Ranitidine syrup is a prescription medication that may be used to treat a variety of gastrointestinal disturbances leading to irritation of the esophagus. Some of the specific uses for this medication include the treatment of erosive esophagitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease, or Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. In some cases, ranitidine syrup may be used to treat ulcers in the stomach or small intestine. Any specific questions or concerns about the potential uses of ranitidine syrup on an individual basis should be discussed with a doctor or other medical professional.
Erosive esophagitis is one of the primary medical conditions typically treated with ranitidine syrup. This condition causes the esophagus to become red, irritated, and swollen. Symptoms of erosive esophagitis may include pain, difficulty swallowing, and a feeling that something is stuck in the throat.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, commonly referred to as GERD, is frequently treated with ranitidine syrup. This disease causes stomach acid to back up into the esophagus, often causing a variety of uncomfortable symptoms. GERD may lead to heartburn, chest pain, or the regurgitation of food or liquid. This regurgitation, known as acid reflux, can cause pain in the throat as well as difficulty swallowing.
Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is a medical condition that causes tumors to grow in the upper portion of the small intestine, the pancreas, or the lymph nodes located near the pancreas. These tumors secrete a type of hormone that causes the stomach to produce an excessive amount of acid. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, nausea, or digestive tract bleeding. Ranitidine syrup may be used as part of the treatment program for this disorder.
Ulcers, or open sores, affecting the stomach or small intestine may be treated with ranitidine syrup on a short-term basis. The discomfort associated with an ulcer is often described as a gnawing or burning feeling and can be mistaken for indigestion, heartburn, or even hunger. Weight loss may occur due a loss of appetite, although some may experience weight gain due to eating more often in an effort to relieve symptoms associated with an ulcer.
Some of the potential side effects of ranitidine syrup may mimic some of the conditions it is designed to treat and should be reported to a medical professional for further medical evaluation. Some of the most commonly reported symptoms include nausea, abdominal pain, and the development of a skin rash. More serious side effects may include facial swelling and difficulty breathing, symptoms that require immediate medical attention.