Ranitidine Description

Generic Name : RANITIDINE

Pronunciation : (ra nye' te deen)

Trade Name(s) : Aciloc, Advene, Advene, Consec, Din, Giran, Histac, Histac-EVT, Kamtac, Lydin, Nilcer, R-loc, Ran X, Ranial, Ranitidine, RanitidineINJ, Ranitidine-AD, Ranitin, Rannet, Rantac, Rdin, Renitab, Ridcer, Rintid, Ulfast, Uttidin, Ulcitab, Zinetae, Zoran, Zynol

Why it is prescribed: Ranitidine decreases the amount of acid produced in the stomach. It is used to treat some types of gastrointestinal ulcers and conditions in which the stomach produces too much acid. Ranitidine also is used to prevent the recurrence of ulcers.

When it is to be taken: Ranitidine is usually taken twice a day or once a day at bedtime to prevent the recurrence of ulcers. Although most ulcers heal within four weeks, you may have to take ranitidine for up to eight weeks before complete healing occurs. Follow the instructions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor to explain any part that you do not understand.

How it should be taken: Ranitidine comes in the form of tablets and oral liquid. Your prescription label tells you how much to take at each dose. You may obtain a specially marked measuring spoon to be sure of an accurate dose of the liquid.

Special Instruction :
1. Keep all appointments with your doctor so your response to this medication can be checked.
2.If you forget to take a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, take only the scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Side Effects :
1. Headache, constipation, nausea, abdominal pain, dizziness. If these problems are severe or persistent, contact your doctor.
2. Fever, sore throat, mental confusion, yellowing of skin or eyes. Contact your doctor.

Other Precautions :
1. Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should inform their doctors before taking ranitidine.
2. Tell your doctor about any prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially propantheline, before taking ranitidine.
3. Tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease.
4. If you have ulcers, do not smoke cigarettes. Smoking apparently inhibits ulcer healing.

Storage Conditions : Keep this medication in the container it came in and out of the reach of children.