Ranitidine and high blood pressure

Ranitidine and high blood pressure

Ranitidine, known to millions by the trade name Zantac, is an acid reducer and histamine blocker. It blocks the histamine receptors in the stomach lining. Doctors mainly prescribe it to treat stomach ulcers, gastritis and gastric reflux. They also prescribe it to treat rare conditions in which the stomach produces too much acid, possibly due to an enlargement of the pancreas ( Zollinger-Ellison syndrome). In addition to the Zantac name, ranitidine is also marketed by other companies under various other names.

50 million or more people in the United States suffer from high blood pressure and the number is increasing daily. Blood pressure is the force of blood against artery walls. If the pressure is too high, the heart works too hard and can lead to a heart attack or stroke. But what is the relationship of ranitidine to high blood pressure, if any?

Although ranitidine was introduced to the public in 1981 and has been the subject of many studies, there have been very few direct studies and no studies on the effects of ranitidine on high blood pressure. One study tested the effect on high blood pressure in patients who already had high blood pressure. The tests showed no increase in blood pressure in these test subjects. However, the same study did not test the effects on ranitidine in patients with normal blood pressure.

In a study testing the cardiovascular effects of ranitidine in children, twelve children with congenital heart disease received intravenous doses of ranitidine. Although her heart rate fell below baseline, researchers concluded that the medications had no effect on high blood pressure and instead noted that further studies were needed. This study also did not test children with normal blood pressure.

Many people with high blood pressure who are thinking about taking Zantac or another ranitidine derivative are rightly concerned about how the medication will affect their high blood pressure. One of the confirmed possible side effects of ranitidine is slowing of heart rate or bradycardia. When this happens, the heartbeat may become too slow or irregular to meet the body's needs. The result may be dizziness or lightheadedness. Only a qualified doctor can determine whether this is harmful to your health.

Although this is not generally considered a side effect, there have also been reports from some patients that taking ranitidine increased their heart rate. If this is true, it would follow that her blood pressure would also have increased. However, there is currently no conclusive evidence that there is a one-to-one correlation between ranitidine and high blood pressure.

If you have high blood pressure and are taking ranitidine or Zantac, the best thing you can do is monitor your own blood pressure after taking the medication and notify your doctor of any significant changes in readings. You should also notify the doctor if you notice a significant increase or decrease in your heart rate, as both conditions can affect your health.

Inspired by Melissa Chow