/sites/default/files/2014-03/documents/ffrrofactsheet_contaminant_ndma_january2NDMA gets into Zantac due to the instability of ranitidine, the core ingredient in Zantac.
Studies on ranitidine have shown that the amount of NDMA in the drug increases over time and when exposed to higher temperatures.
NDMA is a probable human carcinogen, and levels of NDMA found in Zantac can be dangerously high. If you were harmed by Zantac use, you may be able to seek compensation.
Why Zantac Is Dangerous
If you have taken Zantac in the past, it is important to know about recent findings that may link Zantac to a variety of cancers.
According to Harvard Health Publishing, Zantac (also known as ranitidine) was an H-2 blocker available both over-the-counter (OTC) and via prescription. Zantac was a popular medication used to treat heartburn, acid reflux, and other stomach acid issues.
Zantac was widely used since its development in the 1980s, and the drug enjoyed a reputation of relative safety. This changed with the discovery of higher levels of NDMA in the drug.
How NDMA Was Discovered in Zantac
According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), NDMA is a carcinogen that can be found as a contaminant in our drinking water. Although it is not harmful in trace amounts, it can be carcinogenic in high levels.
According to the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the acceptable daily amount of NDMA is 96 ng. However, the NDMA in Zantac was found to be present in far greater levels. The independent lab known as Valisure found 3,000,000 ng of NDMA in a single tablet. After this discovery, they submitted a petition to the FDA with their findings.
They determined that the NDMA in Zantac was not a contaminant—it was not coming into the drug from an outside source. Instead, the high levels of NDMA resulted from the conditions under which ranitidine was stored. NDMA was found to increase over time and when the drug was exposed to higher temperatures.
Zantac Was Recalled from the U.S. Market
Once the FDA was aware of Valisure’s findings, they conducted their own tests to verify the information. Once they were sure that ranitidine contained dangerously high levels of NDMA, they issued a recall on all forms of the drug, both over-the-counter and prescription.
Due to this recall, ranitidine cannot be purchased in all 50 states. Other countries have followed suit and banned ranitidine, including Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and parts of Europe. As more information is uncovered about the risks of the drug, additional nations may restrict or ban Zantac as well.
Zantac’s Impact on the Body
NDMA has been shown to cause cancer in animals, and it is reasonable to think it may have a similar effect on the human body. If you have taken Zantac and have later developed any of the following diseases, you may have a claim for compensation.
- Stomach cancer
- Esophageal cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Testicular cancer
- Breast cancer
- Colorectal cancer
- Bladder cancer
- Liver cancer
- Kidney cancer
- Lung cancer
- Non-cancerous liver damage
- Non-cancerous bladder damage
We can evaluate your case and advise if you have a claim against the negligent drug company that made this dangerous drug.
Zantac’s Impact on Your Life
The diseases that can be caused by NDMA can be devastating for you and your loved ones. When you get sick, you may face high medical bills for the treatments and surgeries you need to get better. Your disease may prevent you from working, taking away a needed source of income at a difficult time.
At Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers, we understand this–and we want to help. We can help you recover damages to compensate for your medical bills, lost wages, lost earning potential, and pain and suffering.
Contact Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers Today
If you or someone you love developed cancer after taking Zantac, you may be entitled to seek compensation to help cover your resulting medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
We can help you by:
- Gathering evidence to show that you were diagnosed with cancer or another illness
- Demonstrate a link between your use of Zantac and your diagnosis
- Show that you suffered financial and non-financial losses as a result of your illness
- Determine a case value and advocate for your compensation
- Handle all negotiations on your behalf
- Take your case to court, if needed
- And more
At Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers, we care about our client’s wellbeing and we want to help you get the money you may be owed after the drug companies’ negligence left you hurt. Call a team member at Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers to learn more about how NDMA got into Zantac how we can fight for you. Call us at (855) 529-0269.
