How Often Has Zantac Been Recalled? | Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has requested a recall on Zantac and other ranitidine anti-heartburn medications. They have been found to contain unsafe levels of NDMA, a probable human carcinogen that can cause a variety of cancers, such as stomach cancer, bladder cancer, colorectal cancer, liver cancer, and many others.

If you or a loved one has taken Zantac or ranitidine and subsequently developed cancer, you may be able to pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering with the help of Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers.

Your lawyer will fight for you, demonstrating that if not for the negligence of the drug companies producing Zantac and its generic forms, you or your loved one would not have developed cancer. This would mean that the drug companies are liable for what has happened to you. Now it is time to hold them accountable.

A Zantac lawsuit lawyer from our firm can evaluate your case and help you understand your options in this difficult time. We will advocate on your behalf to recover damages so that you and your family can get the money you need and deserve as the victims of corporate negligence. Call us today at (855) 529-0269 to learn more and to receive your free consultation.

Can I File a Zantac Lawsuit?

If you or someone you love has developed cancer after taking the anti-heartburn drug Zantac or its generic form ranitidine, you may be able to file a lawsuit to pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Eligibility for Filing a Zantac Lawsuit

If you can show proof that you took ranitidine, that you developed cancer, and that your cancer was caused by the drug, then you may have a claim. A Zantac lawsuit lawyer from Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers can review your case to determine your eligibility.

Filing a Zantac Lawsuit

From there, they can help you file a personal injury lawsuit or join a class action that is already underway.

Proving a Zantac Lawsuit Claim

When assessing your claim, your lawyer will review the available evidence to see if you can prove that Zantac or ranitidine caused your cancer. Receipts, prescriptions, and medical records can all be used to help you build a case, and your personal injury attorney can uncover additional evidence that can strengthen your claim.

Can I File a Lawsuit on Behalf of a Loved One Who Was Affected by Zantac?

If you lost your loved one due to their health struggles resulting from taking Zantac, you may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit to recover compensation for the medical bills, burial costs, and pain and suffering your family has had to endure since their diagnosis and death.

Statutes Regarding Wrongful Death in Florida

According to Florida Statutes §768.19, family members who have lost a loved one due to the negligence of another party have the right to file a lawsuit. Additionally, according to Florida Statutes §95.11, there is generally a two-year statute of limitations on bringing a lawsuit in wrongful death cases. Your time may be limited, so the sooner you reach out to a Zantac lawsuit lawyer from Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers, the sooner they can get started on your case.

Proving a Wrongful Death Claim

In a wrongful death lawsuit, you and your attorney will need to show that your loved one took Zantac or other ranitidine medications, that they subsequently developed cancer, and that their cancer was a result of the NDMA in those medications. Your lawyer can build a case by assembling evidence such as your loved one’s medical records, prescriptions, and purchase receipts.

What Kind of Compensation Can I Get if I File a Zantac Lawsuit?

If you file a Zantac lawsuit, you can potentially recover damages to help with your financial losses, as well as the less tangible suffering you and your loved ones have had to face after a cancer diagnosis. With the help of your lawyer, you may be able to recover both economic and non-economic damages.

Economic Damages

Economic damages are a type of compensation that you can recover through a personal injury lawsuit. They are meant to help you with the financial impact of your injury. Economic damages can compensate you for your past and future medical bills, lost wages or earning potential due to your injuries, and out-of-pocket expenses.

Medical bills can include doctor’s visits, hospital stays, physical therapy, medications, chemotherapy treatments, and any other expenses you have incurred over the course of your cancer treatment.

Out-of-pocket expenses can include any equipment or services you need to buy that otherwise would not be necessary if you were not sick. Cancer and chemotherapy can leave you weakened, meaning that you may need to hire home health aides, gardeners, car services, cleaning services, and other services to help you get through your everyday life.

All of these expenses are potentially recoverable through a lawsuit that awards you economic damages.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages are meant to compensate you for your mental and emotional anguish. The physical pain and emotional suffering you and your loved ones experience due to a cancer diagnosis may not have a price tag attached, but they still cost you dearly. A Zantac lawsuit lawyer from Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers understands this, and they want to help you pursue the compensation to which you are entitled with the grace and dignity you deserve.

What Is Zantac?

According to Harvard Medical School, Zantac is a medication meant to relieve heartburn. It is generically known as ranitidine, and it is available as an over-the-counter (OTC) medication as well as via prescription. It is a type of drug called an “H2 blocker.” H2 stands for histamine-2, which, according to the Mayo Clinic, works to decrease stomach acid production.

Over-the-Counter Ranitidine vs. Prescription Ranitidine

While most over-the-counter ranitidine medications are used to treat heartburn, prescription-strength options can help to treat and prevent ulcers in the gastrointestinal tract. Ranitidine is only recommended for short-term use, but some people take it more consistently to manage chronic stomach acid issues.

Forms of Ranitidine Medications

Zantac is manufactured by a drug company called Sanofi, but other companies also manufacture ranitidine medications under different names. This medication can come in tablets and capsules, as well as in an oral solution or syrup. The dosage is typically 150 mg or 300 mg.

Alternatives to Ranitidine

While Zantac, ranitidine, and other H2 blockers are a popular type of anti-heartburn medication, they are not the only options. PPIs, or proton pump inhibitors, are another class of medication that is meant to limit stomach acid production. While effective, these drugs come with their own risks, so it is best to discuss your options with a trusted healthcare provider.

What Should I Look for in a Zantac Lawyer?

When you are searching for a Zantac lawsuit lawyer, be sure to take the time to find the right fit for you and your family. Experience, compassion, and integrity are important if you want to find a lawyer you can trust to keep your best interests in mind.

At Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers, you will get to work with Jason and Debi Chalik directly. The partners are an active part of the community, and they care about their clients as individuals, not as case numbers. Jason and Debi Chalik will treat you like family, making sure you are kept in the loop about any important developments in your case.

Additionally, the partners have experience with product liability and wrongful death cases, so they know how to handle this part of Florida law to help their clients achieve the best possible outcome.

Jason and Debi understand the devastating impact that corporate negligence can have on patients, their loved ones, and their community. Find out more about how Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers will fight for your rights and take on the drug companies by calling (855) 529-0269 today. Your initial case evaluation is free and your time to file a lawsuit is limited, so the sooner you reach out, the better.

Will Zantac Cover Medical Expenses for Cancer Victims?

Although the manufacturer of Zantac, Sanofi, has voluntarily recalled their over-the-counter ranitidine products at the request of the FDA, they will not voluntarily cover the medical expenses of cancer victims. Drug companies are not healthcare providers like doctors or nurses—they do not take a Hippocratic oath to serve patients. Instead, they are beholden to financial interests that are not always in line with providing the best possible care to you, the consumer of their products.

As such, companies are looking to limit their liability and reduce the amount of money they have to pay out to people hurt by their negligence. This is where personal injury lawyers come in. They serve as advocates for the wrongfully injured, protecting their rights and safeguarding their interests.

Victims of negligence like you and your loved ones deserve representation and compensation, and your Zantac lawsuit lawyer can help guide you through the process of asserting your rights and recovering damages.

To learn more about how a personal injury lawyer can help you hold pharmaceutical companies responsible for the harm they have caused you and your family, reach out to Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers today.

Can I Get My Money Back from Zantac?

You may have several different options for getting your money back:

Refunds for Zantac

Zantac’s manufacturer, Sanofi, will not issue refunds to consumers of their ranitidine products, nor will the other drug companies who manufacture generic ranitidine. But a refund for the purchase price of Zantac will likely not even come close to covering the amount of financial and psychological damage that can result from a cancer diagnosis.

The Real Cost of Cancer

When you or your loved one is diagnosed with cancer, you will have to face life-disrupting challenges for which you may not have been prepared. The cost of cancer treatments, doctors’ visits, and other medical expenses, and the emotional and mental toll that sickness takes on your life can really add up.

Pursue Compensation with the Help of a Zantac Lawsuit Lawyer

Instead of trying to get your money back for the cost of Zantac, consider hiring a Zantac lawsuit lawyer to help you get compensation for the host of financial and emotional losses you have experienced due to a cancer diagnosis resulting from ranitidine use.

Who Can File a Zantac Lawsuit?

Those who can show that they took Zantac and were recently diagnosed with a related cancer may be able to file a Zantac lawsuit to recover compensation for their medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Additionally, family members of deceased cancer victims who took Zantac may also be able to pursue compensation through a wrongful death lawsuit against the drug companies who manufactured ranitidine products.

Evidence to Support a Zantac Lawsuit

To learn if you are eligible to file a Zantac lawsuit, you can speak with a Zantac lawsuit lawyer who can explain your rights and evaluate your case. Some things that can help you when you file a Zantac lawsuit include:

Medical records—these can speak to the severity of your illness as well as the treatments you have had to receive.
Prescriptions—these can attest to what medications you took and when you took them.
Witness statements—statements from witnesses who saw you take these medications, as well as those who can attest to the veracity of your diagnosis and the impacts it has had on your life.
Receipts—if you only took over-the-counter (OTC) ranitidine medications, you may still be able to prove that you took them by offering receipts.

What Should I Do if I Used to Take Zantac?

What Should I Do if I Used To Take Zantac?

If you are currently taking or used to take Zantac, do the following:

Stop Taking Zantac or Ranitidine

If you still have Zantac or ranitidine medications at home, the FDA recommends that you stop taking them immediately.

Connect with Your Doctor to Discuss Zantac

Be sure to keep up with your doctor and get checked up for any potential health concerns. Discuss your Zantac or ranitidine use with your healthcare provider to see if you need further tests.

Safely Dispose of Zantac

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also recommends that you dispose of your unused Zantac or ranitidine using the safe methods they describe on their website. Under COVID-19 protocols, do not go to drug take-back locations to dispose of unwanted medicines.

Consider Alternatives to Zantac

You can consider taking other heartburn medications such as PPIs at the advice of your doctor. Also, a healthy diet and other habit changes can reduce incidents of heartburn. Discuss your options with your healthcare provider.

Why Was Zantac Recalled?

Zantac and other ranitidine medications were recalled from the market due to new scientific evidence that the amount of NDMA present in the drug increases over time and when exposed to higher temperatures. NDMA is a known carcinogen that can be linked to a variety of cancers.

Valisure’s Study and Petition to the FDA

Valisure, a lab in Connecticut that tests consumer drugs, along with Stanford University, found unsafe levels of NDMA in Zantac in September of 2019. It said that this was due to the “inherent instability” of the ranitidine and that the levels increased both over time and as the drug was exposed to higher temperatures.

Valisure then submitted a citizen petition to the FDA describing its findings. The FDA then performed its own tests and issued a recall, banning all ranitidine medication throughout the United States, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs.

Valisure’s Claims About NDMA Levels in Zantac

In its petition, Valisure cites the high perception of safety that the drug enjoys, but notes that in its findings, ranitidine had 3,000,000 ng of NDMA per tablet, which is far higher than the FDA’s recommended safety level of 96 ng or less. For this reason, Zantac and its generic form ranitidine posed a public health risk and needed to be recalled in order to protect consumers.

Where Is Zantac Banned?

At the moment, Zantac and other ranitidine products, both those available over the counter and via prescription, have been banned in the United States. Pharmacies in the states will no longer be selling these medications.

Has Zantac Been Taken Off the Market?

Yes. Zantac and other over-the-counter ranitidine medications have been recalled from the market by the FDA. This has been done in the interest of public health, as Zantac has been shown to have unsafe levels of the known carcinogen NDMA.

The Reasons Zantac Has Been Taken Off the Market

NDMA may cause a variety of cancers in humans, especially cancers of the liver, stomach, colon, rectum, and esophagus. There are also other health risks that can affect people who have taken Zantac and other ranitidine products for an extended period of time. This is the reason Zantac and ranitidine in all of its forms have been taken off the market by the FDA.

What to Do Now that Zantac Is Off the Market

To find out more about those risks and to get yourself checked out, share your concerns with your healthcare provider. They can also advise you of alternative treatments for stomach acid issues now that Zantac has been taken off the market by the FDA.

Is Zantac Banned in All 50 States?

Yes. Zantac and other over-the-counter ranitidine products have been recalled in all 50 states by the FDA. You should not be able to purchase this drug from any U.S. pharmacy, as per the request of the FDA.

What to Do Now that Zantac Has Been Banned in All 50 States

With Zantac banned in all 50 states, you may be looking for alternatives to help manage your stomach acid. It is important to make sure that whatever steps you take are done under the advice of a medical professional.

There are other medications that are effective in reducing stomach acid, heartburn, and acid reflux, such as PPIs, also known as proton pump inhibitors. These medications are often sold as Prilosec or Nexium. While they work well, they come with their own risks and side effects, so you should only take them after you have spoken with your doctor.

You may also undertake lifestyle and dietary changes to help manage your heartburn now that Zantac has been banned. A healthy diet goes a long way. Limiting alcohol, caffeine, and greasy and spicy foods can help lessen your stomach acid. Eating slowly and waiting to sleep or exercise after eating have also been shown to help with these conditions. Even though Zantac has been banned in all 50 states, you still have many safe options for treating stomach acid.

Why Can’t I Find Zantac?

The FDA has recalled Zantac and other ranitidine medication due to the public health and safety risk they pose. Currently, the drug companies that manufactured ranitidine have issued voluntary recalls of these products, including tablets, syrups, and capsules.

Why the FDA Issued a Recall on Ranitidine

In the fall of 2019, a lab found that Zantac contained a higher-than-safe amount of NDMA, a probable human carcinogen. This lab, Valisure, then submitted a petition to the FDA with its findings. The FDA looked into the information and, having found unsafe levels of NDMA in ranitidine, issued a recall.

Zantac’s Availability in the Future

Unless or until there are provable changes to ranitidine, you will not be able to find Zantac in pharmacies. If the pharmaceutical companies are able to ensure the stability of the ranitidine molecules so that they do not lead to increased NDMA, it may be reconsidered for approval.

What Countries Has Zantac Been Recalled in?

What Countries Has Zantac Been Recalled In?

Countries that Have Recalled Zantac

Zantac has been recalled in a variety of countries. The United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and countries across the European Union have all banned the drug, while many other countries continue to review the situation.

More Possible Recalls

Since the revelations about NDMA in Zantac and its generic form ranitidine are still relatively recent, it is possible that more and more countries will recall or restrict this drug. Studies into the dangers of NDMA and its presence in Zantac are still ongoing, and with more information, government regulators may make different choices.

Keeping Track of Ranitidine Recalls

A Zantac lawsuit lawyer will stay up to date on the situation as it develops so that you do not have to. A personal injury lawyer can handle your case and fight for your rights, that way you can focus on healing from the damage these drug companies caused to the people you love.

Should I Be Worried About Zantac?

If you or a loved one has been taking Zantac or its generic form ranitidine consistently, the news of its recall may worry you. While it never does any good to panic, you should still do your due diligence to ensure your health and safety and that of your loved ones.

Cancer Risk in Zantac Use

The high levels of the known carcinogen NDMA present in Zantac and ranitidine can be dangerous if ingested consistently. According to a peer-reviewed article published in The Oncologist, the NDMA in ranitidine “exceeds the allowable daily limit…by nine-fold.” These high rates of NDMA can potentially cause some of the following cancers:

Bladder cancer
Liver cancer
Stomach cancer
Esophageal cancer
Colon cancer
Prostate cancer
Breast cancer
Lung cancer
Thyroid cancer
And many others

In addition to these cancers, NDMA has also been associated with non-cancerous lung, kidney, liver, and bladder damage. These may necessitate organ removals or transplants.

Will Zantac Be Sold Again?

There are no absolutes on whether or not Zantac will ever be sold again. The FDA says that ranitidine drugs will be able to be considered for approval if companies can show that their product is safe.

This would mean that the drug companies would have to have verifiable scientific data to show that the drug is stable and that the levels of NDMA would not increase. Since the NDMA is produced by an inherent instability in the ranitidine molecule, the prospects of them being able to meet this safety standard are uncertain.

In the meantime, heartburn sufferers should reach out to their healthcare providers to come up with an effective but safe treatment plan. There are other types of drugs that can limit stomach acid such as PPIs, as well as dietary and habit adjustments that can give people with heartburn the relief they need.

When Will Zantac Be Back on the Market?

Currently, there is no information on when, if ever, Zantac will be back on the market. The FDA has stated that it will not approve future ranitidine drugs until the pharmaceutical companies can show scientific proof that the fundamental instability of the drug has been addressed.

Zantac Alternatives—Other H2 Blockers and PPIs

In the meantime, you can speak to your healthcare provider about alternative medications. There are still other H2 blockers as well as PPIs available on the market to treat stomach acid issues.

According to MedlinePlus, H2 blockers are used to treat acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). H2 blockers that are still on the market include the following:

Cimetidine (Tagamet)
Famotidine (Pepcid)

In addition to H2 blockers, you can also take proton pump inhibitors, or PPIs.

Esomeprazole (Nexium)
Lansoprazole (Prevacid)
Omeprazole (Prilosec)

According to the FDA, all of these drugs have not been found to contain unsafe levels of NDMA.

Which Zantac Has Been Recalled?

According to the FDA’s Recalls, Market Withdrawals & Safety Alerts, the following drug companies have voluntarily recalled these ranitidine medications:

Amneal Pharmaceutical—Ranitidine tablets, 150 mg and 300 mg, and ranitidine syrup 15 mg/mL
American Health Packaging—Ranitidine tablets, USP 150 mg
Lannett Company, Inc.—Ranitidine syrup 15 mg/mL
Glenmark—Ranitidine tablets 150 mg and 300 mg
Aurobindo & DG Health—Ranitidine tablets 150 mg, ranitidine capsules 150 mg and 300 mg, ranitidine syrup
Sanofi—Zantac 150, Zantac 150 Cool Mint, Zantac 75 (OTC products)
ANI—Ranitidine tablets 150 mg and 300 mg
Northwind—Ranitidine tablets 150 mg and 300 mg
PrecisionDose—Ranitidine oral solution, USP 150 mg/10 mL
GSMS Incorporated—Ranitidine HCI 150 mg and 300 mg capsules
AHP—Ranitidine liquid unit dose cups
Novitium Pharma—Ranitidine hydrochloride capsules 150 mg and 300 mg
Dr. Reddy’s, Kroger, Walgreens, and others—Ranitidine tablets and capsules
Perrigo Company plc—Ranitidine (all pack sizes)
Apotex Corp.—Ranitidine tablets 75 mg and 150 mg
Sandoz Inc.—Ranitidine hydrochloride capsules

What to Do if You Took One of These Medications

If you still have these medications, stop taking them immediately and contact your doctor to discuss your concerns. Dispose of the medication safely and seek alternative treatments for your heartburn that do not have known carcinogens like NDMA in them.

If you or your loved ones have taken any of these listed medications and developed cancer, connect with a Zantac lawsuit lawyer from Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers today to learn your options for pursuing compensation.

When Was Zantac Recalled?

The FDA issued a recall on all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) ranitidine drugs including Zantac on April 1, 2020, per a press announcement. Before that, it had issued a warning in the fall of 2019 that higher levels of NDMA had been found in the drug, advising consumers to speak with their doctors about other options for managing their heartburn.

What the Zantac Recall Means for You

Now that Zantac has been recalled, you will not be able to purchase it or its generic form ranitidine in pharmacies, both over the counter and as a prescription. At the moment there are no plans to reformulate or reapprove Zantac for release to the market.

Alternatives Now That Zantac Has Been Recalled

Alternatives to Zantac exist and should be discussed with your healthcare provider. You may want to try other stomach acid-limiting medications like PPIs or other H2 blockers.

There are also natural ways to limit your stomach acid and acid reflux through dietary and habit adjustments. Your doctor may recommend that you follow a different diet, limiting caffeine, alcohol, fatty foods, and spicy foods. They may also suggest that you eat slower or earlier, and refrain from exercise or sleeping right after eating.

Stress can also be linked to acid reflux. Your doctor can discuss your options for managing your stress levels or implementing lifestyle changes to help with your heartburn.

How Many Times Has Zantac Been Recalled?

Zantac was recalled on April 1, 2020, by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration. This recall request led many drug companies to voluntarily recall their ranitidine products, including tablets, syrups, and capsules. As of now, no ranitidine, including Zantac, is approved by the FDA for use.

Zantac producers are no longer selling ranitidine, and the FDA will not be approving any more treatments involving the drug unless or until it is proven to be stable. Since tests showed that the amount of NDMA in ranitidine increased due to an inherent instability in the drug itself, it is uncertain how successfully the carcinogen can be removed from Zantac.

In addition to the U.S. recall, Zantac has also been recalled in other countries throughout the world. Canada, Australia, New Zealand, France, and other countries in the EU have all banned ranitidine in its many forms. As more studies are completed and information on the presence of NDMA in Zantac becomes more widespread, additional countries may ban the drug.

What Does the FDA Say About Zantac?

According to the FDA, Zantac and other ranitidine medications pose a risk to public health. They have been shown to contain a probable human carcinogenic contaminant called N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA). The FDA says that this impurity has been shown to increase with time and heat, making it potentially dangerous for consumers.

Although low levels of NDMA are found in the food and water we consume every day, these amounts are not great enough to cause injuries. This is why even though the FDA found some NDMA in ranitidine, it did not feel that it was enough to issue a recall.

However, testing from an independent lab—Valisure—has now shown that the amount of NDMA found in ranitidine can increase to dangerous levels under “normal storage conditions.” When stored above room temperature, it “increases significantly.” This includes drugs that have been transported in hot conditions before a consumer ever purchases them.

How Did NDMA Get into Zantac?

NDMA is present in food and water at low, safe levels. It was always in Zantac and other ranitidine, just not in an amount that was necessarily dangerous. However, a Connecticut lab called Valisure found that this level can significantly increase in the drug over time when it is exposed to heat.

The FDA reports that the original source of the NDMA is still under investigation. Currently, it is known that the NDMA was present both in the finished drug and the active ingredients. The NDMA was not shown to be produced through interactions with the stomach or stomach acid but instead seems to be in the makeup of the drug itself.

Valisure cites the inherent instability of the ranitidine itself as the source for the NDMA. As the drug is stored, even in normal conditions, the amount of NDMA increases over time. When the drug is stored above room temperature, as it may be during transport, the increase in NDMA is even greater.

When Was NDMA Discovered in Zantac?

Although NDMA has always been present in Zantac from the time of the FDA’s initial tests of the drug, it was discovered in high levels in preliminary tests on Sept. 13, 2019 according to an FDA press release.

The lab Valisure in Connecticut conducted tests for known carcinogens in ranitidine and found levels of NDMA that far exceeded the FDA’s daily allowable dose. It then filed a petition with the FDA, explaining its findings and communicating the risk that the NMDA in ranitidine posed to the public.

The FDA released a warning of the findings and then conducted its own research. It confirmed that the levels were too high, and then issued a recall on April 1, 2020. This recall banned the approval of ranitidine products in all of their forms—tablets, capsules, syrups, and injectables. Since then, Zantac has been unavailable both as an over-the-counter drug and as a prescription.

What Are the Long-Term Side Effects of Zantac?

According to MedlinePlus, the most common short-term side effect of ranitidine is typically headaches. Patients can also experience diarrhea, constipation, nausea, and stomach pain.

According to Healthline, serious side effects of Zantac include the following:

Liver damage: look out for symptoms like jaundice, fatigue, and dark urine.
Mental effects: symptoms include confusion, depression, disorientation, and blurry vision.
Abnormal heart rate: you may experience fast beating and shortness of breath.

However, these side effects do not take into account the newly discovered presence of high levels of the known carcinogen NDMA in Zantac. NDMA has been found to increase in ranitidine over time and with exposure to heat, potentially reaching dangerously high amounts that can cause cancer and organ damage.

Some cancers that may be linked to the NDMA in Zantac are colon cancer, bladder cancer, stomach cancer, esophageal cancer, breast cancer, testicular cancer, kidney cancer, and many others. If you are experiencing unusual symptoms and have been taking Zantac or ranitidine, reach out to your doctor with your concerns.

What Type of Cancer Does Zantac Cause?

According to a peer-reviewed article in The Oncologist, a survey by Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center showed an increased risk of “breast, testicular, thyroid, and kidney cancer” in patients who took ranitidine. However, these are not the only types of cancer that can potentially be caused by the NDMA carcinogen. If you took ranitidine and developed any of the following cancers, you may be entitled to compensation.

Breast cancer
Bladder cancer
Liver cancer
Testicular cancer
Thyroid cancer
Kidney cancer
Stomach cancer
Colon cancer
Lung cancer
Esophageal cancer
Ovarian cancer
Prostate cancer
Melanoma
And other forms of cancer

Zantac-Related Cancers Found in Animals

The carcinogen that has been found in Zantac, NDMA, has a long history of study in animals. According to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), there is evidence that animals exposed to NDMA through the water, air, and food developed lung and liver damage, including cancer.

If you believe your cancer diagnosis may be linked to ranitidine use, connect with a Zantac lawsuit lawyer from Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers today at (855) 529-0269.

Can Zantac Affect Your Heart?

According to Healthline, one side effect that can come with Zantac use is an abnormal heart rate. Users may experience a racing heartbeat, fatigue, and shortness of breath. In addition to this side effect, Zantac and ranitidine consumers may face additional health challenges caused by the newly discovered presence of high levels of NDMA in the drug.

NDMA’s Effect on the Body

NDMA is a known carcinogen that has been shown to cause cancer and organ damage. Animals who consumed NDMA through food, water, and the air developed cancer as well as non-cancerous damage to their liver and lungs. It is logical to assume that this carcinogen would also affect humans.

Possible cancers that can be caused by the NDMA present in Zantac include, but are not limited to, colorectal cancer, liver cancer, testicular cancer, ovarian cancer, breast cancer, and stomach cancer.

What to Do if You Worry Your Heart Has Been Affected by Zantac

If you have been taking Zantac or its generic form ranitidine and you are experiencing symptoms like racing heartbeat, fatigue, or shortness of breath, consult with your doctor. Also, ask about the possible effects of NDMA on your body and discuss any unusual symptoms with a trusted healthcare professional.

If you have developed any diseases that can be linked to your use of Zantac or ranitidine, you may be able to pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A Zantac lawsuit lawyer from Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers is here to explain your options and defend your rights.

Can Zantac Affect Blood Pressure?

Can Zantac Affect Blood Pressure

In addition to Zantac, NDMA has also been found in other medications, including high blood pressure medications. Antigen receptor blockers, or ARB medications, are used to treat high blood pressure. According to questions and answers on the FDA Drug Safety & Availability page, certain ARBs have been found to have impurities like NDMA that may cause cancer, just like Zantac.

Zantac and High Blood Pressure

Zantac and ranitidine medications do not have a known effect on blood pressure, but that does not mean they are entirely unrelated. Since there are heartburn sufferers with high blood pressure, that means there may be patients who are taking unsafe amounts of NDMA in both their blood pressure medication and in Zantac. If this is the case, you may be at increased risk of cancer, and you should discuss your options for stomach acid and heartburn management with your doctor.

Is Zantac Bad for Your Liver?

Yes, Zantac and ranitidine can damage your liver. The NDMA that can be found in these medications is carcinogenic, and can potentially cause liver cancer, as well as other non-cancerous forms of liver damage.

According to information from the ATSDR, “NDMA is very harmful to the liver of animals and humans.” Even if you do not develop liver cancer, you may still require a liver transplant due to the damage of taking ranitidine.

Diagnosing and Treating Liver Cancer

According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms of liver cancer include the following.

Weight loss
Loss of appetite
Nausea
Abdominal pain and swelling
Fatigue
Jaundice
White stools

If you are showing these symptoms, consult with your doctor. They can run blood tests and imaging tests, as well as perform a liver biopsy to diagnose you. If you have been diagnosed with liver cancer, you may need to undergo liver surgery, liver transplant, and other treatments like chemotherapy and radiation.

These treatments can become expensive. A Zantac lawsuit lawyer can help you recover compensation to offset your medical bills and pain and suffering.

What Is in Zantac that Causes Cancer?

What Is in Zantac That Causes Cancer?

The carcinogen in Zantac is called N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA). According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), NDMA is not currently intentionally produced in the U.S. except for resource purposes. However, it is the unintended byproduct of certain manufacturing practices.

The NDMA found in ranitidine is produced by the instability of the drug, and it actually develops even more overtime and when exposed to higher temperatures. This means that NDMA can not currently be isolated from ranitidine, making it an inherently dangerous, carcinogenic drug.

The FDA has said that the acceptable amount of NDMA in a drug is 96 ng. In a study from a lab called Valisure, it was found that the amount in a tablet of ranitidine exceeded 3,000,000 ng, making it a very high level that is capable of causing cancer with repeated use.

Can Zantac Cause Lung Cancer?

Zantac and ranitidine medication containing NDMA, a known carcinogen, can potentially cause lung cancer. According to information from the ATSDR, animals exposed to NDMA developed lung cancer and non-cancerous lung damage, so it is reasonable that humans can also be harmed by this carcinogen.

Diagnosing and Treating Lung Cancer

According to the Mayo Clinic, “lung cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide.” It can be diagnosed with imaging tests and tissue biopsy. Once diagnosed, it can be treated with surgery, medications, radiation, chemotherapy, and other treatments.

Symptoms of Lung Cancer

According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), symptoms of lung cancer include the following:

Fatigue or weakness
No appetite
Bloody cough or bloody sputum
Chest pain when breathing, laughing, or coughing
A persistent or worsening cough

If you or a loved one are experiencing any of these symptoms, discuss them with your doctor. If you have developed lung cancer and have been taking ranitidine or Zantac to treat heartburn, you may have a claim to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Can Zantac Cause Heart Attack?

At the moment, there is no evidence that Zantac can cause a heart attack; however, that does not mean that Zantac and its generic form ranitidine are safe. In fact, a side effect of ranitidine use is rapid heartbeat and shortness of breath, according to Healthline.

Zantac’s Negative Side Effects on the Rest of the Body

In addition to this side effect on the heart, Zantac may be causing additional harm to the rest of your body. In September 2019, a lab tested ranitidine, the generic form of Zantac, for known carcinogens. It found extremely high levels of NDMA, a probable human carcinogen that has been shown to cause cancer and organ damage. As of April 1, 2020, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has recalled Zantac and other ranitidine products including tablets, capsules, syrups, and injections.

Although Zantac is no longer available in the pharmacy, that does not mean that you are safe from the harm it can cause. If you are experiencing worrying symptoms, speak with your doctor. Tell them about your history of ranitidine use and see if you have symptoms that merit further scrutiny.

Does Zantac Cause Bladder Cancer?

Zantac and other ranitidine medications can cause bladder cancer due to the dangerous levels of a known carcinogen—NDMA—in the drug. If you or someone you love has developed bladder cancer after taking Zantac, a Zantac lawsuit lawyer may be able to help you recover compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Reach out to Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers today at (855) 529-0269 to learn more and to potentially receive your free consultation.

Diagnosing and Treating Bladder Cancer

According to the Mayo Clinic, bladder cancer is often diagnosed at an early stage, meaning that if you have it, you may catch it in time to effectively treat it. However, it is also a cancer that often recurs, which means that recovered patients may still need ongoing care even after they are declared cancer-free. Your lawyer can help you pursue compensation not only for past bladder cancer treatments but also for future bladder cancer checkups.

Symptoms of Bladder Cancer

Some symptoms of bladder cancer that you will want to look out for if you have taken Zantac are as follows:

Blood in urine (may only be detectable by tests)
Frequent and painful urination
Back pain

If you notice these symptoms, go to your doctor.

How Many People Have Died from Zantac?

The number of people who have died from Zantac is difficult to calculate. This is for several reasons, including the newness of the discovery of high levels of NDMA in Zantac, as well as the ongoing nature of this health crisis.

How Recent Discoveries Impact Our Understanding of Zantac-Related Deaths

Zantac has been in use since the 1980s and enjoyed a reputation for safety. Many people have taken it over the course of their lives, and some have since passed without being accounted for as a Zantac-related death.

Now that we know that Zantac and other ranitidine medications can contain dangerously high levels of NDMA, we will be able to better trace the connections between patients with cancer and their Zantac intake.

Zantac Deaths Are an Ongoing Health Crisis

Since Zantac was only pulled from the market recently, there may still be people who will develop cancer or organ damage from their past use of the drug. Cancer victims may also experience cancer recurrences and other long-term impacts on their health caused by their exposure to NDMA. Since this is an ongoing problem, our understanding of the toll Zantac will take on consumers of the drug will evolve over time.

What Are the Chances of Getting Cancer from Zantac?

Currently, the chances of getting cancer from Zantac are not known, but it is reasonable to assume that the high levels of the known carcinogen NDMA found in the drug are dangerous to people.

There is evidence that NDMA causes lung and liver cancer in animals, as well as noncancerous organ damage, according to the ATSDR. Although it has not been proven that NDMA causes the same rate of cancer in people, it is nonetheless considered a probable carcinogen for humans as well.

The Official Word on Cancer Risk from the FDA

The FDA has stated that it does not expect people to be at higher risk of harm when exposed to low levels of NDMA. It explains that the risk of cancer can go up for those who have taken drugs with higher than acceptable levels of NDMA over long periods of time, but that those who take the allowable limit are “not expected to have an increased risk.”

All of this may sound comforting, but this information is misleading. While what the FDA says may be true, it fails to acknowledge that the amount of NDMA found in Zantac is far, far above the allowable amount of 96 ng per day. In fact, a lab called Valisure found that one tablet of ranitidine contained 3,000,000 ng. With levels that high, do not accept the FDA’s claims of low cancer risk at face value. Instead, go to your doctor and discuss your concerns. Take your health into your own hands.

Can Taking Zantac Every Day Be Harmful?

Continued long-term use of Zantac can be harmful to your health, and if you have been taking Zantac every day, you should stop immediately and contact your doctor. Taking Zantac every day may be subjecting you to unsafe levels of NDMA, a known carcinogen that can cause cancer and non-cancerous organ damage with continued exposure.

Types of Cancer Resulting from Daily Zantac Use

If you use Zantac every day, you may be at higher risk for several types of cancer. If you are noticing unusual symptoms, reach out to your doctor and explain your symptoms and daily Zantac use. They can then evaluate if you need more tests or treatment.

Other Harmful Effects of Daily Zantac Use

In addition to the increased risk of cancer caused by NDMA exposure, you may also experience other negative effects associated with daily Zantac use. You may develop non-cancerous liver damage, racing heartbeat, stomach pain, headache, and indigestion.

Can You Become Dependent on Zantac?

You can potentially become dependent on Zantac or other H2 blockers, since continued usage over time may cause the stomach to produce more acid. This increased acid can cause an upset stomach and heartburn, leading you to use higher dosages of Zantac to decrease the acid. The higher dosage, the more your stomach wants to produce acid, and so on and so forth. This feedback loop can lead some people to feel dependent on Zantac for their comfort.

National Public Radio (NPR) has reported that a type of drug called PPIs, or Proton Pump Inhibitors, can actually cause more heartburn and that h2 blockers like ranitidine have been considered a less drastic (and less effective) remedy. However, that does not mean Zantac and other ranitidine medications are the better options. With the discovery of unsafe levels of NDMA in Zantac and ranitidine, heartburn sufferers should discuss their stomach acid management options with their healthcare providers to find the best alternative.

What Is the Cancer-Causing Ingredient in Zantac?

Zantac has been found to contain unsafe levels of the known carcinogen NDMA, which seems to be produced by the drug ranitidine itself over time, particularly when exposed to higher temperatures. This is because the ranitidine molecule is inherently unstable, so the NDMA can not simply be removed from Zantac.

NDMA has been associated with lung and liver cancer in animals and is also a likely human carcinogen. In high levels like those found in Zantac, it may be linked to a variety of cancers and organ damage. A large number of cancers may be linked to NDMA exposure from ranitidine use.

If you believe that you have been exposed to this cancer-causing component in Zantac, then reach out to your doctor to discuss your concerns. If you or someone you love has developed cancer and have a history of taking Zantac, a Zantac lawsuit lawyer from Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers may be able to help you pursue compensation.

What Are the Health Risks Associated with PPIs?

According to Healthline, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) differ from H2 blockers like Zantac in several ways. While both drugs reduce stomach acid production, PPIs are considered “stronger and faster.”

Side Effects of PPIs

According to a peer-reviewed article published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), there is some evidence of a causal relationship between PPIs and the following side effects.

Gastric neoplasia (stomach cancer)
Renal disease (kidney failure)
Dementia
Liver disease
Certain nutritional deficiencies

Since PPIs come with their own risks and side effects, consult your doctor to determine if they are a good alternative to Zantac for you.

How Do I Know if My Cancer Was Caused by Zantac?

Since studies about Zantac and its link to cancer are still ongoing, you may not know if your cancer was caused by Zantac. However, since Zantac has been found to contain higher than acceptable levels of the known carcinogen NDMA, you may have a claim to compensation if you can show that you have a history of taking ranitidine medications and that you subsequently developed cancer.

Your Zantac lawsuit lawyer can help you build a case to show that your illness is linked to the drug. That way you can hold the pharmaceutical companies responsible for their negligence while recovering the money you need for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Things that can help you prove the link between your illness and Zantac include the following:

Medical records: these can attest to your cancer diagnosis and history of stomach acid issues. They can also speak to the cost cancer has taken on you and your family.
Prescriptions: these can prove your history of taking Zantac and other ranitidine heartburn medications.
Receipts: if you only took over-the-counter ranitidine, receipts can also show your history of Zantac usage.
Witnesses: witnesses can speak to your Zantac usage and the impact cancer has had on your life.

Should I Talk to My Doctor if I Used to Take Zantac?

If you used to take Zantac, you should talk about it with your doctor for several reasons. On one hand, they can assess you for any adverse effects of taking Zantac and consuming NDMA. On the other hand, they can help you develop an alternative treatment plan for your heartburn that does not include ranitidine medications.

Ask Your Doctor About Conditions Caused by NDMA

Your doctor can discuss with you the risks associated with exposure to a carcinogen. They can also check if you have any symptoms that may be associated with NDMA-related cancers and organ damage.

Ask Your Doctor About Stomach Acid Management Alternatives

Your healthcare provider can also advise you of alternatives to Zantac. You may still suffer from heartburn, indigestion, and acid reflux. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, NDMA has not been found in the following medication alternatives:

Famotidine (Pepcid)
Cimetidine (Tagamet)
Esomeprazole (Nexium)
Lansoprazole (Prevacid)
Omeprazole (Prilosec)

Should I Stop Taking Zantac?

The FDA advises that you stop taking Zantac and other ranitidine medications. This is because they have been shown to have unsafe levels of NDMA, a probable human carcinogen. The amounts of this dangerous compound increase over time and when exposed to higher temperatures. Since the drugs can be in higher than room temperature conditions during transport, they may contain unsafe levels of NDMA before you even take them off the pharmacy shelf.

Since the recall, ranitidine has been banned nationally and has been voluntarily recalled by the drug companies. It should not be available for purchase, and if you still have Zantac around the house, do not take it. Instead, dispose of it using safe methods.

Since Zantac has long been a trusted drug to treat heartburn sufferers, consumers may be tempted to take it to relieve their pain. Given the risks of NDMA, it is advisable to find alternatives. Your healthcare provider can discuss options with you to manage your stomach acid without exposing yourself to a carcinogen.

Some things that can reduce your heartburn without taking Zantac, according to Harvard Women’s Health Watch, are as follows.

Eat Less, Eat Slow

A full stomach is more likely to produce too much acid and cause acid reflux into the esophagus. By eating less and extending your meal over a longer period of time, you are reducing the likelihood of heartburn.

Eat Healthily

The types of foods you eat can also impact your stomach acid. Particular trigger foods for heartburn are as follows.

Fatty foods
Alcohol
Mint
Spicy foods
Tomatoes
Garlic
Onions
Coffee
Tea
Chocolate

Reduce or eliminate your consumption of these foods if you find they cause acid reflux.

Stay Upright

If you eat right before bed, you are potentially increasing your likelihood of having heartburn. Gravity can keep stomach acid where it belongs—your stomach. After you eat, stay up for a bit. Also, consider sleeping on an incline if heartburn persists.

Exercise, particularly exercise that involves bending over, can also make stomach acid rise up into your esophagus. Move slow, stay upright, and you are less likely to have acid reflux.

Consult Your Doctor

Lastly, check in with your healthcare provider to see if there is anything specific about your situation that may be leading to stomach acid issues. Your doctor may recommend that you change the medications you take, that you lose weight, or that you quit smoking or drinking. Only your healthcare provider can get a full picture of your medical needs, so it is a good idea to talk to them about alternatives to Zantac.

Do You Have to Wean Off Zantac?

You do not have to wean off Zantac or other ranitidine medications. There are no dangerous side effects associated with stopping your use of the drug cold turkey; however, there are some unpleasant symptoms you may experience, such as increased heartburn, acid reflux, nausea, indigestion, and stomach pain. Although you may feel that you are psychologically dependent on the drug, you will not face any life-threatening consequences from quitting.

Other Ways to Decrease Stomach Acid Instead of Taking Zantac

When you stop taking Zantac, you may want to follow certain habits that can decrease your stomach acid naturally. Consider eating slowly and healthily, limiting your consumption of alcohol, quitting smoking, and avoiding sleep and exercise right after eating. All of these have been shown to naturally reduce stomach acid issues.

Additionally, there are other medications, both over-the-counter and prescription, that your doctor may recommend instead of Zantac. These drugs can have their own complications, so it is important to only take them at the advice of your healthcare provider.

Does Zantac Have Withdrawal Symptoms?

There may be unpleasant symptoms associated with suddenly quitting Zantac if you are a habitual user. You may experience increased stomach acid production, acid reflux, stomach pain, nausea, heartburn, and indigestion. However, you will not experience any lethal withdrawal symptoms. Here are symptoms you may face and some tips for dealing with these symptoms that you may experience:

Heartburn and Acid Reflux

To reduce heartburn, try to practice healthy habits. Eat slowly and eat healthy foods. Avoid caffeine, spicy foods, and fatty foods. Also, try to stay upright after you eat. Do not exercise or go to bed, and instead give your stomach time to digest while gravity keeps your stomach acid where it belongs. There also may be other medicines that your doctor can recommend or prescribe to help with these symptoms.

Stomach Pain

Stomach pain can be treated with heat. Apply a hot water bottle or heating pad to the painful area to experience some relief while you wait for time to resolve the issue. Stay hydrated and consider taking over-the-counter pain relievers if approved by your doctor.

Nausea

Certain foods have been shown to be helpful in reducing nausea. The BRAT diet is a classic remedy, and it consists of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. Bland foods without spice or fat are good for reducing nausea. Just as with reducing heartburn, you can also reduce nausea by eating slowly and in small amounts. If nausea persists, reach out to your doctor.

What Happens When You Stop Taking Zantac?

When you stop taking Zantac, your stomach may rebel a bit. Since Zantac reduces the amount of acid your stomach produces, your stomach may want to ramp up its production in response. This means that when you suddenly stop taking an H2 inhibitor like Zantac, you may be sick to your stomach for a bit.

Acid reflux, indigestion, heartburn, nausea, and stomach pain may all affect you after you stop taking Zantac. If these symptoms persist, consider contacting your doctor to learn more about alternative stomach acid management options.

What Are the Health Risks Associated With PPIs?

There are many health risks associated with PPIs. PPIs stands for proton pump inhibitors, a type of drug that reduces stomach acid.

While PPIs play an important role in managing certain conditions, they can also cause serious health problems, including an increased risk of bone fractures, kidney disease, and certain infections.

If you suffer from health problems associated with PPI use, reach out to the team at Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers today by calling (855) 529-0269. The sooner you call, the sooner we can get to work on your case.

Do You Have To Wean Off Zantac?

If you have been taking it to treat acid reflux or a similar condition, you should talk to your doctor about whether you have to wean off Zantac. They can provide more information specific to your health condition and what alternative medications you can take.

If you or a loved one developed cancer or another health complication as a result of taking Zantac, a personal injury lawyer from our team may be able to represent you in a claim or lawsuit for compensation.

What Happens When You Stop Taking Zantac?

If you’re considering discontinuing Zantac use, you may want to know what happens when you stop taking Zantac after prolonged usage. Some side effects and withdrawal symptoms you could experience are related to increased stomach acid production, including upset stomach and indigestion.

While most of these are not life threatening, they can be highly uncomfortable and cause more serious health conditions if left untreated. If you were harmed by Zantac use and are now considering discontinuing its use, we can help you think through your legal options and fight for your case.

Does Zantac Have Withdrawal Symptoms?

Yes, Zantac can have withdrawal symptoms, as is the case with discontinuing most other medications. If you stop taking Zantac, you could experience increased amounts of acid in your stomach along with stomach pain.

While these may not be life-threatening concerns, they can cause severe discomfort and patients are advised to consult their primary care provider before taking action. By working with a doctor, patients can plan a safe and comfortable weaning-off process.

Contact Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers Today

If you or someone you love has developed cancer and has a history of taking Zantac or its generic form ranitidine, you may have a case. A Zantac lawsuit lawyer from Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers can help you recover compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering due to your cancer diagnosis.

Time is limited, and class actions are already underway. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can get started fighting for you. Call today at (855) 529-0269 to learn more about our firm and to receive your free case evaluation.