Zantac

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Prescription Drug Information, Side Effects & Interactions for Zantac

Uses
This medication blocks acid in the stomach. It is used to treat and prevent ulcers, to treat gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD) and to treat conditions due to high acid secretion.

Notes

For best results, this medication is used along with lifestyle changes such as stress reduction, exercise and dietary changes.
Talk to your health care professional about changes you may benefit from.
Laboratory tests will be done periodically to monitor the medication effects and to prevent side effects.

Storage

Store at room temperature below 86 degrees F (30 degrees C) away from heat and light.
Premixed IV bags may also be refrigerated.

Zantac

How To Use

HOW TO USE THIS MEDICATION: This medication is given as an injection into a muscle (IM) or infused into a vein (IV) if one is unable to take oral medication.
Premixed bags are for IV use only.
Use this as prescribed.
Do not increase your dose, use this more often than directed or stop using this without first consulting your doctor.

Side Effects

Headache, stomach upset or irritation or itching at the injection site may occur.
If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor.
Notify your doctor if you develop a skin rash, rapid heart rate, swelling of the face, breathing trouble, unusual weakness or vision changes while using this medication.
Notify your doctor immediately if you notice black, tarry stools or "coffee ground" vomit which may indicate bleeding.
If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor if you have any pre-existing liver disease, kidney disease, heart rhythm disorders or if you have any allergies.
This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy.
Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
Since small amounts of this medication are found in breast milk, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as remembered; do not use it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule.
Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all over-the-counter and prescription medication you may use especially antacids, anti-anxiety medication, procainamide, theophylline, blood thinners, oral medication for diabetes, ketoconazole and itraconzaole.
This medication is available in both prescription and over-the-counter formulations.
Do not use both at the same time.
Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.