The MHRA have suspended all licenses for ranitidine products due to regulatory investigation into the presence of a very small amount of a contaminant which has been linked to an increased risk of cancer in animals. It is not yet known whether it will be available in the future.
This has led to increased demand for other H2-receptor antagonists which in turn has caused supply problems. Therefore if an H2-receptor antagonist is required, either famotidine or nizatidine (depending on supply) may be prescribed as an alternative to ranitidine.
