Ranitidine hydrochloride.

Ranitidine is a selective, competitive histamine H2-receptor antagonist recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use in the short-term treatment of active duodenal ulcers and gastric hypersecretory conditions. Ranitidine is four to ten times more potent than cimetidine on a molar basis in inhibiting stimulated gastric acid secretion. Clinical studies have demonstrated that ranitidine is as effective as cimetidine and is similarly well tolerated. Based on available literature (approximately 700 publications), this article reviews the pharmacology, safety profile, and clinical efficacy of ranitidine in duodenal ulcers and gastric hypersecretory conditions.