Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Alka-seltzer
Ranitidine (Zantac)
Alka-seltzer
Ranitidine (Zantac)
Summary of Alka-Seltzer vs. Zantac
Summary for Antacid / NSAID
Alka-Seltzer is a medication used to treat symptoms of heartburn, such as upset stomach and headache. While there are multiple products under this brand, this page focuses on the combination medication containing 3 active ingredients: citric acid, sodium bicarbonate, and aspirin. It comes as tablets that are dissolved in water. You drink the mixture by mouth, typically every 4-6 hours as needed.
Summary for Histamine H2 antagonist
Ranitidine (Zantac) is a medication used for heartburn and other stomach conditions. It's no longer available in the United States because it was recalled by the FDA.
Indications of Alka-Seltzer vs. Zantac
Indications for
•Heartburn, indigestion, and sour stomach with headache, body aches, or pain
•Upset stomach and headache from having too much food or drink
•Headache, body aches, and pain alone
Indications for
Pros and Cons of Alka-Seltzer vs. Zantac
Pros and Const for Antacid / NSAID
Pros
•Combination of three medications in a single pill
•Easy to take for people who have trouble swallowing pills
•Available over the counter
Cons
•Might not be safe for children 12 years old and younger
•Might need to take multiple times per day
•Might not be safe for people with certain health conditions (e.g. kidney problems, heart problems, high bleeding risk)
Pros and Const for Histamine H2 antagonist
Pros
Cons
Common Side Effects of Alka-Seltzer vs. Zantac
Common Side Effects for
See Risks and Warnings
Common Side Effects for
Warnings of Alka-Seltzer vs. Zantac
Common Side Effects for
•Stomach bleeding and ulcers
•Reye's syndrome in children
•Allergic reactions
Common Side Effects for
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