Is Ranitidine Safe in Pregnancy

Status

avoid Last reviewed: 2026-05-16 · Confidence: high

Reason

FDA requested removal of all ranitidine products due to NDMA impurity concerns.

Drug Information

Brand Name
Zantac
Generic Name
ranitidine
Drug Class
H2 receptor antagonist
FDA Category
N/A (PLLR narrative label)
Rx Status
unknown

Safe Amount

Dosage must be determined by your provider based on individual risk/benefit.

Effects

Pregnancy
Use is not recommended because of FDA market withdrawal; consult your prescriber for alternatives.
Mother
Can reduce stomach acid; product was removed from the U.S. market due to NDMA contamination concerns.
Baby
No adequate, well-controlled studies in pregnant women; animal studies did not show fetal harm in labeling.

Trimester Notes

1st Trimester
No trimester-specific pregnancy dosing guidance found in official labeling; avoid use because FDA removed ranitidine products from the market.
2nd Trimester
No trimester-specific pregnancy dosing guidance found in official labeling; avoid use because FDA removed ranitidine products from the market.
3rd Trimester
No trimester-specific pregnancy dosing guidance found in official labeling; avoid use because FDA removed ranitidine products from the market.

Conditions & Warnings

  • Consult OB/GYN or prescriber
  • Do not start, stop, or switch medicines without medical advice
  • If you are pregnant and need acid relief, ask about alternatives

Alternatives

  • famotidine
  • antacids such as calcium carbonate if approved by your OB/GYN or prescriber

References

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