Zantac

Zantac, known generically as ranitidine, is a medication classified as an H2 blocker, primarily used to treat and prevent ulcers and heartburn. It works by reducing the amount of acid produced by the stomach. Zantac was first introduced in 1981 by GlaxoSmithKline and became one of the most widely used medications for acid-related conditions.

The medication is available both over-the-counter and by prescription, with the latter often used for more severe conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Zantac is typically taken orally, either as a tablet or liquid, and its effects can last for up to 12 hours.

In 2019, Zantac and its generic equivalents faced significant scrutiny due to the discovery of low levels of N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), a potential carcinogen, in some batches. This led to recalls and the eventual withdrawal of the medication from the market by the manufacturer and regulatory agencies worldwide, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Patients who were using Zantac for chronic conditions were advised to consult their healthcare providers for alternative treatments. Common alternatives include other H2 blockers like famotidine (Pepcid) or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as omeprazole (Prilosec).

The withdrawal of Zantac highlighted the importance of ongoing monitoring and testing of medications to ensure their safety and efficacy. Despite its withdrawal, Zantac played a significant role in the management of acid-related conditions for nearly four decades.