Ranitidine is a medication belonging to the class of H2 receptor antagonists, commonly used to treat conditions related to excess stomach acid production, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcers, and gastritis. It works by blocking the action of histamine on the stomach’s acid-producing cells, thereby reducing the amount of acid produced. This helps alleviate symptoms like heartburn, acid reflux, and indigestion, and promotes healing of ulcerated areas in the stomach and esophagus.

One of the key benefits of ranitidine is its effectiveness in providing rapid relief from symptoms associated with excessive stomach acid. It starts working within an hour of administration and provides relief for up to 12 hours, making it particularly useful for managing symptoms both during the day and at night. Moreover, ranitidine is well-tolerated by most individuals and has a lower risk of side effects compared to other acid-reducing medications. It is available over-the-counter in lower doses for short-term use and in higher doses by prescription for more severe conditions.