Ranitidine

What is ranitidine?

Ranitidine (also known as Ranitic®, Zantac®) is an anti-acid drug. It works by reducing the amount of acid in the stomach. In Gastroesophageal reflux disease, the acid coming back up the oesophagus can cause pain and discomfort. Ranitidine therefore helps to reduce this by reducing the amount of acid that is present.

When should I give ranitidine?

Ranitidine may be given once, twice or three times each day. Your doctor will tell you how often to give it.

Give the medicine at about the same time(s) each day so that this becomes part of your child’s daily routine.

How much should I give?

Your doctor will work out the amount of ranitidine (the dose) that is right for your child. The dose will be shown on the medicine label.

What if my child is sick (vomits)?

• If your child is sick less than 30 minutes after having a dose of ranitidine, give them the same dose again.
• If your child is sick more than 30 minutes after having a dose of ranitidine, you do not need to give them another dose. Wait until the next normal dose.

What are the side effects of ranitidine?

Ranitidine is generally well tolerated by children but as with all drugs it can sometimes cause side effects. it is mainly removed from the body by the kidneys. Once given it usually lasts for about 12 hours in the blood stream.

Side effects include: Abdominal pain, constipation & nausea.

To read the full list of side effects & technical detail about ranitidine please read the following link: Summary of product characteristics