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Zantac |
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What is Zantac and why is it prescribed? Zantac is prescribed for the short-term treatment (4 to 8 weeks) of active duodenal ulcer and active benign gastric ulcer, and as maintenance therapy for gastric or duodenal ulcer, at a reduced dosage, after the ulcer has healed. It is also used for the treatment of conditions in which the stomach produces too much acid, for gastroesophageal reflux disease, and for healing erosive esophagitis. Some doctors prescribe Zantac to prevent damage to the stomach and duodenum from long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Indocin and Motrin, and to treat bleeding of the stomach and intestine. Zantac is also sometimes prescribed for stress-induced ulcers. Zantac helps to prevent the recurrence of gastric or duodenal ulcers and aids the healing of ulcers that do occur. How should you take Zantac? Follow your doctors directions for taking Zantac. Make sure you follow the diet your doctor recommends. Dissolve "Efferdose" tablets and granules in 6 to 8 ounces of water before taking them. You can take an antacid for pain while you are taking Zantac. If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take two doses at the same time. Store Zantac at room temperature in the container it came in, tightly closed and away from moist places and direct light. Keep Zantac Syrup from freezing. Are there any Zantac side effects? Zantac side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Zantac side effects may include headache. Less common or rare Zantac side effects may include abdominal discomfort and pain, agitation, changes in blood count, changes in liver function, constipation, depression, diarrhea, difficulty sleeping, dizziness, hair loss, hallucinations, heart block, hepatitis, hypersensitivity reactions, inflamed blood vessels, inflammation of the pancreas, involuntary movements, irregular heartbeat, jaundice, joint pain, muscle pain, nausea and vomiting, rapid heartbeat, rash, reduced white blood cells, reversible mental confusion, severe allergic reactions, sleepiness, slow heartbeat, swollen face and throat, vague feeling of bodily discomfort, vertigo, and yellow eyes and skin. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Zantac? If Zantac is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Zantac with Alcohol, Blood-thinning drugs (such as Coumadin), Diazepam (Valium), Diltiazem (Cardizem), Enoxacin (Penetrex), Glipizide (Glucotrol), Glyburide (DiaBeta, Micronase), Itraconazole (Sporanox), Ketoconazole (Nizoral), Metformin (Glucophage), Nifedipine (Procardia), Phenytoin (Dilantin), Procainamide (Procan SR), Sucralfate (Carafate), Theophylline (Theo-Dur), or Triazolam (Halcion). Are there any special warnings about Zantac? A stomach malignancy could be present, even if your symptoms have been relieved by Zantac. If you have kidney or liver disease, Zantac should be used with caution. If you have phenylketonuria, you should be aware that the "Efferdose" tablets and granules contain phenylalanine. |
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