How does it work?

Ranitidine is one of a group of medicines known as the H2-receptor antagonists. It acts by blocking receptors which are present on the cells in the stomach lining. Normally a substance called histamine binds to these receptors. Histamine is a chemical produced throughout the body and has many effects. When histamine binds to H2 receptors on cells in the stomach lining it causes them to produce acid. When ranitidine is taken, it binds to the H2 receptors, replacing some of the histamine. As a result, the amount of stomach acid produced by these cells is decreased. Stomach acid is present as a normal part of the digestive process. Normally the lining of the stomach and duodenum (an area of the intestine directly after the stomach) have a protective layer which resists acid attack. If this layer is damaged, or large amounts of stomach acid are formed a peptic ulcer can develop. In the presence of ranitidine, there will be less acid in the stomach and duodenum. As a result, ranitidine helps the healing of ulcers and relieves the pain. This medicine also contains bismuth. Bismuth acts at the site of the ulcer by coating the ulcer and protecting it from the stomach acid. This medication may also be given together with antibiotics to destroy bacteria (Helicobacter pylori) that, if present in the stomach, cause ulcers.

What is it used for?

Bacteria of the gut that can cause ulcers

Peptic ulcers

Warning!

This medicine may mask the signs of stomach cancer and so may delay diagnosis of this condition. Particular care is required in people whose symptoms change and in those who are middle aged or older.

This medicine is not to be used for long periods of time, as it may cause more adverse effects.

Use with caution in

Breastfeeding

Decreased kidney function

Life long inherited blood diseases which can cause a variety of symptoms, including mental health problems (porphyrias)

Pregnancy

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

The safety of this medicine during pregnancy has not been established. The manufacturer therefore advises that it should be avoided during pregnancy. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

There is no information available about the safety of this medicine during breastfeeding. For this reason, the manufacturer states that it should not be used during breastfeeding. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

Black tongue and faeces

Rash

Diarrhoea

Pain in the muscles (myalgia)

Abnormal enlargement of breasts in the male (gynaecomastia)

Dizziness

Blood disorders

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

How can this medicine affect other medicines?

The absorption of tetracycline is reduced. This may render the tetracycline less effective.

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