Ranitol

Ranitol Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Ranitol is a brand name. Its generic name is Ranitidine.

Introduction

Ranitol is a histamine-2(H2)-blocker used to treat and prevent stomach and duodenal ulcers, and to treat other stomach and gastrointestinal conditions. It is an over-the-counter drug, available both as a prescription and non-prescription medication.

Uses

Ranitol is used to treat gastrointestinal disorders such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), ulcers, and other conditions involving excessive stomach acid. It can also be used to prevent stress ulcers, to treat heartburn, and to reduce the occurrence of stomach or duodenal ulcers

Mechanism of Action

Ranitol works by reducing the amount of acid produced by the stomach, therefore reducing the symptoms of heartburn and other gastrointestinal conditions. It does this by blocking histamine-2, which reduces the amount of acid production in the stomach in response to food.

How Long Does it Take to Work?

Ranitol begins to reduce stomach acid production and improve symptoms within a few hours or days after the first dose. The maximum benefit is usually reached within 4 weeks.

Absorption

Ranitol is well absorbed in the stomach and intestine. It has an oral absorption rate of 65-80%.

Route of Elimination

Ranitol is eliminated by the kidneys through urine via glomerular filtration and tubular secretion. Its elimination half-life is 1-2 hours.

Dosage

Ranitol is available in tablets, capsules, and suspension forms. The dosage forms and strengths are as follows:

• Tablet: 75 mg, 150 mg, and 300 mg
• Capsules: 75 mg and 150 mg
• Suspension: 10 mg/mL

The usual adult dose for treatment of active duodenal ulcers is 150 mg to 300 mg twice daily. For maintenance of healing of duodenal ulcers, 150 mg once daily is recommended.

For treatment of esophageal reflux, the usual dose is 150 to 300 mg twice daily. For maintenance of healing of esophageal lesions, the recommended dose is 150 mg once daily.

For treatment of conditions involving excessive stomach acid, the recommended dose is 150 to 300 mg twice daily.

Administration

Ranitol can be taken with or without food. It should be taken with a full glass of water to ensure that it is completely absorbed. It is important to consume the full amount of water that is recommended for each dose.

Side Effects

Common side effects of ranitidine include headache, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, rash, dizziness, and abdominal pain. Less common side effects may include muscle pain, joint pain, fever, mental confusion, and depression.

Toxicity

Ranitol has a low toxicity and is generally well tolerated. Large doses may cause hypotension and can be fatal in cases of overdose.

Precautions

Ranitol should be used with caution in people with kidney or liver disease, and those with a history of drug allergies.

Interactions

Ranitol may interact with other medications including antacids, drugs used to treat heartburn, anti-seizure medications, certain antibiotics, and theophyllines.

Disease Interactions

Ranitol should not be used in people with porphyria, a rare metabolic disorder. It should also be used with caution in people with severe kidney disease.

Drug Interactions

Ranitol can interact with certain medications such as antacids, drugs used to treat heartburn, anti-seizure medications, certain antibiotics, and theophyllines. Be sure to discuss all medications you are taking with your healthcare provider before taking ranitidine.

Food Interactions

Ranitol may interact with food. Consuming alcohol while taking ranitidine may increase the risk of side effects such as headache, dizziness, and drowsiness.

Pregnancy Use

Ranitol should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Be sure to discuss the use of ranitidine with your healthcare provider before using it during pregnancy.

Lactation Use

Ranitol is excreted in breast milk and may affect a nursing baby. Therefore, it should be used with caution in breastfeeding women.

Acute Overdose

If an overdose of Ranitol occurs, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include low blood pressure, dizziness, and unusual sleepiness.

Contraindication

Ranitol is contraindicated in people who are allergic to the active ingredient in the drug.

Use Direction

Ranitol should be taken as directed by your healthcare provider. The usual adult dose for treatment of active duodenal ulcers is 150 mg to 300 mg twice daily. For maintenance of healing of duodenal ulcers, 150 mg once daily is recommended.

Storage Condition

Ranitol should be stored at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Volume of Distribution

The apparent volume of distribution for Ranitol is 5L/kg.

Half Life

The half-life of Ranitol is 1-2 hours.

Clearance

The clearance for Ranitol is 10 mL/min/kg.

Here you find in details version of Ranitol

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Ranitol

What is Ranitol?

Ranitol is an over-the-counter and prescription histamine-2 blocker or H2 blocker used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome (ZES) and other conditions caused by too much acid in the stomach.

How does Ranitol work?

Ranitol works by inhibiting the production of acid in the stomach, thus reducing the symptoms of acid reflux. It can also protect the lining of the stomach from damage due to the excess stomach acid.

What is the brand name of Ranitol?

The brand name of Ranitol is Zantac.

What is the dosage of Ranitol?

The dosage of Ranitol depends on the medical condition and age of the patient; however, the usual dosage for adults in the treatment of acid reflux is 150 mg twice a day.

What are the side effects of Ranitol?

The most common side effects of Ranitol include headache, dizziness, nausea, and diarrhea. Other less common side effects include constipation, stomach pain, and rash.

Does Ranitol interact with other medications?

Yes, Ranitol can interact with other medications such as anticoagulants, sulfonylureas, and NSAIDs. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any other medication while taking Ranitol.

What is the difference between Ranitol and Famotidine?

Ranitol and Famotidine are both H2 blockers used for treating acid reflux and GERD. The main difference between them is that Ranitol is more effective for treating Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome. In terms of side effects, Ranitol may cause headaches and dizziness, while Famotidine may cause diarrhea.

Can I take Ranitol while pregnant/breastfeeding?

It is not recommended to take Ranitol while pregnant or breastfeeding as it may be harmful to the fetus or infant. Talk to your doctor before taking Ranitol during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

How long does it take for Ranitol to work?

Ranitol usually begins to work within an hour of taking it and continues to work for up to 12 hours.

Can I take Tylenol (acetaminophen) and Ranitol together?

Yes, it is safe to take Tylenol (acetaminophen) and Ranitol together.

Is Ranitol a laxative?

No, Ranitol is not a laxative.

How should I take Ranitol?

Ranitol should be taken with or without food as prescribed by a doctor. It is important to take Ranitol exactly as prescribed and not to take more or less than recommended.

Can I take Ranitol long-term?

Ranitol can be taken long-term if it is necessary and advised by your doctor. It may be necessary to take Ranitol long-term to treat certain conditions, such as Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome.

What foods should I avoid while taking Ranitol?

It is recommended to avoid eating any food that increases the production of acid in the stomach, such as alcohol, caffeine, spicy foods, and citrus fruits while taking Ranitol.

Can Ranitol cause weight gain?

No, there is no evidence to suggest that Ranitol is linked to weight gain.

Can I take Omeprazole and Ranitol together?

No, it is not recommended to take Omeprazole and Ranitol together as they are both H2 blockers that work by suppressing acid production in the stomach.

Can I take vitamin C while taking Ranitol?

Yes, it is safe to take vitamin C while taking Ranitol.

Does Ranitol raise blood pressure?

No, there is no evidence to suggest that Ranitol is linked to increased blood pressure.

Can I take Ranitol if I have diabetes?

Yes, it is safe to take Ranitol if you have diabetes.

Can I take ibuprofen and Ranitol together?

Yes, it is safe to take ibuprofen and Ranitol together.

Can I take aspirin and Ranitol together?

Yes, it is safe to take aspirin and Ranitol together.

Does Ranitol cause constipation?

Yes, Ranitol can cause constipation in some people. If you experience constipation while taking Ranitol, it is important to contact your doctor.

Can I take Pepto-Bismol and Ranitol together?

No, it is not recommended to take Pepto-Bismol and Ranitol together as they both contain bismuth, which can have adverse effects when taken together.

What is the best time of day to take Ranitol?

The best time of day to take Ranitol depends on the dosage prescribed by your doctor. However, as a general rule, it is best to take the medication after meals or before bedtime.

Can I take Axid and Ranitol together?

No, it is not recommended to take Axid and Ranitol together as they both contain similar active ingredients and can lead to an overdose.

Can Ranitol cause liver damage?

Ranitol is not known to cause liver damage; however, if you notice any signs or symptoms of liver damage, it is important to contact your doctor immediately.

Can I take synthroid and Ranitol together?

Yes, it is safe to take synthroid and Ranitol together.

Does Ranitol cause weight loss?

No, there is no evidence to suggest that Ranitol is linked to weight loss.

Can Ranitol increase anxiety?

Yes, Ranitol can increase anxiety in some people. If you experience anxiety while taking Ranitol, it is important to contact your doctor.

Can Ranitol cause diarrhea?

Yes, Ranitol can cause diarrhea in some people. If you experience diarrhea while taking Ranitol, it is important to contact your doctor.

Can I take Prilosec and Ranitol together?

No, it is not recommended to take Prilosec and Ranitol together as they both contain similar active ingredients and can lead to an overdose.

Can I take phentermine and Ranitol together?

Yes, it is safe to take phentermine and Ranitol together.

Can I take smellaid and Ranitol together?

Yes, it is safe to take smellaid and Ranitol together.

Can I take Zofran and Ranitol together?

Yes, it is safe to take Zofran and Ranitol together.

Can I take Allegra and Ranitol together?

Yes, it is safe to take Allegra and Ranitol together.

Can I take a multivitamin and Ranitol together?

Yes, it is safe to take a multivitamin and Ranitol together.

Can I take Tagamet and Ranitol together?

No, it is not recommended to take Tagamet and Ranitol together as they both contain similar active ingredients and can lead to an overdose.

Can Ranitol cause stomach pain?

Yes, Ranitol can cause stomach pain in some people. If you experience stomach pain while taking Ranitol, it is important to contact your doctor.

Can I take ibuprofen and Ranitol at the same time?

Yes, it is safe to take ibuprofen and Ranitol at the same time.

Can I take aspirin and Ranitol at the same time?

Yes, it is safe to take aspirin and Ranitol at the same time.

Can Ranitol cause headaches?

Yes, Ranitol can cause headaches in some people. If you experience headaches while taking Ranitol, it is important to contact your doctor.

Can I take Benadryl and Ranitol together?

Yes, it is safe to take Benadryl and Ranitol together.

Can I take Tylenol and Ranitol together?

Yes, it is safe to take Tylenol and Ranitol together.

Can I take Prevacid and Ranitol together?

No, it is not recommended to take Prevacid and Ranitol together as they both contain similar active ingredients and can lead to an overdose.

Can I take Ranitol and Pepcid AC together?

No, it is not recommended to take Ranitol and Pepcid AC together as they both contain similar active ingredients and can lead to an overdose.

Can Ranitol cause dizziness?

Yes, Ranitol can cause dizziness in some people. If you experience dizziness while taking Ranitol, it is important to contact your doctor.