Zantac
® (
ranitidine hydrochloride) is a prescription medicine used for treating
GERD (
gastroesophageal reflux disease), ulcers, pathological hypersecretory conditions, and erosive esophagitis. An over-the-counter version is also available to treat
heartburn, indigestion, and sour stomach.
There are several different forms of Zantac: tablets, EFFERdose® tablets (which are dissolved in water), and a syrup. Zantac tablets and syrup are typically taken one to four times a day, depending on the specific product and the condition being treated.
Zantac works by blocking histamine in the stomach. Since histamine causes more acid to be produced, blocking this histamine receptor can help reduce the amount of acid the stomach produces. This action relieves many of the symptoms related to conditions affecting the esophagus, stomach, and intestines.
(Click Zantac to find out when and how to take Zantac, for more information on how the medication works, and to learn about the potential side effects.)
