The Ranitidine Saga: Exploring the Rise, Fall, and Legacy of an Antacid
A Histamine Blocker's Journey: An Introduction to the Ranitidine Market
Ranitidine is a histamine H2 receptor antagonist medication that was widely used to reduce stomach acid production, treating conditions such as heartburn, acid indigestion, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and peptic ulcers. Once a blockbuster drug, the ranitidine market has faced significant disruption due to the discovery of N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), a probable human carcinogen, in some ranitidine products. This led to widespread recalls and regulatory actions globally, significantly impacting the market landscape. While ranitidine was a prominent medication, its current market presence is considerably diminished, with alternative medications like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and other H2 receptor antagonists now more commonly prescribed.
Market Drivers and the Rise and Fall of a Blockbuster
The ranitidine market's initial growth was driven by the high prevalence of acid-related gastrointestinal disorders and its effectiveness in reducing stomach acid. Its over-the-counter availability in many regions further contributed to…