Ranitidine 150 mg is the active medicinal ingredient in heartburn drugs such as Zantac 150 and Efferdose tablets. It belongs to a group of drugs called histamine-2 or H-2 blockers. RxList.com explains that Ranitidine works by blocking the H2 receptors in the cells of the stomach lining. This prevents a chemical in the body called histamine from stimulating these cells to produce stomach acid. Though stomach acid is needed for normal digestion, excess production can lead to heartburn, acid reflux, indigestion and stomach and intestinal ulcers. There are several side effects of ranitidine that do not generally occur in all individuals.
Central Nervous Effects
Use of Ranitidine 150 mg tablets affects the entire body central nervous system. These side effects include fatigue, general malaise, dizziness, vertigo and insomnia.
Respiratory Effects
Individuals taking ranitidine and other histamine-2 blocking medications may also be at higher risk of developing pneumonia, according to RxList.
Cardiovascular Effects
Ranitidine side effects that affect the heart and blood vessel system are similar to those reported for other histamine 2 blockers. NetDoctor cites arrythmia or irregular heart beat, tachycardia or rapid a heart rate and bradycardia or a slowed heart rate as possible side effects.
Gastrointestinal Effects
Gastrointestinal symptoms affect digestion and bowel movements. These side effects of ranitidine include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain and bloating, constipation and diarrhea, according to Drugs.com.
Hepatic Effects
Side effects of ranitidine that involve the liver include liver cell destruction due to hepatitis inflammation. Jaundice may occur in some cases. RxList notes that these liver effects are reversible in most cases.
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