| Common Brands | Axid AR |
|---|---|
|
Drug Class |
H2 Receptor Antagonists (H2 Blockers) |
|
Controlled Substance Classification |
Not a controlled medication |
|
Generic Status |
Lower-cost generic available |
|
Availability |
Prescription only |
Axid AR is a brand name for the medication ranitidine that belongs to a class of pharmaceutical drugs which are categorized as H2 blockers or H2 antagonists. Axid AR is useful in treating a variety of acid reflux and stomach ulcers.
Ranitidine acts to decrease the production of gastric acid, thus helping patients to alleviate symptoms from the overproduction of gastric acid, which can cause such symptoms as heartburn, indigestion, and ulcers.
Axid AR is used for conditions such as GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), gastric ulcers, duodenal ulcers, and conditions whereby the stomach is over-producing acid.
It has been withdrawn by several markets because of contamination with NDMA, a substance that is considered a potential carcinogen, and though banned in many markets, may still be stocked in a country subject to its local regulatory approval.
Axid AR is available in oral tablet form. Axid AR could be administered orally and is most commonly taken with or without food. General Instructions on dosage:
Typical Dosage: The dosages of Axid AR vary based on the condition being treated. For heartburn or acid reflux, typical dosing usually starts at 75 mg to 150 mg once or twice a day. Ulcers are likely prescribed with a higher dose.
Axid AR (ranitidine) works by binding to H2 receptors on the gastric lining. The activation of these receptors leads to the stimulation of acid production through histamine, which is a natural body product.
H2 Receptor Blockade: Ranitidine exerts its effect through the inhibition of the action of histamine on H2 receptors on the stomach, thus suppressing the production of gastric acid.
It reduces the quantity of stomach acid produced due to the inhibition of acid production, which helps ease symptoms such as heartburn, indigestion, and acid reflux.
Healing: Ranitidine helps in healing ulcers by decreasing the output of the stomach’s acid to create an environment where the mucosal lining can heal more effectively.
Long Acting: Ranitidine acts for as long as 12 hours. That is why it is used twice a day.
Like all medicines, Axid AR can cause side effects although not everyone who takes the tablets will get them. Also, in some cases, side effects may be very serious. The most common and the most serious side effects are listed below.
Common Side Effects:
Headache
Dizziness
Constipation or diarrhea
Nausea or vomiting
Fatigue
Serious Side Effects (rare):
Allergic reactions: Rash, itching, swelling especially of the face/tongue/throat, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
Blood disorders: Unusual bruising or bleeding, persistent sore throat, or fever.
Given the potential for serious side effects, it is important to contact a healthcare provider if any of the above symptoms occur.
Renal Impairment: Patients with impaired kidneys may require a smaller dose of Axid AR, since the medication is excreted in the kidneys.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Ranitidine is considered to be safe for short-term use during pregnancy although its use should be initiated only if clearly necessary. It is secreted in breast milk. Nursing mothers are advised to discuss the use of drug with their physician.
Long-Term Use: Long-term use of H2 blockers, such as Axid AR, causes side effects that include vitamin B12 deficiency, decreased calcium absorption, and the increased tendency to break bones. This is a drug that should only be used with professional guidance, if used for long periods.
Interaction with other drugs: It can interact with other medications such as certain antibiotics, antifungal drugs and medications related to the virus of HIV. Always mention all such prescribed or over-the-counter drugs or supplement to your doctor so that he may advise over possible interactions.
Antacids: Antacids can reduce the absorption of Axid AR by altering stomach pH, potentially reducing its effectiveness. It is recommended to space the administration of antacids and Axid AR.
Warfarin: Nizatidine may increase the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, raising the risk of bleeding. Close monitoring of blood clotting parameters (INR) is advised.
Theophylline: Nizatidine can inhibit the metabolism of theophylline, a drug used for asthma or COPD, potentially increasing its blood levels and the risk of toxicity.
Ketoconazole: Since nizatidine can raise gastric pH, it may reduce the absorption of drugs that require an acidic environment for optimal absorption, such as ketoconazole, reducing its effectiveness.
Axid AR Dosage varies with the condition being treated. The following are the standard dosages used:
For treating heartburn and GERD: 75 mg to 150 mg per day.
Duodenal or Gastric Ulcers: The usual dose is 150 mg twice daily or 300 mg once daily.
Prevention of Stress Ulcers: The dose may be adjusted according to the diagnosis.
Always adhere to your healthcare provider’s directions, and do not take more than what is prescribed.
Axid AR is available as an over-the-counter medicine and can also be prescribed by a physician, either depending upon the dosage and strength level or region.
OTC formulations generally contain smaller doses of 75 mg; prescriptions can contain higher doses, 150 mg or more.
For patients with chronic or severe acid-related conditions, higher doses and/or long-term use may be prescribed, and the healthcare provider should monitor the patient to determine treatment effectiveness and side effects.
What is Axid AR?
How does Axid AR work?
What are the primary uses of Axid AR?
What is the recommended dosage for Axid AR?
Can Axid AR be taken with food?
What are common side effects of Axid AR?
Is Axid AR safe for long-term use?
Are there any drug interactions with Axid AR?
Who should avoid taking Axid AR?
What should I do if I miss a dose of Axid AR?
Can Axid AR be taken during pregnancy?
Is Axid AR effective for everyone?
Can I take Axid AR if I have kidney problems?
How long does it take for Axid AR to start working?
Is there a generic version available for Axid AR?
What happens if I take too much Axid AR?
Can Axid AR affect my vitamin absorption?
What lifestyle changes can enhance the effectiveness of Axid AR?
Can I drink alcohol while taking Axid AR?
Where can I purchase Axid AR?
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