dosage instructions and take medicine at the same time each day for consistency.
What are the side effects of Ranitidine?
Common side effects of Ranitidine may include headache, dizziness, diarrhea, constipation, and stomach discomfort. Rare but serious side effects may include allergic reactions, liver problems, and low platelet count.
How to manage the side effects of Ranitidine?
To manage the side effects of Ranitidine, follow your doctor's instructions, stay hydrated, and monitor the changes. Report severe side effects to your doctor and inform them about other medications or conditions. Maintain a healthy lifestyle and consult your doctor for personalized guidance.
Can you take Ranitidine when pregnant?
The safety of using Ranitidine during pregnancy is uncertain. Consult your medical professional regarding the use of Ranitidine during pregnancy. The potential benefits and risks should be carefully assessed. Your doctor will suggest taking this medicine only if it's necessary.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Ranitidine?
If you miss a capsule dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it's close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose of Ranitidine.
Does ranitidine cause constipation?
Constipation is not a commonly reported side effect of this medicine; it may occur in some individuals. If you experience constipation, contact your doctor immediately. Your doctor may prescribe precise other medicine to reduce the side effects of rantidine.