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Difference Between Nexium & Ranitidine

There are many ways to fight acid reflux. One way is ranitidine, an antihistamine that helps to reduce acid production. Another way is Nexium, a proton pump inhibitor that blocks acid production entirely.

  1. Considerations

    • Both medications require you to check before use for potential conflicts involving allergies or other medications.

    History

    • Ranitidine was first introduced in 1981 and quickly became the world's top-selling prescription drug by 1988. Advances in the medicine industry have since allowed for the creation of pump inhibitors like Nexium, which have surpassed ranitidine.

    Use

    • Ranitidine comes in tablet form, granule form, and in a syrup to take by mouth. Nexium is available in single-use vials, delayed release capsules, and delayed release oral suspension.

    Warning

    • Symptoms of Nexium overdosage include blurred vision, excessive drowsiness, or rapid heartbeat. Symptoms for an overdose of ranitidine may include low blood pressure, change in walking pattern, or muscle tremors.

    Side Effects

    • The side effects for both drugs are very similar, the most common of which are headache, diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain and constipation.

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