What is Ranitidine Tablets ?
Ranitidine is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as H2 (histamine-2) blockers. It works by reducing the amount of acid produced by the stomach. This can help alleviate symptoms related to excess stomach acid, such as heartburn, acid indigestion, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Ranitidine Tablets Use
- Heartburn: This is a burning sensation in the chest, often accompanied by a sour taste in the mouth. It’s caused by stomach acid backing up into the esophagus.
- Acid Indigestion: This is discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen caused by excess stomach acid.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This is a chronic condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). It can lead to more severe symptoms like chest pain, difficulty swallowing, and chronic cough.
- Stomach Ulcers: Ranitidine may be used to help heal and prevent the recurrence of stomach ulcers.
Ranitidine Tablets – Mechanism of Action and Pharmacology
- Histamine Receptor Blockade: In the stomach lining, there are cells called parietal cells that release acid in response to various stimuli, including histamine. Histamine binds to specific receptors (H2 receptors) on these cells, triggering them to release acid. Ranitidine blocks these H2 receptors, preventing histamine from binding to them.
- Reduction of Acid Production: By blocking the H2 receptors, ranitidine reduces the amount of acid produced by the stomach. This is particularly important for conditions where excess stomach acid is a problem, such as heartburn, acid indigestion, GERD, and stomach ulcers.
- Duration of Action: Ranitidine provides relief for several hours after a single dose. This means it’s effective at controlling acid production over a sustained period, typically 12 hours or more.
Ranitidine Tablets – Side-effects
- Headache
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Nausea or vomiting
- Stomach pain
