Warnings & Recalls for Zantac
According to the
U.S. Food and Drug Administration in
April of 2012, prescriptions of
Zantac and
Zyrtac are frequently confused for one another. Packaging of the two medications is
not similar.
Be sure you are taking the correct drug.
Before taking Zantac, tell your doctor if you have:
- any allergies, especially to acid blockers
- blood problems
- a history of liver disease or failure
- a history of kidney disease or failure
- stomach issues such as a tumor
- heart disease or disorders
- been taking any other medicines
Zantac Drug Interactions
To avoid further damage to the lining of your stomach,
do not drink alcohol.
Do not take any
non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NAIDs) while using Zantac. This could increase your risk of
bleeding or
bruising.
If you are taking Zantac you
should not take any other acid blockers as this may cause a dangerous increase in levels of this medication in the blood.
Tell your doctor about
any medicines you are using to avoid possible harmful interactions.
Blood thinners (
Warfarin),
anti-anxiety medication,
antifungals,
HIV/AIDS medication,
cancer treatments,
benzodiazepines, procainamide, propantheline, and other drugs may affect the level of
Zantac in your blood.
Zantac and Pregnancy
Zantac is listed as an FDA
pregnancy Category B drug. Zantac is
not suspected to cause any harm to the fetus if taken during
pregnancy. Zantac
can pass through breast-milk to a nursing baby. If you are pregnant, planning on becoming pregnant or are breastfeeding,
consult your doctor before taking Zantac.
Zantac Treatment and Use
Zantac | Ranitidine is a histamine H2-receptor antagonist, acid-blocking medication, similar to Tagamet HB, marketed by Pfizer for treating high levels of acid in the throat and stomach. Zantac is commonly used for relieving symptoms of indigestion and for treating or reducing ulcers in the stomach or intestines. Zantac reduces harmful effects caused by the following:
How Does Zantac Work?
Zantac interferes with histamine receptors found in the stomach that can increase the level of acid. Upon blocking histamines, Zantac causes less acid to be produced, alleviating or preventing heartburn and ulcers.
How Should Zantac be Used?
Zantac comes in tablet form to be taken as needed. To prevent heartburn, take Zantac 30 minutes to an hour before consuming anything that may trigger indigestion. Zantac should be taken:
- by mouth with a full glass of water
- whole without chewing
- no more than twice every day unless recommended by your doctor
Take Zantac as instructed on label. Do not take more Zantac than prescribed by your doctor.
Zantac should not be taken by children under 12 years old unless prescribed by a doctor.
