Table of Contents
What is Zantac?
Zantac is classified under histamine-2 blockers, functioning by reducing the production of stomach acid.
Historically, Zantac was employed for the treatment and prevention of stomach and intestinal ulcers. It also addressed conditions where excessive stomach acid was produced, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.
Furthermore, Zantac was prescribed for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and related conditions where stomach acid refluxed into the esophagus, causing heartburn.
Due to the identification of a cancer-causing impurity in ranitidine medications, many of which contain Zantac, the FDA has requested the withdrawal of this medicine from the U.S. market.
Warnings
Zantac has been withdrawn from the U.S. market. Some information in this leaflet is retained for historical purposes.
Usage of Zantac may heighten the risk of pneumonia development. Pneumonia symptoms include chest pain, fever, breathlessness, and coughing up colored mucus. Discuss your specific pneumonia risk with your doctor.
Avoid Zantac if allergic to ranitidine.
Consult a doctor or pharmacist about safety in using Zantac for individuals with kidney disease, liver disease, or porphyria.
Heartburn may be mistaken for early heart attack symptoms. Seek immediate medical attention if chest pain spreads to the jaw or shoulder, accompanied by anxiety or lightheadedness.
Before taking this medicine
For those on prescription-strength Zantac: Consult your doctor about alternative treatments before discontinuing the medicine.
For those using over-the-counter (OTC) Zantac: Cease usage and consult a doctor or pharmacist for approved OTC stomach acid reducers.
Heartburn symptoms may resemble early heart attack signs. Seek emergency help if chest pain extends to the jaw or shoulder, causing anxiety or lightheadedness.
Before using OTC stomach acid reducers, seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist, especially if there are other medical conditions or allergies.
Consult a doctor before using OTC stomach acid medicine during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
How should I take Zantac?
As Zantac has been withdrawn in the U.S., contents in this leaflet serve historical purposes only.
Adhere to Zantac administration instructions on the label or as prescribed by your doctor.
Measure liquid medicine accurately using the provided dosing syringe or a medicine dose-measuring device, not a kitchen spoon.
Ulcer healing may take up to 8 weeks. Continue using the medication as directed; contact your doctor if symptoms persist beyond 6 weeks.
Antacids may be recommended by your doctor to alleviate pain. Follow their instructions on the type and timing of antacid use.
Store Zantac at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose promptly, but skip it if the next dose is imminent. Avoid doubling up on doses.
What happens if I overdose?
Overdose symptoms may include lack of coordination, lightheadedness, or fainting.
What to avoid
For those on prescription-strength Zantac: Do not cease without a doctor’s prescription for an alternative medication. Discuss treatment options promptly.
Avoid alcohol consumption, as it may increase the risk of stomach damage.
Zantac side effects
Get emergency medical help if signs of an allergic reaction to Zantac occur: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop using Zantac and contact your doctor if you experience:
- Stomach pain, loss of appetite
- Dark urine, jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)
- Fever, chills, mucus-laden cough, chest pain, breathlessness
- Fast or slow heart rate
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Skin or hair issues
Common Zantac side effects may include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, or constipation.
This is not an exhaustive list; consult your doctor for medical advice on side effects.
What other drugs will affect Zantac?
Several drugs may interact with ranitidine. Inform your doctor about all current medications, including prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, and herbal products.
