ranitidine bismuth citrate Health Article

Generic name(s):

ranitidine bismuth citrate

Brand name(s):

Tritec

What is the most important information I should know about ranitidine bismuth citrate?

Ranitidine bismuth citrate was withdrawn from the U.S. market in 1998.

Do not stop taking this medication unless your doctor tells you it is all right to do so, even if you are feeling better. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely treated.

What is ranitidine bismuth citrate?

Ranitidine bismuth citrate was withdrawn from the U.S. market in 1998.

Ranitidine is in a class of drugs called histamine receptor antagonists. Ranitidine works by decreasing the amount of acid your stomach produces.

Bismuth is a mild antibiotic.

Citrate is a form of salt.

Ranitidine bismuth citrate is used to decrease the amount of acid in the stomach and to treat Helicobacter pylori, a bacterial infection involved in causing stomach ulcers. Ranitidine bismuth citrate is most commonly used with clarithromycin (Biaxin), an antibiotic, to treat this infection.

Ranitidine bismuth citrate may also be used for conditions other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking ranitidine bismuth citrate?

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have

• kidney disease;

• liver disease; or

• acute porphyria.

You may not be able to take ranitidine bismuth citrate, or you may require a lower dose or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Ranitidine bismuth citrate is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is unknown whether ranitidine bismuth citrate will harm an unborn baby. Do not take ranitidine bismuth citrate without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. It is also not known whether ranitidine bismuth citrate passes into breast milk. Do not take ranitidine bismuth citrate without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take ranitidine bismuth citrate?

Take ranitidine bismuth citrate exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Take each dose with a full glass of water.

Ranitidine bismuth citrate is usually taken twice a day (every 12 hours) for 4 weeks. You will probably also take the antibiotic clarithromycin (Biaxin) three times a day for the first 2 weeks of therapy. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Do not stop taking this medication unless your doctor tells you it is all right to do so, even if you are feeling better. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely treated. Store ranitidine bismuth citrate at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention.

Symptoms of a ranitidine bismuth citrate overdose are not known but might include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, increased saliva production, shaking, difficulty breathing, and a fast heartbeat.

What should I avoid while taking ranitidine bismuth citrate?

There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activity while taking ranitidine bismuth citrate unless your doctor directs otherwise.