RANITIDINE (Zantac®) is a type of antihistamine that blocks the release of stomach acid. Ranitidine is used to treat stomach or intestinal ulcers. It can relieve ulcer pain and discomfort, and the heartburn from acid reflux. Generic ranitidine tablets and capsules are available.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
•frequently drink alcohol-containing beverages
•kidney disease
•liver disease
•other chronic illness
•porphyria
•an unusual or allergic reaction to ranitidine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
•pregnant or trying to get pregnant
•breast-feeding

How should I take this medicine?
Take ranitidine tablets or capsules by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the tablets or capsules with a drink of water. If you only take ranitidine once a day, take it at bedtime. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What drug(s) may interact with ranitidine?
•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 professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What side effects may I notice from taking ranitidine?
Side effects with ranitidine are infrequent.
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
•agitation, nervousness, depression, hallucinations
•breast swelling and tenderness, or sexual difficulties (impotence) in men
•redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
•skin rash, itching
•unusual weakness or tiredness
•vomiting
•yellowing of the skin or eyes

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
•constipation or diarrhea
•dizziness
•headache
•nausea