About ranitidine
H2-receptor blocker
Used for
- Short-term treatment of stomach or duodenal ulcers
- Treatment of reflux disease and erosive oesophagitis
- Prevention of stress-related stomach ulcers in hospital care
- Reduction of stomach acid before anaesthesia
Usual adult dose
Commonly 50 mg by slow intravenous or intramuscular injection every 6–8 hours; dose varies by condition and kidney function.
Usual dose in children
For selected hospital uses, commonly 1 mg/kg by slow intravenous injection every 6–8 hours; specialist dosing is required.
Common side effects
- Headache
- Nausea or diarrhoea
- Injection-site discomfort
- Rarely, confusion or abnormal heart rhythm
Important warnings
- Ranitidine has been withdrawn or restricted in many countries over contamination concerns; availability and status vary.
- Reduced kidney function may require a lower dose.
- Rare severe allergic reactions and liver or blood disorders can occur.
- Injection should be given by trained healthcare staff.
Pregnancy
Use only when clinically needed; pregnancy safety information is limited.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts enter breast milk; use only when clinically needed.
Interactions
- Warfarin: monitoring may be needed.
- Procainamide: ranitidine can increase its blood levels.
- Medicines needing stomach acidity for absorption may work differently.
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 It may be incomplete or out of date.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.