Zantac is for What: 10 Things You Didn't Know
Zantac, a popular medication used to treat heartburn and acid reflux, has been on the market for over 40 years. But what exactly is Zantac for? Here are 10 things you didn't know:
- Zantac is a histamine-2 receptor antagonist (H2RA). This means that it works by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical that stimulates the stomach to produce acid.
- Zantac is used to treat heartburn and acid reflux. Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest that occurs when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus. Acid reflux is a condition in which stomach acid flows back into the esophagus on a regular basis.
- Zantac is also used to treat ulcers. Ulcers are sores that develop on the lining of the stomach or duodenum.
- Zantac is available in both over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription forms. The OTC form is available in strengths of 150 mg and 300 mg. The prescription form is available in strengths of 150 mg, 300 mg, and 600 mg.
- Zantac is generally safe and well-tolerated. The most common side effects are headache, diarrhea, and constipation.
- Zantac should not be taken by people who are allergic to it. It should also not be taken by people who have kidney disease or liver disease.
- Zantac may interact with other medications. It is important to tell your doctor about all of the medications you are taking before starting Zantac.
- Zantac is not a cure for heartburn or acid reflux. It is only a treatment that can help to relieve symptoms.
- Lifestyle changes can help to reduce heartburn and acid reflux. These changes include eating smaller meals, avoiding spicy or fatty foods, and losing weight.
- If you have severe heartburn or acid reflux, you should see a doctor. There may be an underlying medical condition that is causing your symptoms.
Table 1: Zantac Doses
Dose |
Form |
Use |
150 mg |
OTC |
Heartburn, acid reflux |
300 mg |
OTC |
Heartburn, acid reflux, ulcers |
150 mg |
Prescription |
Heartburn, acid reflux, ulcers |
300 mg |
Prescription |
Heartburn, acid reflux, ulcers |
600 mg |
Prescription |
Heartburn, acid reflux, ulcers |
Table 2: Zantac Side Effects
Side Effect |
Frequency |
Headache |
Common |
Diarrhea |
Common |
Constipation |
Common |
Nausea |
Uncommon |
Vomiting |
Uncommon |
Dizziness |
Uncommon |
Table 3: Zantac Drug Interactions
Drug |
Interaction |
Antacids |
May reduce the effectiveness of Zantac |
Aspirin |
May increase the risk of bleeding |
Blood thinners |
May increase the risk of bleeding |
NSAIDs |
May increase the risk of bleeding |
Warfarin |
May increase the risk of bleeding |
Table 4: Lifestyle Changes to Reduce Heartburn and Acid Reflux
Change |
Benefit |
Eat smaller meals |
Reduces pressure on the stomach |
Avoid spicy or fatty foods |
Relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter |
Lose weight |
Reduces pressure on the stomach |
Elevate your head when sleeping |
Prevents stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus |
Quit smoking |
Smoking relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter |
Tips and Tricks
- Take Zantac with a full glass of water.
- Take Zantac at the same time each day.
- Do not take Zantac more often than directed.
- Talk to your doctor if you experience any side effects from Zantac.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Do not take Zantac if you are allergic to it.
- Do not take Zantac if you have kidney disease or liver disease.
- Do not take Zantac with other medications that may interact with it.
- Do not take Zantac for more than 14 days without talking to your doctor.
How to Step-by-Step Approach
- Talk to your doctor about your heartburn or acid reflux symptoms.
- Your doctor may recommend taking Zantac.
- Take Zantac as directed by your doctor.
- Make lifestyle changes to reduce heartburn and acid reflux.
- If your symptoms do not improve, talk to your doctor.