CONTRIBUTOR(S): Vetstream Ltd, Julien Bazelle,
Medication: Ranitidine
Your cat has been prescribed ranitidine to reduce their stomach acid.
ℹ️Key points: • Histamine (H2) receptor antagonist. Decreases stomach acid. • This drug is not licensed for use in dogs or cats. Your veterinarian will advise you as to off-license use of this medication. • Dosage: two to three times daily.
ℹ️This information sheet is designed to help answer commonly asked questions and help you give the medication safely and effectively to your pet. It does not contain all available information for this medication. If you have other questions or need more information, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist. ⚠️Always follow the dosing instructions provided by your veterinarian.Name, Brand names, Class of medication and Storage
Name
- Ranitidine (ra-nit-ih-deen).
Brand name
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing ranitidine.
Class of medication
- Histamine (H2) receptor antagonist.
Storage
- Store at room temperature.
Why has my cat been prescribed ranitidine?
Your veterinarian has prescribed ranitidine for the prevention or treatment of stomach and duodenal ulcers. Ranitidine can also be prescribed to help with acid reflux. Ranitidine reduces the production of acid in the stomach. Ranitidine may have a mildly stimulating effect on the stomach and intestines motility.
How is the medication given?
Ranitidine is given orally (as tablets or an oral syrup). It is usually administered two to three times daily but follow your veterinarian’s dosing instructions. Tablets/syrup can either be administered directly into your pet’s mouth or given with food.
Are there any side-effects or drug interactions?
Side-effects of ranitidine are rare, but may include low blood pressure, abnormal blood cells count, abnormal heart rhythm and weakness. These signs are more likely to be seen if your pet receives too much ranitidine. Your pet may be able to continue with the drug if side-effects are mild, but it’s best to let your veterinarian know as soon as possible if you have any concerns, so that they can decide whether additional medications or different medications are required. The following drugs may interact with ranitidine: other antacids, digoxin, ketoconazole, metoclopramide and sucralfate. Long term ranitidine may interfere with vitamin B12 and other nutrients absorption. Ranitidine may affect transiently the intestinal microbiome. If your pet is also taking sucralfate, give the ranitidine at least 2 hrs before the sucralfate. If your pet is also taking metoclopramide, give the metoclopramide at least 2 hrs before or after the ranitidine.
How long will my cat need to receive this medication?
Ranitidine should be administered according to your veterinarian’s instructions. The length of treatment will vary between patients.
How should I dispose of this medication if I don’t use it all?
Dispose of any unused ranitidine safely – do not flush down the toilet or sink. Ask your veterinary team if they take back medication for disposal. Do not save ranitidine for future use or give to other pets.
What if I miss a dose or give an extra dose?
If you miss a dose, give the dose as soon as possible but do not give a double dose. Make sure the dose given does not exceed the total recommended dose in any 24-hour period.
My cat is unwell, should I still give the drug?
If your pet is unwell, contact your veterinarian for advice.
What should I do if this medication is accidentally given to another pet or taken by a human?
Ranitidine should only be given to the cat that it has been prescribed for. If accidentally given to other pets, contact your veterinarian for advice. If accidentally consumed by a human, speak to your primary care physician or poison control center.
Will my cat need to be monitored while on ranitidine?
Further information
If you have any concerns, further information on ranitidine can be found on the package insert or via your veterinarian.Europe & UK
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing this drug in the UK or Europe. Your veterinarian may prescribe a human medication containing this drug and will explain off-license use of medications to you.
US
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing this drug in the US. Your vet may prescribe a human medication containing this drug and will explain off-license use of medications to you.