Zantac (Ranitidine) is a type of antihistamine that blocks the release of stomach acid.

Zantac is prescribed for the short-term treatment (4 to 8 weeks) of active duodenal ulcer and active benign gastric ulcer, and as maintenance therapy for gastric or duodenal ulcer, at a reduced dosage, after the ulcer has healed. Zantac is also used for the treatment of conditions in which the stomach produces too much acid, such as Zollinger-Ellison

Zantac is one of a group of medicines known as H2-receptor antagonists. Zantac acts by blocking histamine receptors, which are present on the cells in the stomach lining.

Normally a substance called histamine binds to these receptors. Histamine is a chemical produced throughout the body and has many effects. When histamine binds to H2 receptors on cells in the stomach lining, it causes them to produce acid.

Zantac binds to H2 receptors, replacing

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

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

Adults
Active Duodenal Ulcer
The usual starting dose of Zantac is 150 milligrams 2 times a day. Your doctor also might prescribe 300 milligrams once a day, after the evening meal or at bedtime, if necessary for your convenience. The dose should be the lowest effective dose. Long-term use should be reduced to a daily total of 150 milligrams taken

The following drugs may interact with Zantac

• alcohol containing beverages
• alendronate
• antacids
• cefditoren
• cefpodoxime
• cefuroxime
• delavirdine
• enoxacin
• glipizide
• glyburide
• iron supplements
• itraconazole
• ketoconazole
• metformin
• nifedipine
• propantheline
• theophylline
• triazolam
• warfarin

Tell your prescriber or health care

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.

Zantac precautions if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
Zantac is not recommended for use in pregnancy unless considered essential by your doctor. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Zantac may pass into breast milk. Zantac should not be used during breastfeeding unless considered essential by your doctor. Seek

• headache

Less common side effects of Zantac may include:

• abdominal discomfort and pain,
• agitation,
• changes in blood count (anemia),
• changes in liver function,
• constipation,
• depression,
• diarrhea,
• difficulty sleeping,
• dizziness,
• hair loss,
• hallucinations,
• heart block,
• hepatitis,
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