Ranitidine, known to the millions by its trade name Zantac, is an acid gearbox and histamine blocker. It works by blocking histamine receptors in the lining of the stomach. Doctors prescribe it primarily for the treatment of peptic ulcers, gastritis and gastric reflux. They are also prescribed to treat rare conditions in which the stomach causes too much acid, possibly due to an increase in the pancreas (Zollinger-Ellison syndrome). Ranitidine, in addition to the name Zantac, is sold by other companies under different names.
Fifty million or more people in the United States suffer from hypertension, and the number is increasing every day. Blood pressure is the force of blood on the walls of arteries. When the pressure is too high, it causes the heart to work too hard and can lead to heart attacks or stroke. But what, if any, is the relationship of ranitidine with hypertension?
Although ranitidine was introduced to the public in 1981 and has been the subject of many studies, there have been very few direct studies and no studies of the effects of ranitidine on hypertension. In one study, the effect on hypertension was tested in patients who already had high blood pressure. Testing showed no increase in blood pressure in these subjects. However, the same study did not conduct tests on ranitidine in patients with normal blood pressure levels.
In a study on the cardiovascular effects of ranitidine on children, twelve children with congenital heart disease received intravenous doses of ranitidine. Although their heart rate fell below baseline levels, researchers concluded that drugs do not affect high blood pressure, but rather determine that more research is needed. This study also did not test children with normal blood pressure levels.
Many people with hypertension who are thinking of taking Zantac or other ranitidine derivatives rightly concern how the drug will affect their high blood pressure. One of the confirmed possible side effects of ranitidine is a slowing of the heart rate or bradycardia. If this happens, the heartbeat may become too slow or too irregular to meet the demand for the body. The result may be dizziness or vertigo. Whether it is hazardous to your health can only be determined by a qualified doctor.
Although, as a rule, a side effect is not considered, there have also been reports from some patients that the administration of ranitidine increased heart rate. If so, it follows that their blood pressure would also increase. However, there is currently no conclusive evidence that there is any one-to-one correlation between ranitidine and high blood pressure.
If you have high blood pressure and you are taking ranitidine or Zantac, the best thing you can do is to monitor your own blood pressure after taking the medication and notify your doctor of any significant changes in the indication. You should also notify your doctor if you experience either a significant increase or decrease in heart rate, since any condition can adversely affect your health.
