Zantac

Generic name: Ranitidine hydrochloride

Why is Zantac prescribed?

Zantac is used to decrease the production of stomach acid, which may reduce irritation to the stomach lining and help heal ulcers and other gastrointestinal conditions. It's prescribed for the following:

• Short-term treatment (4 to 8 weeks) of active ulcers, specifically duodenal ulcers or benign stomach ulcers (also called gastric ulcers).
• Maintenance therapy (at a reduced dosage) to help keep the ulcer from coming back after it has healed.
• Treatment of conditions in which the stomach produces too much acid, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome and systemic mastocytosis.
• Treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (also known as GERD, which occurs when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus).
• Treating and maintaining healing of erosive esophagitis (severe inflammation of the esophagus).

Two over-the-counter versions, Zantac 75 and Zantac 150, are also available for relieving and preventing heartburn, acid indigestion, and sour stomach. However, the prescription version is still needed for treatment of ulcers, esophagitis, GERD, and other conditions that require monitoring by a doctor.

Most important fact about Zantac

Zantac helps to prevent the recurrence of gastric or duodenal ulcers and aids the healing of ulcers that do occur.

How should you take Zantac?

Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Make sure you follow the diet your doctor recommends.

Dissolve effervescent tablets and granules in 6 to 8 ounces of water before taking them.

You can take an antacid for pain while you are taking Zantac.

• If you miss a dose...
  Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

• Storage instructions...
  Store this medication at room temperature in the container it came in, tightly closed and away from moist places and direct light. Keep Zantac syrup from freezing.