Zantac, a prescription and over-the-counter medication used to treat heartburn, was voluntarily recalled by its manufacturer Sanofi in October 2019 after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) found it contains an impurity that may be linked to cancer. According to USA Today, several generic versions of the medication, which is also known as ranitidine, have also been recalled by their manufacturers and distributors.
This probable carcinogen, named nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), was previously discovered in many types of recalled blood pressure medications, including valsartan and losartan. The FDA first began investigating Zantac and ranitidine tablets after Valisure, a Connecticut-based online pharmacy, found significantly higher levels of NDMA than the FDA’s recommended daily limits in the medications.
The FDA issued a recall request in April 2020 to all manufacturers of ranitidine medications in both pill and liquid form after determining, "it should not be available to consumers and patients unless its quality can be assured."
What Complications May Be Associated with Zantac?
Because NDMA is a probable carcinogen, people who took Zantac or generic ranitidine for at least one year may be at higher risk for the following types of cancer:
- Bladder
- Stomach
- Intestinal
- Esophageal
- Kidney
- Pancreatic
- Colon
- Liver
USA Today reports that because of the risks associated with the medications, Valisure submitted a citizen petition to the FDA requesting the agency initiate a recall and suspend sales of both the branded and generic versions of ranitidine.
What Compensation Is Available for Zantac Cancer Victims?
The expenses associated with Zantac-related cancer can be overwhelming. Cancer treatments often involve potent and expensive medications and therapies, including chemotherapy and radiation. Many victims are unable to work while undergoing treatment and for weeks or months afterward while they recover.
Zantac cancer victims may be eligible for the following types of compensation:
- Current and future medical bills
- Current and future lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- And more
Getting compensation for Zantac-related cancer expenses isn’t a straightforward process, as its manufacturer and distributors may be reluctant to pay settlements. However, hiring a lawyer may help maximize the chances of getting compensation.
What Should You Do If You Took or Are Currently Taking Zantac?
If you take Zantac or took it in the past by prescription, talk to your doctor about your options. If you take over-the-counter Zantac or any other ranitidine product, cease taking it immediately and don't buy more. "There are multiple drugs approved for the same or similar uses as ranitidine that do not carry the same risks from NDMA," according to the FDA.
If you or someone you love took or are currently taking Zantac and developed cancer, including bladder, stomach, intestinal, esophageal, kidney, pancreatic, colon, or liver cancer, our law firm wants to help you. Your cancer diagnosis may be related to the carcinogens present in Zantac and generic ranitidine, and it’s our goal to help you get compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other complication-related expenses.
Contact us today for a free consultation. We want to help you get the money you deserve.
Zantac is a registered trademark of Sanofi.
This law firm is not associated with, sponsored by, or affiliated with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Sanofi, or USA Today.
Do not stop taking a prescription medication without first consulting with your doctor. Discontinuing a prescribed medication without your doctor's advice can result in injury or death.
Cases may be referred to another attorney or law firm.
