Ranitidine Explained: What It Does for Acid Reflux and Ulcers

A burning sensation in the chest after meals, or stomach discomfort caused by ulcers, affects many individuals. If this is something you have experienced, you’re part of a large company. Acid reflux and stomach ulcers plague millions worldwide. One of the medications that have long been prescribed to alleviate such issues is Ranitidine.

But how does ranitidine work, anyway? Why was it so often prescribed for acid problems? Let’s look at the ranitidine tablet uses and other such details. 

What Is Ranitidine?

Ranitidine is a drug that decreases the amount of acid produced by your stomach. It is a class of drugs known as H2 blockers or histamine-2 receptor antagonists. These medications are found to inhibit a natural chemical in the body (histamine) which signals your stomach to produce acid.

Excess acid in the stomach is responsible for acid reflux, heartburn, and stomach ulcers. Reducing acid, ranitidine alleviates the symptoms and facilitates healing of the stomach lining.

How Does It Help with Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid is channeled back into the food pipe (esophagus). This produces a burning sensation in the chest, commonly referred to as heartburn. In some cases, it even makes it difficult to sleep or eat.

Ranitidine operates by decreasing stomach acid, so there is less acid to travel up. This relaxes the burning and discomfort. It also decreases the risk of injury to the lining of the esophagus, which may occur if acid reflux persists for an extended period.

Ranitidine and Stomach Ulcers

A stomach ulcer is an open sore on the lining of the stomach or the beginning of the small intestine. The sores usually result from excessive acid or infection (from the H. pylori bacteria).

Ranitidine works to heal ulcers by reducing the acid that makes the sore inflamed. With reduced acid, the ulcer has an opportunity to heal. In other instances, physicians might also prescribe antibiotics together with ranitidine when an ulcer is a result of bacteria.

When and How to Take Ranitidine?

Ranitidine is typically taken once or twice daily, before meals or at bedtime. The dosage is determined by your condition and how serious it is. Some take it for a few weeks or months for occasional heartburn, while others take it long-term to treat ulcers.

It is really necessary to adhere to the correct dosage and time as instructed by a healthcare professional. The improper consumption can diminish its efficiency.

Is Ranitidine still being used?

There have also been concerns in recent years over safety issues associated with ranitidine. It is said that it contains some toxic elements but it does not stop the popularity of ranitidine medicine. If you are now using or planning to use ranitidine, it is always better to consult with a medical professional to know what is safe and right for you.

Ranitidine has been a popular medicine to treat acid reflux and stomach ulcers. It operates by lowering stomach acid, which provides relief from burning sensations and allows the body to heal. Although its use has varied in modern times, knowing how it works can still assist you in making better health decisions.