Ranitidine and omeprazole, what's the difference? : function, dosage, side effects, how to use

Ranitidine and omeprazole are both drugs that can both be used to treat gastritis (ulcer) or other diseases related to stomach acid, such as stomach ulcers and GERD. However, both of them have many differences.

What are the differences between ranitidine and omeprazole?

Some of the differences between ranitidine and omeprazole are:

Judging from the way it works

Ranitidine works by reducing stomach acid production. Thus, the stomach acid released into your digestive system is reduced. This can then cure gastritis or other acid reflux-related ailments. Ranitidine is a class of drugs known as histamine (H2) blockers.

Meanwhile, omeprazole works by blocking the production of stomach acid, so it can help treat gastritis and other diseases related to stomach acid. This is done by omeprazole by blocking the work of the cell parts that produce acid.

Judging from the side effects

Just like other drugs, ranitidine and omeprazole also have side effects. Common side effects of ranitidine and omeprazole are headache, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, gas, and drowsiness. However, they both have different serious side effects.

Ranitidine can cause serious side effects, such as:

• Heart problem
• Abnormal heart rate
• Thrombocytopenia (very low platelets)

Meanwhile, omeprazole can cause serious side effects, such as:

• Heart problem
• Upper respiratory infection
• Clostridium difficile infection
• Bone fracture

Judging from the warning before taking medicine

Before you take the drug, you are strongly advised to read the instructions for use and drug warnings. Some medications can cause problems if you have certain health conditions.

When you want to use ranitidine, it's a good idea to consult your doctor first if you have any of the following medical conditions:

• Liver disease
• Kidney illness
• Porphyria

Meanwhile, for the use of omeprazole, you should first talk to your doctor if you have:

• Liver disease
• Osteoporosis
• History of heart attack

The dosage and interactions of the drugs ranitidine and omeprazole with other drugs also have differences. For more details, you should read the instructions for use of each drug or consult your doctor or pharmacist first.

Can ranitidine and omeprazole be used together?

Ranitidine and omeprazole are two drugs that have the same function, namely to treat diseases related to stomach acid. However, both have different ways of working. If you want to combine these two drugs, they are actually safe to use. In fact, little evidence suggests that combining the two drugs can produce a more effective effect than either one alone.

However, most doctors will only prescribe one of these drugs. This may be much safer for you. Remember, every drug has side effects. So, the more medicine you take, the more likely you are to experience drug side effects.