What is the difference between Zantac and Prilosec?

Prilosec and Zantac are medications used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Prilosec is the brand name for omeprazole, and Zantac is the brand name for ranitidine. They are both available over the counter.

Prilosec is a proton pump inhibitor. It works to decrease acid production in the stomach. Other examples of PPI include lansoprazole, esomeprazole, and pantoprazole. PPIs can also be used to treat ulcers and Zollinger Ellison syndrome. Zantac is an H2 (histamine-2) blocker that blocks the action of histamine on the cells. This reduces the production of acid by the stomach. Other examples of H2 blockers are cimetidine, famotidine, and nizatidine.