Alex asked
Can I take Rolaids and Zantac together?
Answer
Rolaids (calcium carbonate/magnesium hydroxide) is an antacid used for the relief of heartburn, acid indigestion and stomach upset. Zantac (ranitidine) is a histamine H2 antagonist (blocker) used in the treatment of duodenal and stomach ulcers, erosive esophagitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and heartburn. Both of these medications can be taken together safely and there is no interaction between them.
Rolaids
Rolaids (calcium carbonate/magnesium hydroxide) is often taken as needed for the relief of heartburn, acid indigestion and stomach upset. Antacids work by neutralizing stomach acid and raising the pH of the stomach contents. The dosage form taken can influence the time it takes for a patient to feel relief. Liquid dosage forms typically have a faster onset of action than tablets but both will begin working quickly after taking. The duration of action of antacids is typically as long as the drug remains in the stomach. Antacids are generally well tolerated.
Common side effects for calcium carbonate include belching, gas and constipation. A common side effect of magnesium hydroxide is diarrhea. Patients with renal impairment (kidney disease) should exercise caution when taking antacids that contain calcium carbonate, magnesium hydroxide or both.
It is important to note that antacids, such as Rolaids, have been known to possibly cause absorption problems with certain medications. One example of this is with levothyroxine, a commonly prescribed thyroid medication. It is important to ask your pharmacist or doctor whether or not it is safe to take Rolaids with your prescription medication.
Zantac (Ranitidine)
Zantac (ranitidine) is available over the counter (without prescription) for the treatment of heartburn. Histamine H2 antagonists (blockers) work by decreasing acid production. Zantac (ranitidine) is typically dosed up to twice daily for over the counter use. It is a well tolerated medication with the most common side effects being headache, diarrhea, constipation, dizziness and drowsiness.
H2 blockers do not work as quickly as antacids and generally take 1 to 2 hours to begin working. However, they are often a better choice than antacids when consistent dosing is needed.
Patients with renal (kidney) disease should check with their doctor or other health care provider before taking. Over the counter use of Zantac (ranitidine) should not be continued for more than 2 weeks without consulting your doctor or other health care provider.
Taking Rolaids With Zantac
Taking both Rolaids (calcium carbonate/magnesium hydroxide) and Zantac (ranitidine) together is safe. Both medications are well tolerated. Rolaids (calcium carbonate/magnesium hydroxide) will give a quicker relief while Zantac (ranitidine) will provide a more sustained relief of gastric symptoms such as heartburn.
While Rolaids and Zantac are safe to take together as discussed above, one study reported that taking an antacid, such as Rolaids, with a histamine H2 blocker, like Zantac, can result in decreased concentrations in the blood of the H2 blocker. However, there was no difference in effectiveness of the H2 blocker reported in this particular study.
