Zantac 75

Zantac 75 or Ranitidine belongs to a group of drugs called histamine-2 blockers. This medication works by reducing the amount of acid that the stomach produces. It is used to treat ulcers as well as preventing them. It is also used to treat conditions such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome where the stomach produces too much acid. Zantac is also used in treating gastroesophageal reflux diseasep, acid reflux or GERD.   

As mentioned, Zantac or Ranitidine is an H2 receptor antagonist. It acts to decrease the production of stomach acid by blocking the histamine H2 receptors that are found in the cells that lines the stomach.

Histamine is a natural body chemical that normally binds these receptors which causes the cells to produce stomach acid.

By blocking the H2 receptors, Zantac helps prevent histamine from binding to them. Thus stops the cells from producing stomach acid. By reducing the stomach acid, Zantac (Ranitidine) helps relieve the symptoms of indigestion and heartburn.  

One Zantac 75 tablet should be taken with a glass or water as soon as you have the symptoms of heartburn. If symptoms are not relieved after one hour, take another tablet. It is advised not to take more than 4 tablets in 24 hours however if symptoms still persists, it is better to seek medical attention as soon as possible or inform your physician. 

Zantac 75 Side effects 

Zantac 75 or what is commonly known as Ranitidine is a medication that helps block H2 receptors. This is used in the treatment of gastrointestinal conditions. This drug helps in decreasing the acid that the stomach is secreting in response to stimulus like food. However, there are many side effects of this medication and they may vary depending on the patient’s response. 

The most commons side effects of Zantac 75 are diarrhea, headache, constipation, nausea and stomach upset. However, if other side effects come out other than the common ones, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Immediately inform your doctor if the following side effects appear: 

• Rash, hives, itching, tightness in the chest, swelling of the mouth, face, lips or tongue 
• Difficulty in breathing 
• Unusual hoarseness 
• Confusion 
• Changes in the amount of urine produced, dark colored urine 
• Fast, irregular heartbeat 
• Fever, chills 
• Sore throat 
• Severe or persistent headache 
• Stomach aches 
• Hallucinations 
• Yellowing of the eyes or skin 
• Unusual bleeding or bruising 

If other severe forms of side effects are experienced, notify your physician immediately or seek emergency medical attention. Early detection of these side effects will also mean prompt intervention so do watch out for other side effects.