The Two Answers to a Simple Question
For many years, the brand name Zantac was synonymous with its generic name, ranitidine. Both were used to treat conditions like heartburn, acid indigestion, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) [1.2.3]. However, the landscape of over-the-counter acid reducers changed dramatically in 2020. Due to a major recall and subsequent reformulation, the question 'What is the other name for Zantac?' now has two answers depending on the context: the historical ingredient and the current one.
The Original Zantac: Ranitidine
Originally, Zantac's active ingredient was ranitidine [1.3.3]. Ranitidine belongs to a class of drugs known as histamine-2 receptor antagonists, or H2 blockers [1.2.3]. It works by decreasing the amount of acid produced by the stomach [1.2.1]. For decades, it was a widely used medication available in both over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription strengths to treat and prevent stomach and intestinal ulcers, GERD, and other conditions involving excessive stomach acid [1.2.3].
The 2020 Recall: NDMA Contamination
In 2019, concerns began to surface regarding the presence of a contaminant called N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) in ranitidine products [1.2.2]. NDMA is classified as a probable human carcinogen, meaning it could potentially cause cancer after long-term exposure [1.2.2]. The FDA's investigations found that NDMA levels in some ranitidine products could increase over time, especially when stored at temperatures higher than room temperature [1.4.5]. This led to an escalating series of voluntary recalls by various manufacturers throughout late 2019 and early 2020 [1.4.1].
On April 1, 2020, the FDA took a decisive step and requested that all manufacturers immediately withdraw all prescription and OTC ranitidine drugs from the market [1.2.4, 1.4.5]. This effectively removed all ranitidine-based Zantac products from availability in the United States.
A New Era: Zantac 360 and Famotidine
Following the recall, the manufacturer Sanofi reformulated the product and launched Zantac 360 [1.3.1]. The active ingredient in this new product is famotidine [1.3.2].
Famotidine is also an H2 blocker and works in a very similar way to ranitidine by reducing stomach acid production [1.3.2]. Importantly, FDA testing has not found NDMA in famotidine [1.2.4]. Famotidine is a well-established medication that is also the active ingredient in another popular acid reducer, Pepcid [1.3.3]. The new Zantac 360, containing famotidine, is considered a safe alternative and is not associated with the NDMA contamination that led to the original product's recall [1.3.1].
Comparison of Acid Reflux Medications
Understanding the differences between the available options can help in making an informed choice for managing heartburn and acid reflux. The main categories are H2 blockers and Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs).
| Feature | Famotidine (Zantac 360, Pepcid) | Ranitidine (Formerly Zantac) | Proton Pump Inhibitors (e.g., Omeprazole) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drug Class | H2 Blocker [1.6.2] | H2 Blocker [1.2.3] | Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI) [1.6.2] |
| Mechanism | Blocks histamine signals that produce acid [1.2.1]. | Blocks histamine signals that produce acid [1.2.1]. | Blocks the acid-producing pumps in the stomach [1.2.6]. |
| Onset of Action | Relatively fast; can be taken as needed [1.7.3]. | Relatively fast. | Slower onset; may take 1-4 days for full effect [1.7.2]. |
| Primary Use | Relief of occasional heartburn [1.7.2]. | Was used for occasional heartburn and ulcers. | Treatment of frequent heartburn (2+ days/week) and more severe conditions [1.7.4]. |
| Availability | Available OTC [1.3.1]. | No longer available in the U.S. [1.4.5]. | Available OTC and by prescription [1.6.4]. |
| NDMA Concern | No NDMA found in FDA testing [1.2.4]. | Recalled due to unacceptable NDMA levels [1.4.5]. | No NDMA found in FDA testing [1.2.4]. |
H2 Blockers vs. Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)
H2 blockers like famotidine are generally recommended for milder, less frequent episodes of heartburn and can be taken as needed [1.7.1]. They start working relatively quickly to reduce acid production for up to 12 hours [1.6.4].
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs), such as omeprazole (Prilosec) and esomeprazole (Nexium), are more potent acid blockers [1.7.5]. They work by shutting down the pumps in the stomach that secrete acid. Because they are stronger and have a longer-lasting effect, they are often recommended for frequent heartburn, GERD, and healing esophageal damage [1.7.5]. However, they are meant to be taken daily for a course of treatment and are not intended for immediate relief [1.7.4].
Conclusion: The Evolving Answer
So, what is the other name for Zantac? Historically, it was ranitidine. Today, it is famotidine, the active ingredient in the reformulated Zantac 360 [1.3.3]. The story of Zantac is a significant event in pharmacology, highlighting the rigorous safety monitoring conducted by regulatory bodies like the FDA. While the original product is no longer available due to safety concerns, the brand continues with a different, proven-safe active ingredient, offering consumers an effective option for managing heartburn. For more information on the recall, you can visit the FDA's information page.
