General Information On Zantac
Zantac is used to provide relief from symptoms of heartburn, hyperacidity (excess acid in the stomach) and indigestion. It is also used for the prevention and treatment of stomach ulcers and throat problems caused by excess acid in the stomach.
Ranitidine Hydrochloride, the main active ingredient in the medicine, belongs to a family of drugs known as Histamine h2 receptor antagonists. It works by blocking the action of Histamine, a chemical which stimulates the cells in the stomach to produce acid. This action causes a reduction in the acid produced by the stomach cells.
Zantac is available in the form of a tablet. It is supplied in two different strengths: Zantac 150mg and 300mg, each containing 150mg and 300mg of Ranitidine Hydrochloride respectively. At higher strengths, the drug is a prescription medication, so consult your doctor before you buy Zantac online. Lower strengths can be purchased over the counter.
Side effects of Zantac
Zantac may cause minor to severe side effects in some people. Diarrhea, headache, constipation, or dizziness are some less severe side effects associated with the medication. These side effects wane over time as your body gets used to the drug. If any side effects become bothersome or stay for a long time, consult your doctor.
Some people may also experience severe side effects such as easy bruising/bleeding, slow/fast/irregular heartbeat, blurred vision, enlarged breasts, mood changes (such as hallucinations, confusion, depression, agitation), dark urine, severe abdominal/stomach pain, yellowing of the eyes or skin, or signs of infections (persistent sore throat, fever, cough) after using the medication.
In rare cases, Zantac may also cause allergic reactions in some people. Stop using it and seek medical attention immediately if you notice or experience trouble breathing, rashes, swelling/itching of the throat/face/tongue, or severe dizziness.
Zantac is listed as a category B pregnancy medicine. Therefore, pregnant women, women planning to become pregnant, or nursing mothers should buy Zantac only after learning about the risks and benefits of using the drug from their doctor.
Dosage of Zantac
Your doctor will give specific instructions regarding the dosage. The dosage depends on the medical condition that is being treated.
- The recommended dose to treat active duodenal and gastric ulcers is one Zantac 150 mg tablet twice daily. The maintenance dose is one Zantac 150 mg tablet at bedtime.
- The recommended dose to treat heartburn is 75 mg or 150mg, 1-2 times daily. You need to take the recommended dose of Zantac 30-60 minutes before consuming beverages or meals that cause heartburn.
- The recommended dose to treat erosive esophagitis is one Zantac 150 mg tablet 4 times daily.
You can take Zantac with or without food. If you are using the drug without a prescription, you should not take it for more than 2 weeks.
Interactions
Zantac may potentially interact with other medicines you are using and cause side effects. It may react with Cefpodoxime, Posaconazole, Dipyridamole, Atazanavir, Ketoconazole, Itraconazole, and certain NSAIDS and anti-inflammatory drugs.
Before you buy Zantac, tell the doctor about every medicine you are using, which includes prescription medications, over the counter drugs and herbal supplements.
