Gastrocil

Gastrocil Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Gastrocil is a brand name. Its generic name is Ranitidine.

Introduction

Gastrocil is a histamine-2(H2)-blocker used to treat and prevent stomach and duodenal ulcers, and to treat other stomach and gastrointestinal conditions. It is an over-the-counter drug, available both as a prescription and non-prescription medication.

Uses

Gastrocil is used to treat gastrointestinal disorders such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), ulcers, and other conditions involving excessive stomach acid. It can also be used to prevent stress ulcers, to treat heartburn, and to reduce the occurrence of stomach or duodenal ulcers

Mechanism of Action

Gastrocil works by reducing the amount of acid produced by the stomach, therefore reducing the symptoms of heartburn and other gastrointestinal conditions. It does this by blocking histamine-2, which reduces the amount of acid production in the stomach in response to food.

How Long Does it Take to Work?

Gastrocil begins to reduce stomach acid production and improve symptoms within a few hours or days after the first dose. The maximum benefit is usually reached within 4 weeks.

Absorption

Gastrocil is well absorbed in the stomach and intestine. It has an oral absorption rate of 65-80%.

Route of Elimination

Gastrocil is eliminated by the kidneys through urine via glomerular filtration and tubular secretion. Its elimination half-life is 1-2 hours.

Dosage

Gastrocil is available in tablets, capsules, and suspension forms. The dosage forms and strengths are as follows:

• Tablet: 75 mg, 150 mg, and 300 mg
• Capsules: 75 mg and 150 mg
• Suspension: 10 mg/mL

The usual adult dose for treatment of active duodenal ulcers is 150 mg to 300 mg twice daily. For maintenance of healing of duodenal ulcers, 150 mg once daily is recommended.

For treatment of esophageal reflux, the usual dose is 150 to 300 mg twice daily. For maintenance of healing of esophageal lesions, the recommended dose is 150 mg once daily.

For treatment of conditions involving excessive stomach acid, the recommended dose is 150 to 300 mg twice daily.

Administration

Gastrocil can be taken with or without food. It should be taken with a full glass of water to ensure that it is completely absorbed. It is important to consume the full amount of water that is recommended for each dose.

Side Effects

Common side effects of ranitidine include headache, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, rash, dizziness, and abdominal pain. Less common side effects may include muscle pain, joint pain, fever, mental confusion, and depression.

Toxicity

Gastrocil has a low toxicity and is generally well tolerated. Large doses may cause hypotension and can be fatal in cases of overdose.

Precautions

Gastrocil should be used with caution in people with kidney or liver disease, and those with a history of drug allergies.

Interactions

Gastrocil may interact with other medications including antacids, drugs used to treat heartburn, anti-seizure medications, certain antibiotics, and theophyllines.

Disease Interactions

Gastrocil should not be used in people with porphyria, a rare metabolic disorder. It should also be used with caution in people with severe kidney disease.

Drug Interactions

Gastrocil can interact with certain medications such as antacids, drugs used to treat heartburn, anti-seizure medications, certain antibiotics, and theophyllines. Be sure to discuss all medications you are taking with your healthcare provider before taking ranitidine.

Food Interactions

Gastrocil may interact with food. Consuming alcohol while taking ranitidine may increase the risk of side effects such as headache, dizziness, and drowsiness.

Pregnancy Use

Gastrocil should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Be sure to discuss the use of ranitidine with your healthcare provider before using it during pregnancy.

Lactation Use

Gastrocil is excreted in breast milk and may affect a nursing baby. Therefore, it should be used with caution in breastfeeding women.

Acute Overdose

If an overdose of Gastrocil occurs, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include low blood pressure, dizziness, and unusual sleepiness.

Contraindication

Gastrocil is contraindicated in people who are allergic to the active ingredient in the drug.

Use Direction

Gastrocil should be taken as directed by your healthcare provider. The usual adult dose for treatment of active duodenal ulcers is 150 mg to 300 mg twice daily. For maintenance of healing of duodenal ulcers, 150 mg once daily is recommended.

Storage Condition

Gastrocil should be stored at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Volume of Distribution

The apparent volume of distribution for Gastrocil is 5L/kg.

Half Life

The half-life of Gastrocil is 1-2 hours.

Clearance

The clearance for Gastrocil is 10 mL/min/kg.

Here you find in details version of Gastrocil

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Gastrocil

What is Gastrocil?

Gastrocil is an over-the-counter and prescription histamine-2 blocker or H2 blocker used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome (ZES) and other conditions caused by too much acid in the stomach.

How does Gastrocil work?

Gastrocil works by inhibiting the production of acid in the stomach, thus reducing the symptoms of acid reflux. It can also protect the lining of the stomach from damage due to the excess stomach acid.

What is the brand name of Gastrocil?

The brand name of Gastrocil is Zantac.

What is the dosage of Gastrocil?

The dosage of Gastrocil depends on the medical condition and age of the patient; however, the usual dosage for adults in the treatment of acid reflux is 150 mg twice a day.

What are the side effects of Gastrocil?

The most common side effects of Gastrocil include headache, dizziness, nausea, and diarrhea. Other less common side effects include constipation, stomach pain, and rash.

Does Gastrocil interact with other medications?

Yes, Gastrocil can interact with other medications such as anticoagulants, sulfonylureas, and NSAIDs. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any other medication while taking Gastrocil.

What is the difference between Gastrocil and Famotidine?

Gastrocil and Famotidine are both H2 blockers used for treating acid reflux and GERD. The main difference between them is that Gastrocil is more effective for treating Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome. In terms of side effects, Gastrocil may cause headaches and dizziness, while Famotidine may cause diarrhea.

Can I take Gastrocil while pregnant/breastfeeding?

It is not recommended to take Gastrocil while pregnant or breastfeeding as it may be harmful to the fetus or infant. Talk to your doctor before taking Gastrocil during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

How long does it take for Gastrocil to work?

Gastrocil usually begins to work within an hour of taking it and continues to work for up to 12 hours.

Can I take Tylenol (acetaminophen) and Gastrocil together?

Yes, it is safe to take Tylenol (acetaminophen) and Gastrocil together.

Is Gastrocil a laxative?

No, Gastrocil is not a laxative.

How should I take Gastrocil?

Gastrocil should be taken with or without food as prescribed by a doctor. It is important to take Gastrocil exactly as prescribed and not to take more or less than recommended.

Can I take Gastrocil long-term?

Gastrocil can be taken long-term if it is necessary and advised by your doctor. It may be necessary to take Gastrocil long-term to treat certain conditions, such as Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome.

What foods should I avoid while taking Gastrocil?

It is recommended to avoid eating any food that increases the production of acid in the stomach, such as alcohol, caffeine, spicy foods, and citrus fruits while taking Gastrocil.

Can Gastrocil cause weight gain?

No, there is no evidence to suggest that Gastrocil is linked to weight gain.

Can I take Omeprazole and Gastrocil together?

No, it is not recommended to take Omeprazole and Gastrocil together as they are both H2 blockers that work by suppressing acid production in the stomach.

Can I take vitamin C while taking Gastrocil?

Yes, it is safe to take vitamin C while taking Gastrocil.

Does Gastrocil raise blood pressure?

No, there is no evidence to suggest that Gastrocil is linked to increased blood pressure.

Can I take Gastrocil if I have diabetes?

Yes, it is safe to take Gastrocil if you have diabetes.

Can I take ibuprofen and Gastrocil together?

Yes, it is safe to take ibuprofen and Gastrocil together.

Can I take aspirin and Gastrocil together?

Yes, it is safe to take aspirin and Gastrocil together.

Does Gastrocil cause constipation?

Yes, Gastrocil can cause constipation in some people. If you experience constipation while taking Gastrocil, it is important to contact your doctor.

Can I take Pepto-Bismol and Gastrocil together?

No, it is not recommended to take Pepto-Bismol and Gastrocil together as they both contain bismuth, which can have adverse effects when taken together.

What is the best time of day to take Gastrocil?

The best time of day to take Gastrocil depends on the dosage prescribed by your doctor. However, as a general rule, it is best to take the medication after meals or before bedtime.

Can I take Axid and Gastrocil together?

No, it is not recommended to take Axid and Gastrocil together as they both contain similar active ingredients and can lead to an overdose.

Can Gastrocil cause liver damage?

Gastrocil is not known to cause liver damage; however, if you notice any signs or symptoms of liver damage, it is important to contact your doctor immediately.

Can I take synthroid and Gastrocil together?

Yes, it is safe to take synthroid and Gastrocil together.

Does Gastrocil cause weight loss?

No, there is no evidence to suggest that Gastrocil is linked to weight loss.

Can Gastrocil increase anxiety?

Yes, Gastrocil can increase anxiety in some people. If you experience anxiety while taking Gastrocil, it is important to contact your doctor.

Can Gastrocil cause diarrhea?

Yes, Gastrocil can cause diarrhea in some people. If you experience diarrhea while taking Gastrocil, it is important to contact your doctor.

Can I take Prilosec and Gastrocil together?

No, it is not recommended to take Prilosec and Gastrocil together as they both contain similar active ingredients and can lead to an overdose.

Can I take phentermine and Gastrocil together?

Yes, it is safe to take phentermine and Gastrocil together.

Can I take smellaid and Gastrocil together?

Yes, it is safe to take smellaid and Gastrocil together.

Can I take Zofran and Gastrocil together?

Yes, it is safe to take Zofran and Gastrocil together.

Can I take Allegra and Gastrocil together?

Yes, it is safe to take Allegra and Gastrocil together.

Can I take a multivitamin and Gastrocil together?

Yes, it is safe to take a multivitamin and Gastrocil together.

Can I take Tagamet and Gastrocil together?

No, it is not recommended to take Tagamet and Gastrocil together as they both contain similar active ingredients and can lead to an overdose.

Can Gastrocil cause stomach pain?

Yes, Gastrocil can cause stomach pain in some people. If you experience stomach pain while taking Gastrocil, it is important to contact your doctor.

Can I take ibuprofen and Gastrocil at the same time?

Yes, it is safe to take ibuprofen and Gastrocil at the same time.

Can I take aspirin and Gastrocil at the same time?

Yes, it is safe to take aspirin and Gastrocil at the same time.

Can Gastrocil cause headaches?

Yes, Gastrocil can cause headaches in some people. If you experience headaches while taking Gastrocil, it is important to contact your doctor.

Can I take Benadryl and Gastrocil together?

Yes, it is safe to take Benadryl and Gastrocil together.

Can I take Tylenol and Gastrocil together?

Yes, it is safe to take Tylenol and Gastrocil together.

Can I take Prevacid and Gastrocil together?

No, it is not recommended to take Prevacid and Gastrocil together as they both contain similar active ingredients and can lead to an overdose.

Can I take Gastrocil and Pepcid AC together?

No, it is not recommended to take Gastrocil and Pepcid AC together as they both contain similar active ingredients and can lead to an overdose.

Can Gastrocil cause dizziness?

Yes, Gastrocil can cause dizziness in some people. If you experience dizziness while taking Gastrocil, it is important to contact your doctor.