Ranitidine inhibits gastric acid production and is used in the treatment of peptic ulcer disease (PUD) and gastroesophageal reflux (GERD). Ranitidine can be used along side other antihistamines to treat skin conditions. Common brand names are Aceptin, Aciloc, Aciran, Ameket, Contracid, Danitin, Entac, Loracid, Ranitab, Raxide, Zantac, and Zidaxim. Ranitidine is classified as a Histamine H2 receptor antagonist and an Antiulcer.

Indication for Ranitidine

Ranitidine is used for short-term treatment of active duodenal ulcer. It is also used in the prevention of duodenal ulcer recurrence. Ranitidine can be used for the treatment of active benign gastric ulcer, pathologic GI hypersecretory conditions, acute gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and erosive esophagitis.

Routes and Dosage of Ranitidine

Duodenal, Gastric Ulcers, GERD

PO: ADULTS, ELDERLY: 150 mg 2 times per day or 300 mg at bedtime. MAINTENANCE: 150 mg at bedtime. CHILDREN: 2-4 mg/kg/day in divided doses 2 times per day. Maximum: 300 mg per day.

Erosive Esophagitis

PO: ADULTS, ELDERLY: 150 mg 4 times a day. MAINTENANCE: 150mg 2 times a day or 300 mg at bedtime. CHILDREN: 4-10 mg/kg/day in 2 divided doses. Maximum: 600 mg per day.

Hypersecretory Conditions

PO: ADULTS, ELDERLY: 150 mg 2 times a day. May increase up to 6g per day.

Usual Parenteral Dosage

IV/IM: ADULTS, ELDERLY: 50mg per dose every 6-8 hours. Maximum: 400mg per day. CHILDREN: 2-4 mg/kg/day in divided doses every 6-8 hours. Maximum: 200mg per day.

Usual Neonatal Dose

IV: Initially, 1.5 mg/kg/dose, then 1.5-2 mg/kg/day in divided doses every 12 hours.

PO: 2 mg/kg/day in divided doses every 12 hours.

Dosage in Renal Impairment

PO: 150 mg every 24 hours.

IM/IV: 50mg every 18-24 hours.

Action of Ranitidine

Ranitidine inhibits histamine action at the H2 receptors of gastric parietal cells. It inhibits gastric acid secretion and reduces volume and hydrogen ion concentration of gastric juice.

Side Effects and Adverse Reactions of Ranitidine

Side Effects of Ranitidine

  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Headache

Adverse Reactions of

  • Reversible hepatitis
  • Blood dyscrasias

Nursing Considerations for Clients Taking Ranitidine

  • Obtain baseline hepatic and renal function tests.
  • Monitor serum AST, ALT levels.
  • Assess mental status in elderly.
  • Antacids may decrease absorption.
  • May decrease absorption of ketoconazole.
  • Give without regards to meals, best given after meals or at bedtime.
  • Do not administer within 1 hour of magnesium- or aluminum- containing antacids.

Patient Teachings for Clients Taking

  • Smoking decreases effectiveness of medication.
  • Do not take medicine within 1 hour of magnesium- or aluminum- containing antacids.
  • Transient burning or itching may occur with IV administration.
  • Report headache.
  • Avoid alcohol and aspirin.