zantac before elective caesarean?

[ruty]

I've been given zantac [ranitidine] to take night before my elective c section and in morning. Is this normal procedure? Hate taking drugs in pregnancy and just wonderng if this is a widespread think or just where I am. Any ideas?

[uptomyeyes]

Entirely normal. You can feel very sick once the operation is in progress and the ranitidine helps to prevent that.

If you do feel nauseous when anaesthetised tell anaesthetist and s/he will give you some oxygen (I think it was oxygen) that will help you. I have a vague recollection that it was something to do with your blood pressure lowering during the operation.

I've had 3 electives.

[uptomyeyes]

Very best of luck by the way

[ruty]

thankyou! Just wondering about safety of ranitidine for the baby. I've had an emergency section before and i guess i didn't ranitidine then, as it was all decided so quickly.

[jeanjeannie]

Ranitidine should be fine for the baby - I've been prescribed it since 32 weeks as my heartburn had gone way beyond a joke....heading into ulcer territory! it prevents acid reflux occuring during the op - and, like you, I had emrg c-section before and wasn't given it but this time round you get given it night before and morning off the op.

[ruty]

thanks jeanjeannie. Sorry about your hearburn! they told me it is in case i need a general anaesthetic, which seems unlikely, but i guess they have to cover all bases. Would rather not take it but i suppose if i turn up without having taken it they might turn me away..

[MissingMyHeels]

I had emcs and the anti sickness drug was given via an injection into my canula so you may have had it before just didn't notice!

[pucca]

I was booked for an elective, and was supposed to go in on the Monday to get the meds to take.

I went into labour on the Sunday prior, and they just gave me something via my drip instead, but if they have already given it to you, you are best to take it.

[LiegeAndLief]

If it's any consolation, my ds had ranitidine for reflux from about 3 weeks pre-term (he was prem) - it is considered very safe for use in pregnancy and for very small babies. Good luck!

[jeanjeannie]

Oh I can tell you - it's saved me from going nuts....and from an overdose of revolting Gaviscon! Down to one tablet every couple of days and it's been a miricle! Good luck with the C-section