Or where I can go to find out? I can't seem to find anything about this particular drug. My dad has been taking it regularly for the past 3 months, he gets it over the counter from the pharmacy but I have just discovered that you shouldn't buy a second pack without consulting a Doctor it says so in the pack leaflet. He takes it for very bad heart burn. Does anyone know if this drug is dangerous with long term use? it doesn't say on the leaflet other then known side effects from normal usage.
2006-12-20 08:42:01 · 11 answers · asked by Smoochy Poochy 6 in Health ➔ Other - Health
I have made an appointment for him but he is so stubborn I will be suprised if he keeps it, I have my mum on his case too so hopefully we will get him there.
2006-12-21 00:16:02 · update #1
The reason it says not to buy a second pack withoug consulting your doctor is because the acid that is causing your dads heartburn could be burning his esophagus. He may need a stronger prescription that not only controls the heartburn but also helps repair the esophagus.
Ranitidine has been effective in preventing ulcer recurrence when given in low doses for prolonged periods of time. In doses higher than that used in ulcer treatment, ranitidine has been helpful in treating heartburn and in healing ulcer and inflammation of the esophagus resulting from acid reflux (reflux esophagitis).
Minor side effects include constipation, diarrhea, fatigue, headache, insomnia, muscle pain, nausea, and vomiting. Major side effects are rare; they include: agitation, anemia, confusion, depression, easy bruising or bleeding, hallucinations, hair loss, irregular heartbeat, rash, visual changes, and yellowing of the skin or eyes.
You really should convince him to go to the doctor.
2006-12-20 08:48:51 · answer #1 · answered by Mom of Three 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Its fairly safe when taken correctly, thats why its available to buy off presciption too. Many people take this drug long term. Be sure to ask pharmacist / GP if taking other medication though.
The reason he should see a GP when buying over the counter is that the dr needs to rule out any underlying causes of the heartburn. For instance symptoms of stomach cancer (like persistant heartburn) may be covered up if a person self treats. The drug itself is safe though.
2006-12-20 08:47:51 · answer #2 · answered by ames 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If your Dad needs it that regularly he may want to go see a Dr just to make sure there is nothing else going on besides heartburn.
Zantac does contain an antihistamine so he does need to be careful taking other medications. Some medications combined with this particular drug can have some pretty ugly side effects. If I were to take any antacid with the medication I am on right now it would stop my heart. Your Dad needs to be very cautious with this and all medications he is on.
2006-12-20 09:27:15 · answer #3 · answered by hiscinders 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The drug ranitidine is also know by the brand name Zantac. It has been around over 20 years, and many people have taken it for many years. The warning refers to the fact if his symptoms are persisting he could have a serious medical problem rather than just having heartburn. The medication could improve the symptoms of serious health conditions like esophageal or gastric cancer.
2006-12-20 08:51:53 · answer #4 · answered by Jeffrey P 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Definitely YES it does. Both drugs and alcohol taken in excess especially over a number of yrs causes brain cells to die which obviously affects the memory to differing degrees depending on how long the stub stance and alcohol abuse has taken place for and the amount consumed. The memory usually gets better as the yrs pass but you have short lapses in memory where you can't remember past incidents your forgetfulness however will get better. Good Luck In Staying Clean.
2016-03-13 09:00:23 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Your dad should see his doctor, its not good to be taking it long term. Its a serious drug and should not be mucked around with. There are other ways to treat indigestion (he might have a H Pylori infection which needs treating), but long term it should be done under a doctors supervision.
The web site below gives info about ranitidine (Zantac);
2006-12-20 08:48:20 · answer #6 · answered by huggz 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I had to have a course a few months back, i was suffering really bad with heart burn and acid reflux, i was taking them for 2 months. Im not aware of any side effects but im sure they are meant to be took as a one off course and not a long term thing
2006-12-20 08:50:46 · answer #7 · answered by Clarky 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
the drug is not dangerous and can be used long term it puts a coating on the stomach lining to stop gastric reflux which causes heart burn it very good due to the lack of sideaffects it has and it can be used long term.otherwise known as zantac.
2006-12-20 08:47:13 · answer #8 · answered by thereisonlyonebrightstar 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The reason it says not to buy a second pack is that if you need a second pack it suggests a long term or more serious problem that usually requires a medical opinion, if only to confirm that it is indeed only heartburn and that he is ok to carry on taking it if it is working for him.
2006-12-20 09:49:49 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
just looked it up in my medicines and drugs encyclopedia, apparently there arent any side effects, as the effects will leave as soon as the drug has left. is that for the ulcers? i would definately go see a dr anyway, for peace of mind if anything else, he may need stronger meds to help him.
2006-12-20 08:53:16 · answer #10 · answered by sausagejockey 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋