Ranitidine HCl Oral
In Depth
- Uses and How to Use
- Dosage and Storage
- Precautions and Side Effects
- Drug Interactions
- Drug Images
Pronounced: (ran-IT-uh-deen)
Ranitidine HCl Oral Uses
Ranitidine is used to treat ulcers of the stomach and intestines and prevent them from returning after treatment. This medication is also used to treat and prevent certain stomach and throat (esophagus) problems caused by too much stomach acid (e.g., Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, erosive esophagitis) or a backward flow of stomach acid into the esophagus (gastroesophageal reflux disease-GERD).
Ranitidine is known as an H2 histamine blocker. It works by reducing the amount of acid in your stomach. This helps heal and prevent ulcers and improves symptoms such as heartburn and stomach pain.
How To Use Ranitidine HCl Oral
Dissolve 1 tablet in at least 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) of water. After the tablet is completely dissolved, give the solution by mouth with or without food, usually once or twice daily or as directed by your doctor. When giving the solution to an infant, it is best to use a medicine dropper or oral syringe (available from your pharmacist). If this medication is being used once daily, it is usually taken after the evening meal or before bedtime.
The dosage and length of treatment are based on medical condition and response to therapy. In children, dosage may also be based on body weight. Follow the doctor's instructions carefully. Other medications (e.g., antacids) may be taken if needed as recommended by the doctor.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day. Do not increase the dose or use it more often than prescribed. Do not stop using this without the doctor's approval because this may delay healing of the ulcer.
Tell the doctor if the condition does not improve or if it worsens.
