Annals of internal medicine
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Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study Clinical Trial
Bolus or intravenous infusion of ranitidine: effects on gastric pH and acid secretion. A comparison of relative efficacy and cost.
To compare the effects of intravenous bolus injection of ranitidine, continuous intravenous infusion of ranitidine, and placebo on gastric pH, acid secretion, and plasma ranitidine concentration during a 24-hour period, and to determine by survey the use, delivery methods, and costs of histamine H2-receptor antagonists in intensive care units. ⋯ On the basis of both efficacy and cost, intermittent bolus injections should be discontinued and replaced by continuous intravenous infusion in hospitalized patients requiring treatment with histamine H2-receptor antagonists. If ranitidine is used, either 150 mg or 300 mg administered as a 24-hour continuous infusion is most effective.