Zantac

Generic Name: Ranitidine hydrochloride
Product Name: Zantac

Indication

The use of Ranitidine is indicated in the following conditions:

• Peptic ulcer disease
• Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease
• Heartburn

Action

Zantac belongs to a class of drugs called histamine receptor antagonists. Its active ingredient, Ranitidine, works by decreasing the amount of acid the stomach produces.

Dose advice

Peptic Ulcer Disease:

• The initial recommended dose is 300 mg orally given as a single evening dose for 4–8 weeks or 50 mg intravenously or intramuscularly given every 6–8 hours.
• Maintenance dosing is 150–300 mg orally given as a single evening dose.

Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disease:

• 300 mg orally given as a single evening dose

Prevention of stress ulcer:

• The initial dose is 50 mg intravenously given slowly
• An intravenous infusion of 125–250 micrograms/kg/hour should be continued until risk factors for stress ulcer are removed.

Heartburn:

• 150 mg orally twice a day for 4–8 weeks.

Children:

• 2–4 mg/kg orally twice daily up to a maximum dose of 300 mg a day. 1 mg/kg intravenously every 6–8 hours up to a maximum dose of 50 mg.

Schedule

S4

Common side effects

• Headache
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Confusion (especially in elderly people)
• Diarrhoea
• Constipation
• Rash

Uncommon side effects

• Development of breast tissue in males
• Decreased libido
• Impotence
• Reversible involuntary movement

For further information talk to your doctor.