Name of the Procedure:

Injection of ranitidine hydrochloride, 25 mg
Common name: Ranitidine Injection
Technical/Medical term: HCPCS code J2780

Summary

Ranitidine injection is a procedure where a healthcare professional administers a dose of ranitidine hydrochloride (25 mg) into a patient’s body through an injection. Ranitidine is commonly used to reduce stomach acid and treat conditions such as ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Purpose

Ranitidine injection is used to decrease the production of stomach acid, which can help in treating and managing:

• Stomach and intestinal ulcers
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (overproduction of stomach acid)
• Conditions that cause stomach acid to move into the esophagus

The goal of this procedure is to provide rapid relief from symptoms, promote healing of ulcers, and prevent further damage to the digestive tract.

Indications

• Persistent heartburn or acid reflux that does not respond to oral medications
• Acute episodes of gastrointestinal bleeding
• Stress ulcer prophylaxis in critical care settings
• Specific conditions like Zollinger-Ellison syndrome requiring strong acid suppression

Preparation

• Patients may be instructed to fast for a few hours before the procedure.
• Review of patient’s medical history and any current medications to avoid interactions.
• Baseline diagnostic tests like blood work may be conducted to ensure patient safety.

Procedure Description

1. The healthcare professional prepares the injection site, typically the upper arm or thigh, by cleaning it with an antiseptic solution.
2. Using a sterile syringe, the professional draws the prescribed dose (25 mg) of ranitidine hydrochloride from a vial.
3. The medication is then injected intramuscularly (IM) or intravenously (IV), depending on the patient’s condition and specific instructions.
4. Post-injection, the area is monitored for any immediate adverse reactions.

Duration

The injection process typically takes about 5-10 minutes.

Setting

Ranitidine injections are administered in settings such as:

• Hospitals
• Outpatient clinics
• Urgent care centers

Personnel

• Registered nurse (RN) or licensed practical nurse (LPN) typically administers the injection.
• A physician or specialist may be present to assess the patient and provide instructions.

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: Mild pain or discomfort at the injection site, temporary redness, or swelling.
• Rare risks: Allergic reaction to the medication, infection at the injection site.
• Management: Monitoring for allergic reactions and treating any local site complications promptly.

Benefits

• Rapid relief from symptoms related to excess stomach acid.
• Promotion of healing for ulcers and reduction of esophageal inflammation.
• Expected benefits typically realized within 30 minutes to an hour.

Recovery

• Patients can usually resume normal activities immediately after the injection.
• Follow-up instructions may include dietary recommendations and avoiding certain medications.
• A follow-up appointment may be scheduled to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment.

Alternatives

• Oral ranitidine or other H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) may be prescribed.
• Lifestyle modifications, such as diet changes and avoiding specific triggers, may provide relief.
• Surgical interventions in severe cases of GERD or ulcers.

Patient Experience

• Patients may feel a brief stinging sensation during the injection.
• Post-procedure discomfort is minimal, with rare occurrences of significant pain.
• If pain or side effects persist, patients should contact their healthcare provider for assessment and management options.