Zantac

Other Names: Tritec, Ranitidine.

Commonly Prescribed For: Zantac often is used in the treatment of ulcers. In certain cases it is used to treat gastroesophageal disease, called as GERD, where acid flows from the stomach into the stomach walls leading to heartburn and esophageal injuries. It is used to treat Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.

How to Take it: Zantac can either be administered in tablet or syrup form. If you are prescribed Zantac as a tablet then the recommended oral dosage is no more than 150mg twice per day. If taking the syrup then you should not exceed 10ml (roughly 2 teaspoons) twice per day. If you take more than the recommended dose you should seek medical assistance immediately

How it Works: The active ingredient in Zantac is ranitidine which acts as a H2 receptor antagonist. What this effectively means is that by blocking the H2 receptors in your stomach and intestines it halts your cells from producing anymore acid. While some stomach acid is obviously healthy too much can cause such discomfort as indigestion and heartburn.

Some Side Effects: Zantac is not known for causing many adverse side effects however it is not unheard of for patients to develop slight skin rashes and be more susceptible to allergic reactions while on this drug. Rarely some patients will develop headaches, blurred vision, depression, confusion and hair loss. In the event of any of these symptoms medical help should be sought right away.