About ranitidin hcl
Histamine-2 receptor blocker
Used for
- Treatment of stomach and duodenal ulcers
- Relief of heartburn and acid indigestion
- Treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease
- Reduction of stomach acid in selected conditions
Usual adult dose
Commonly 150 mg twice daily or 300 mg at bedtime; dosing depends on the condition.
Usual dose in children
For some conditions, 2–4 mg/kg twice daily, maximum 300 mg daily; clinician-directed.
Common side effects
- Headache
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Nausea
- Rare confusion, especially in older adults or kidney impairment
Important warnings
- Ranitidine products were withdrawn or restricted in many countries over NDMA contamination concerns; availability varies.
- Dose reduction may be needed with kidney impairment.
- Seek urgent care for vomiting blood, black stools, or difficulty swallowing.
- Long-term symptoms may require medical assessment.
Pregnancy
Use only when needed and after clinician review; available evidence has not shown a clear increased risk.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts may enter breast milk; generally considered compatible, with clinician review.
Interactions
- Warfarin: monitoring may be needed.
- Atazanavir and some other medicines need stomach acid for absorption.
- Antacids may affect absorption; separate doses as directed.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.