Ranitidine HCL General Information

Ranitidine hydrochloride (RHCL) is a medication used to treat stomach related ailments especially ulcers. It can be either sold as a prescription drug or over-the-counter in the form of a tablet or syrup. Sometimes, it is also recommended as a maintenance medication for duodenal ulcer

Ranitidine HCL Uses

RHCL has been licensed to be sold as a treatment for Duodenal ulcers, Gastric ulcers (stomach ulcers) , Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease, Erosive esophagitis , Pathological hypersecretory conditions (over-secretion of Stomach acids), Heartburn, Acid indigestion, or Sour stomach.

How Take Ranitidine HCL

RHCL dosage depends on the age of the patient, other medical histories and on medications being taken at present if any.
The tablet version of RHCL should be taken in the mouth with a full glass of water. Take it whole and do not chew or crush. It is advised to be taken at the same time everyday for maximum effect. The recommended dosages of Ranitidine HCL is:
150 mg: Twice daily at breakfast and before bedtime
300 mg : Once daily before bedtime
The syrup form is also available and must be taken as advised by a physician. It has been established that taking this medication is very effective if taken before meals.

Ranitidine HCL Warnings

RCHL is to be taken with care. Inform the doctor in case there is a history of Kidney disease or kidney failure, Liver disease, including liver failure or cirrhosis, acute porphyria, Phenylketonuria or in case of pregnancy or breast-feeding.

Ranitidine HCL Missed Dose

In the event of missing a dose, immediately take the dose and continue as usual. However, in case you realize the miss near the next scheduled time, do not take the missed dose; take the regular one.
Never take double doses at one go.

Ranitidine HCL Side Effects

The most common side effects are: Headache, Constipation, Upset stomach (nausea) or vomiting, Abdominal pain(stomach pain), Blurred vision, Increased risk of pneumonia, Dizziness or a spinning sensation (vertigo), Drowsiness or sleeping difficulty, Muscle pain or joint pain, Diarrhea, Hair loss, or Rashes
Serious side effects, which require immediate medical attention, are: Confusion, agitation, or hallucinations, Depression, liver problems hepatitis dark urine, Heart problems, Angioedema (swelling of the throat & mouth), or allergic reaction

Ranitidine HCL Storage Advice

Temperatures: 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C)
Avoid Heat, moisture, and light
Special Care from: Keep away from Children and pets
Location: Keep in Airtight containers

Ranitidine HCL Overdose

An overdose of RHCL must be flushed out of the stomach using a pump method or can also be removed by inducing vomiting. Always consult a doctor for these purposes. Some known symptoms are Low blood pressure or Hypotension, changes in walking pattern, muscle tremors or shakiness, vomiting, rapid breathing

Ranitidine HCL More Information

RHCL is available in several forms and strengths:
Tablet: Ranitidine 150mg, Ranitidine 300mg , Zantac 25mg EFFERdose , Zantac 150mg EFFERdose, Ranitidine 75 mg, Ranitidine 150mg.
Syrups: Ranitidine 15 mg / ml (75mg / teaspoonful)