Follow only the directions given to you by your doctor. Do not take more or less of a dose than directed. This medication is commonly taken once or twice a day, with or without food. If you take this medication only once a day, it is commonly taken after the evening meal or before bedtime.

Ensure you measure your dose using a measuring spoon specifically meant for medicine; this is to ensure you get the proper dose; avoid using a house hold spoon.

Do not use Zantac Syrup (ranitidine)

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to ranitidine or other acid reducers, or if you have trouble or pain swallowing food, if you have vomiting with blood, bloody or black stools, kidney disease (unless otherwise directed by a doctor), or if you are using another acid reducer.

Dose adjustment or special precautions may be required

To ensure this medication is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have had heartburn for longer than 3 months; heartburn with lightheadedness, sweating, or dizziness; chest or shoulder pain with shortness of breath, sweating, pain spreading to arms, neck or shoulders, or lightheadedness; frequent chest pain; frequent wheezing, particularly with heartburn; unexplained weight loss, nausea or vomiting; or stomach pain.

Risks

Zantac Syrup should only be used during pregnancy if the mother clearly needs it; discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before using this medication if you are pregnant.

This drug passes into breast milk; speak with your doctor about the risks and benefits before using this medication if you are breast feeding.

Tell your doctor about all medications, all medical conditions, and all drug allergies you may have before proceeding with treatment.

Common side effects of Zantac Syrup (ranitidine) may include:

• Headache,

• constipation, or

• diarrhea.

The above side effects should not alarm you.

Serious side effects of Zantac Syrup (ranitidine) may include:

• Blurred vision,

• mental/mood changes,

• easy bleeding/bruising, or

• severe tiredness.

If you have any of the above side effects, contact your doctor right away.

Please note this is not a complete list of side effects. Not everyone experiences side effects; they are not guaranteed. If you do have side effects and they become unmanageable, consult your doctor about alternate medications.

Contact your doctor if you notice signs of…

infection: sore throat that doesn't go away, fever, chills.

What other medical conditions may this medication help treat?

This medication may also be used to help treat stomach and intestinal ulcers while also preventing them from coming back once healed. It may also help with Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, bleeding from stomach, and a type of stomach irritation called gastritis.

What if I miss a dose?

Take the miss dose as soon as you remember or skip it if your next dose is approaching soon. Do not attempt to make up for a miss dose by doubling up on dosages.

What other medical conditions may be important to mention to my doctor?

Other medical conditions you should tell your doctor about include blood disorders, immune system problems, kidney or liver problems, lung disease, and any other stomach issues you may have. You should tell your doctor about all medical conditions that you currently have before starting treatment.

How old do you have to be to use Zantac Syrup?

Children at least 3 years old can use this medication. It should only be given to a child under the medical advice of a doctor.