According to the National Institutes of Health, novo-ranitidine, also known as Zantac belongs to a class of medications called H2 acid blockers. Novo-ranitidine is used to treat acid related stomach disorders such as stomach ulcers, duodenal ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Novo-ranitidine available over-the-counter treats, heartburn and indigestion caused by a sour stomach. Novo-ranitidine like any other drug has side effects.
Gastrointestinal Effects
According to Drugs.com, common gastrointestinal side effects of novo-ranitidine include constipation, diarrhea, nausea, upset stomach, nausea, vomiting and abdominal discomfort. Long-term use of novo-ranitidine may cause inflammation of the pancreas and the liver. Novo-ranitidine may also cause rebound stomach acid hypersecretion when the drug is discontinued after long-term use. Signs of pancreas inflammation include fatty stool, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and fever. Signs and symptoms of liver failure include yellowing of the skin and eyes, pain on the right side of abdomen, swollen abdomen, dark urine and clay colored stool.
Nervous System Effects
According to Drugs.com effects of novo-ranitidine on the nervous system include headache, dizziness, malaise, vertigo, confusion, depression, hallucinations, involuntary motor movements and dystonia. Dystonia is sustained muscle contractions causing frequent twisting and repetitive movements.
Respiratory Effects
Drugs.com states that patients taking novo-ranitidine and other H2 blockers may experience an increased secretion of stomach acid instead of a decreased secretion of stomach acid. This places patients at a high risk of develop aspiration pneumonia. Patients develop aspiration pneumonia caused by backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus and throat. Patients may reduce the risk of aspiration pneumonia by elevating the head of the bed with blocks so as to decrease rebound reflux caused by novo-ranitidine.
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