What is Ranitidine commonly known as?

Ranitidine is commonly known as Zantac. It is classified as an H2 receptor antagonist, which works by reducing the amount of stomach acid produced by the glands in the lining of the stomach. This medication is typically used to treat conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcers, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.

The significance of recognizing Ranitidine as Zantac is rooted in its historical use and brand recognition. It was one of the first H2 blockers developed and was widely prescribed, leading to a strong association between the drug and its brand name among both healthcare professionals and patients.

Understanding the brand name Zantac is essential not just for identification but also for comprehending its pharmacological context and clinical applications. While other medications listed, such as Tagamet, Pepcid, and Prilosec, are related to acid suppression, they are not synonymous with Ranitidine. Tagamet refers to cimetidine, Pepcid refers to famotidine, and Prilosec is the brand name for omeprazole, which is a proton pump inhibitor, functioning differently than H2 antagonists.