Pharmacokinetic properties of ranitidine in Chinese people

The pharmacokinetics and relative bioavailability of two different formulated ranitidine tablets were examined in 12 healthy young Chinese males at one week intervals in a randomized crossover design. Both ranitidine plasma and urine concentrations were measured by a sensitive, accurate and specific High Performance Liquid Chromatography method. No bioavailability differences were found between Glaxo's and Veteran's ranitidine products. However, larger apparent volume of distribution, higher total oral clearance and higher non-renal clearance was observed in Chinese. Further studies are needed to elucidate a higher ranitidine dosage may be required for Chinese to achieve the desired plasma level.