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.
What You Need to Know About Zantac Withdrawal Symptoms
Zantac is a member of the class of drugs referred to as H2 blockers. Zantac and drugs similar to it work by suppressing acid production in patients and, thereby, eliminating or dramatically reducing heartburn and indigestion symptoms.
However, if you are discontinuing Zantac, you can face withdrawal symptoms. One of the most common side effects of stopping Zantac is increased acid production and stomach pain, according to Healthline. Even though the drug works by suppressing acid production, discontinuing use of Zantac can lead to what is known as rebound acid hyperproduction.
According to Healthline, the symptoms of increased stomach acid production may include:
- Severe stomach cramping
- Diarrhea
- Bloating
- Indigestion
- Heartburn
- Reduced appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Weight loss
- And more
Complications of Increased Stomach Acid Production
While these symptoms may not be life-threatening, they can be extremely unpleasant. If left untreated, they also have the potential to cause more serious illnesses.
With increased stomach acid production, you could be at risk of developing:
- Gastrointestinal bleeding
- Peptic ulcers
- And more
There are a number of ways to taper off the drug safely and alternatives patients can use as replacements. A physician can review your medical records and advise you on which withdrawal solution will work best for you.
Mitigating Stomach Acid Symptoms After Discontinuing Zantac Use
The key to a manageable withdrawal from Zantac revolves around planning and taking steps to mitigate the negative side effects. Steps you can take to lessen withdrawal symptoms include:
- Try a Zantac alternative like Prilosec, Nexium, Pepcid, or others.
- Keep a log of what you eat and how you feel to identify which foods trigger indigestion so you can eliminate those from your diet.
- Avoid lying down or sitting in a reclined position for at least an hour after eating.
- Limit your consumption of citrus juices and carbonated beverages.
- Avoid eating soon before going to sleep.
Whether you decide to try a Zantac alternative or opt to make lifestyle changes, the actions you take can have a dramatic impact on how you feel.
Background on the Zantac Recall
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requested a voluntary recall of all Zantac products in April of 2020. This recall came after multiple tests showed a correlation between the drug and serious illnesses, including cancer.
Since its recall, individuals across the country have been discontinuing the use of Zantac—and have participated in Zantac lawsuits.
If the illness you’re suffering from is the result of Zantac use, you may be able to seek compensation for your medical costs and losses. We can help.
Damages You May Be Able to Seek in a Zantac Lawsuit
If you had cancer because of your use of Zantac, you could face thousands of dollars in medical costs and significant impacts on your life. We can help you fight to recover these losses, including:
- Pain and suffering, reflecting the degree of your pain and severity of your life challenges
- Medical costs, including hospitalization, testing, chemotherapy, other forms of therapy, medications, emergency room visits, doctors’ visits, and more
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity, reflecting the income you were unable to earn because of your illness
- And more
We will work to include your past, present, and future costs and losses into your case value. We will fight to seek the fairest possible compensation on your behalf.
Keep in mind that you may have a limited amount of time to file a lawsuit, according to Florida’s statutes of limitations. We advise getting started on your case as soon as possible in order to protect your legal options.
Call Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers if You Were Injured by Zantac Use
At Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers, we have one mission—to act as an advocate for injured families across the state. Our founders, Jason and Debi Chalik, personally take on each case and have recovered millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for victims like you.
In your free case evaluation, you can ask us if:
- You may have a valid case for a Zantac lawsuit
- How much compensation you may be able to seek
- How we plan to represent you in your Zantac case
- And more
What’s more, our legal services are provided on a contingency-fee basis. That means that we collect nothing unless and until you win your case. Call (855) 529-0269 to speak with a member of our team for free.
