Ranitidine is a histamine-2 receptor antagonist (H2RA) which was discovered in the late 1970s. Being a key treatment for acid peptic disorders for over four decades and is recognized for effectively relieving heartburn and acid-related disorders.

In both children and adults, ranitidine has been used for decades to manage conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcers, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Its efficacy and safety have been well-documented. In adults, ranitidine has been a mainstay in the treatment of peptic ulcers, GERD, and pathological hypersecretory conditions. Its rapid onset of action and relatively long duration of acid suppression have made it a preferred choice for many clinicians.

Its mechanism of action involves competitively blocking histamine H2 receptors on the parietal cells in the stomach, thereby reducing the secretion of gastric acid. Compared to other H2RAs like cimetidine and famotidine, ranitidine has lower potential for drug interactions and is generally well-tolerated.