This NHS content is written for people in England. Medicine names, availability, prescribing and services may differ in other countries.
Ranitidine is not currently available in the UK or globally. It has been discontinued as a precaution because it may contain a small amount of an impurity that has been linked to an increased risk of cancer in animals. It's not yet known whether it will be available again in future.
Ranitidine is a medicine that reduces the amount of acid your stomach makes. It was used for indigestion, heartburn and acid reflux, gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD – this is when you keep getting acid reflux), and to prevent and treat stomach ulcers.
Talk to your doctor or a pharmacist if you have indigestion, or heartburn and acid reflux. There are similar medicines they can recommend for you if you need treatment.
Content supplied by the NHS website, refreshed 19 August 2026. View the original NHS article ↗
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