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Infant Zantac

When treating certain conditions related to the esophagus, stomach, and intestines in an infant, Zantac EFFERdose tablets or Zantac syrup may be used. These prescription forms of Zantac have been approved to treat ulcers, GERD, and erosive esophagitis in children as young as one month old. The dosing for infant Zantac is based on factors such as the infant's weight and the condition being treated. Do not give over-the-counter Zantac to infants.

 

Infant Zantac: An Overview

Many medications have little or no information available concerning use in infants. Zantac® (ranitidine hydrochloride), however, is a medication that has been studied in infants. Zantac, in fact, has been approved for use in children and infants as young as one month old. Zantac comes in two prescription forms that are easy to give to infants and children:
 
  • Zantac EFFERdose® tablets -- these tablets have a light citrus flavor and are designed to be dissolved in water before giving them to your child.
     
  • Zantac syrup -- Zantac syrup is peppermint-flavored.
     
Always discuss all medications for your child with your infant's healthcare provider. Do not give over-the-counter Zantac to an infant. It is not the right strength and is available only in tablets that must be swallowed whole.
 

Infant Zantac: Uses

Zantac has several approved uses for infants, including
 
 
  • Treating infant ulcers (including duodenal ulcers and stomach ulcers) and preventing these ulcers from returning once healed
     
  • Treating infant GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)
     
  • Treating infant erosive esophagitis (damage to the esophagus, often caused by stomach acid).
     
(Infant Zantac Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;