Zantac

This page contains drug information on Zantac.
The information provided includes the following:
what is Zantac
the possible side effects of Zantac
what happens if you miss a dose of Zantac
what happens if you overdose with Zantac
the most important information about Zantac
how to use Zantac
other drugs that may affect Zantac
what to avoid while using Zantac
 
Generic Name: ranitidine (ra NIH te deen)
Brand Names: Zantac, Zantac 150, Zantac 300, Zantac 300 GELdose, Zantac 75, Zantac EFFERdose, Zantac GELdose
 
What is the most important information I should know about zantac?
 •  Do not stop taking zantac without first talking to your doctor. It may take up to 8 weeks for an ulcer to heal.
 •  Do not take antacids within 1 hour of taking zantac. Antacids may decrease the effectiveness of zantac.

What is zantac?
 •  zantac is in a class of drugs called histamine receptor antagonists. zantac works by decreasing the amount of acid the stomach produces.
 •  zantac is used to treat and prevent ulcers in the stomach and intestines. zantac is also used to treat conditions in which the stomach produces too much acid and conditions in which acid comes up into the esophagus and causes heartburn, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
 •  zantac may also be used for conditions other than those listed in this medication guide.

Who should not take zantac?
 •  Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have
      · kidney disease
      · liver disease or
      · porphyria.
 •  You may not be able to take zantac, or you may require a dosage adjustmentor special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
 •  The Zantac 150 mg EFFERdose Tablets and Zantac 150 mg EFFERdose Granules contain 16.84 mg of phenylalanine per 150 mg of zantac. Individuals with phenylketonuria may need to monitor their intake of this additive.
 •  zantac is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is unlikely to harm an unborn baby. Do not take zantac without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.
 •  zantac passes into breast milk. Do not take zantac without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take zantac?
 •  Take zantac exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
 •  Take each dose with a full glass of water.
 •  To ensure that you get the correct dose, measure the liquid form of zantac with a dose-measuring spoon or cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.
 •  Zantac syrup may be administered by medicine dropper or oral syringe for infants.
 •  Dissolve the Zantac 150 mg EFFERdose Tablets and Zantac 150 mg EFFERdose Granules in approximately 6 to 8 ounces of water before drinking. EFFERdose Tablets should not be chewed, swallowed whole, or dissolved on the tongue.
 •  Do not stop taking zantac without first talking to your doctor. It may take up to 8 weeks for an ulcer to heal.
 •  Store zantac at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?
 •  Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

What happens if I overdose?
 •  Seek emergency medical attention.
 •  Symptoms of a zantac overdose include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, increased saliva production, difficulty breathing, and a fast heartbeat.

What should I avoid while taking zantac?
 •  There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activity while taking zantac, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of zantac?
 •  If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking zantac and call your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical treatment:
      · an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing closing of your throat swelling of your lips, tongue, or face or hives)
      · easy or unusual bruising or bleeding
      · bleeding gums
      · irregular heartbeat or
      · yellowing of the skin or eyes.
 •  Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take zantac and talk to your doctor if you experience
      · dizziness
      · headache or
      · diarrhea, nausea, or constipation.
 •  Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect zantac?
 •  Do not take antacids within 1 hour of taking zantac. Antacids may decrease the effectiveness of zantac.
 •  Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:
      · triazolam (Halcion) or
      · the anticoagulant (blood thinner) such as warfarin (Coumadin).
 •  You may not be able to take zantac, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you are taking either of the medicines listed above.
 •  zantac may affect the actions of other medications by changing the acidity of the stomach. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines during treatment with zantac.