Ranitidine (By Mouth)

Ranitidine Hydrochloride

Treats stomach ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Also treats conditions that cause your stomach to make too much acid (such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome). This medicine is a histamine H2-blocker.

Brand Name(s):

Zantac 300, Zantac, Zantac 150 Efferdose, Zantac 150, Zantac 75, Taladine, Ranitidine HCl
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to ranitidine.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet, Liquid Filled Capsule, Liquid, Packet, Fizzy Tablet, Fizzy Powder, Syrup

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• If you are using this medicine without a prescription, follow the instructions on the medicine label.
• Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup.
• Mix each dose of the effervescent tablet or powder (packet) in 8 ounces (1 cup) of water. Drink this mixture right after mixing it. Do not save any unused mixture.

If a dose is missed:

• If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose.
• Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store the medicine at room temperature in a closed container, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. You may store the oral liquid in the refrigerator.
• Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
• Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using triazolam (Halcion®) or a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin®).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease, liver disease, or a history of acute porphyria.
• EFFERdose® tablets and powder (packet) contain phenylalanine. If you have phenylketonuria, talk to your doctor before using this medicine.
• Make sure any doctor or dentist who treats you knows that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect the results of certain medical tests. This includes tests for protein in your urine.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Blistering, peeling, red skin rash
• Dark-colored urine or pale stools
• Fast, slow, or uneven heartbeat
• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness
• Yellow skin or eyes

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Headache
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.