Ranitidine

Other Names: Tritec, Zantac, EFFERdose

Commonly prescribed for: Ranitidine is generally prescribed for treating and preventing ulcers in stomach and intestines. This medication can also be used for treating Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (a condition where the stomach secretes excess amounts of acid). It can be used for treating gastroesophageal reflux disease (condition where the backward flow of acid from stomach the esophagus leads to heartburn). It is commonly used with other medications.

How to take it: Ranitidine is available in the form of a tablet, granules, and a effervescent tablets to be taken via mouth. This medication is normally taken with eight ounces of water. Do not chew or crush the effervescent tablets, instead swallow the tablets completely. Take this medication as prescribed.

How it works: Ranitidine belongs to a group of drugs known as histamine-2 blockers. This medication works to decrease the amount of acid secreted in the stomach.

Side effects: Common side effects include headache, diarrhea or constipation, drowsiness, stomach pain, dizziness, vomiting, sleep problems, swollen or tender breasts, decreased sex drive, and impotence. Some serious side effects include chest pain, yellowing of the skin, fever, clay-colored stools, feeling short of breath, dark urine, yellow mucus, loss of appetite, easy bruising or bleeding, low fever, unusual weakness, stomach pain, slow heart rate, nausea, red skin rash, sore throat, and severe blistering.