Zantac

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

Introduction

Zantac 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

Zantac 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

Zantac 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?

Zantac 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

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

Route of Elimination

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

Dosage

Zantac 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

Zantac 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

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

Precautions

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

Interactions

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

Disease Interactions

Zantac 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

Zantac 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

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

Pregnancy Use

Zantac 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

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

Contraindication

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

Use Direction

Zantac 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

Zantac 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 Zantac is 5L/kg.

Half Life

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

Clearance

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

Here you find in details version of Zantac

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Zantac

What is Zantac?

Zantac 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 Zantac work?

Zantac 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 Zantac?

The brand name of Zantac is Zantac.

What is the dosage of Zantac?

The dosage of Zantac 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 Zantac?

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

Does Zantac interact with other medications?

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

What is the difference between Zantac and Famotidine?

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

Can I take Zantac while pregnant/breastfeeding?

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

How long does it take for Zantac to work?

Zantac 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 Zantac together?

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

Is Zantac a laxative?

No, Zantac is not a laxative.

How should I take Zantac?

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

Can I take Zantac long-term?

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

What foods should I avoid while taking Zantac?

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 Zantac.

Can Zantac cause weight gain?

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

Can I take Omeprazole and Zantac together?

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

Can I take vitamin C while taking Zantac?

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

Does Zantac raise blood pressure?

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

Can I take Zantac if I have diabetes?

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

Can I take ibuprofen and Zantac together?

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

Can I take aspirin and Zantac together?

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

Does Zantac cause constipation?

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

Can I take Pepto-Bismol and Zantac together?

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

What is the best time of day to take Zantac?

The best time of day to take Zantac 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 Zantac together?

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

Can Zantac cause liver damage?

Zantac 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 Zantac together?

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

Does Zantac cause weight loss?

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

Can Zantac increase anxiety?

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

Can Zantac cause diarrhea?

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

Can I take Prilosec and Zantac together?

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

Can I take phentermine and Zantac together?

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

Can I take smellaid and Zantac together?

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

Can I take Zofran and Zantac together?

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

Can I take Allegra and Zantac together?

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

Can I take a multivitamin and Zantac together?

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

Can I take Tagamet and Zantac together?

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

Can Zantac cause stomach pain?

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

Can I take ibuprofen and Zantac at the same time?

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

Can I take aspirin and Zantac at the same time?

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

Can Zantac cause headaches?

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

Can I take Benadryl and Zantac together?

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

Can I take Tylenol and Zantac together?

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

Can I take Prevacid and Zantac together?

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

Can I take Zantac and Pepcid AC together?

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

Can Zantac cause dizziness?

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