🔥💊 Ranitidine 150mg Tablet: A Trusted Remedy for Acid-Related Disorders
Ranitidine 150mg is an H2-receptor antagonist (also known as an H2 blocker) used primarily to reduce stomach acid production. It is widely prescribed for treating various conditions associated with excessive gastric acid, such as heartburn, ulcers, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Ranitidine helps relieve symptoms like burning sensation, acid regurgitation, and stomach pain, promoting healing of the stomach lining and esophagus.
🔬 Mechanism of Action
Ranitidine works by blocking histamine H2-receptors in the parietal cells of the stomach lining. These receptors normally stimulate the secretion of gastric acid. By inhibiting them, Ranitidine:
-
Reduces both basal and stimulated acid secretion
-
Decreases volume and acidity of gastric secretions
-
Promotes ulcer healing
-
Provides symptomatic relief in acid-peptic disorders
Its action begins within 1 hour of oral intake and can last up to 12 hours.
📌 Indications and Uses
Ranitidine 150mg is indicated for the prevention and treatment of:
-
Peptic ulcers (gastric and duodenal ulcers)
-
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
-
Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (a condition causing excessive acid production)
-
Dyspepsia and acid indigestion
-
Heartburn
-
Stress ulcers (prophylaxis in critically ill patients)
-
NSAID-associated ulcers
It may also be used to prevent acid aspiration during anesthesia (Mendelson’s syndrome) in surgical patients.
💊 Dosage and Administration
-
Standard adult dose: One 150mg tablet twice daily, typically in the morning and evening.
-
Alternatively, a single 300mg dose at bedtime may be used.
-
For mild symptoms or maintenance therapy, 150mg once daily may be sufficient.
-
Can be taken with or without food, though nighttime doses are particularly beneficial for ulcer healing.
Duration of therapy ranges from 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the condition and patient response.
⚠️ Precautions and Warnings
-
Do not use for long-term self-treatment without medical advice.
-
In older adults or patients with kidney disease, dosage adjustments may be necessary.
-
Ranitidine may mask symptoms of stomach cancer—evaluation is needed for persistent symptoms.
-
Should be avoided in patients with known allergy to ranitidine or other H2 blockers.
-
In pregnancy and breastfeeding, it should be used only if clearly needed and advised by a doctor.
🤒 Side Effects
Ranitidine is usually well-tolerated. Possible side effects include:
Common:
-
Headache
-
Constipation or diarrhea
-
Dizziness
-
Fatigue
Rare but serious:
-
Liver function abnormalities
-
Blood disorders (e.g., thrombocytopenia)
-
Confusion (especially in elderly or severely ill patients)
-
Rash or allergic reactions
Discontinue use and seek medical help if serious side effects occur.
🔄 Drug Interactions
Ranitidine may affect absorption of drugs that require stomach acid, such as:
-
Ketoconazole
-
Atazanavir
-
Iron salts
It can also interact with warfarin, theophylline, and glipizide, so caution is advised when taken together.
🧊 Storage Instructions
-
Store at room temperature (15°C–30°C)
-
Protect from light and moisture
-
Keep out of reach of children
📝 Conclusion
Ranitidine 150mg has long been a reliable treatment for acid-related gastrointestinal conditions, offering relief from heartburn, ulcers, and GERD. While generally safe and effective, it should be used under medical guidance, especially in long-term use. Due to recent concerns about impurities in some formulations, always ensure you are using approved and safe batches of the medication as directed by your healthcare provider.
Note: This information is intended for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.