Ranitidine
Information about Ranitidine
Ranitidine uses
Ranitidine is used in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (acid reflux) and peptic ulcer disease.
How ranitidine works
Ranitidine is a histamine H2 receptor blocker that reduces the amount of acid made in the stomach. It relieves acid-related indigestion and heartburn.
Common side effects of ranitidine
Headache, Diarrhea, Gastrointestinal disturbance, Blood disorder, Intrahepatic cholestasis, Hypersensitivity, Disorientation (alteration of mental status), Confusion, Anxiety, Agitation, Depression, Decreased libido, Insomnia (difficulty in sleeping)
Available Medicine for Ranitidine
Expert advice for Ranitidine
- Take Ranitidine before going to bed if you are taking this medicine once a day. It is very effective in controlling stomach acid that is released when you are asleep.
- If you are also taking other medications to treat acidity (e.g., antacid), take them 2 hours before or after taking Ranitidine.
- Avoid taking soft drinks, citrus fruits like orange and lemon, which can irritate the stomach and increase acid secretion.
- Inform your doctor if you do not feel better after taking Ranitidine for 2 weeks as you may be suffering from some other problems.
- Inform your doctor if you have ever been diagnosed with kidney disease as dose of your medicine may need to be adjusted.
- Do not stop taking the medication without talking to your doctor.
Frequently asked questions for Ranitidine
Ranitidine
Q. Can I take Ranitidine empty stomach?
Ranitidine may be taken with or without food. It can be taken once daily before bedtime or twice daily in the morning and before bedtime, as recommended.
Q. How long does it take for Ranitidine to start working?
Ranitidine starts working as fast as 15 minutes from when it is given. Its effect is seen to last all day or all night.
Q. What is the difference between Ranitidine and omeprazole?
Ranitidine and Omeprazole belong to different groups of medicines. While Ranitidine belongs to histamine H2 antagonists group, Omeprazole belongs to proton pump inhibitors group. These medicines (Ranitidine and Omeprazole) work by reducing the amount of acid made by the stomach, to give relief of symptoms and allow healing to take place.