What is "ranitidine"

n. (context pharmacology English) A furan which blocks the histamine H2-receptors, to prevent the secretion of gastric acid.

n. a histamine blocker and antacid (trade name Zantac) used to treat peptic ulcers and gastritis and esophageal reflux [syn: Zantac]

Ranitidine, sold under the trade name Zantac among others, is a medication that decreases stomach acid production. It is commonly used in treatment of peptic ulcer disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and Zollinger–Ellison syndrome. There is also tentative evidence of benefit for hives. It can be taken by mouth, by injection into a muscle, or into a vein.

Common side effects include headaches and pain or burning if given by injection. Serious side effects may include liver problems, a slow heart rate, pneumonia, and the potential of masking stomach cancer. It is also linked to an increased risk of Clostridium difficile colitis. It is generally safe in pregnancy. Ranitidine is an H histamine receptor antagonist that works by blocking histamine and thus decreasing the amount of acid released by cells of the stomach.

Ranitidine was discovered in 1976 at Glaxo Pharmaceuticals, now a part of GlaxoSmithKline. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines, the most important medications needed in a basic health system. It is available as a generic medication. The wholesale price in the developing world is about 0.01 to 0.05 USD per pill. In the United States it is about 0.05 USD per dose.