If you take Zantac to relieve symptoms from overproduction of stomach acid, ask your doctor whether you should stop taking it. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has found a cancer-causing ingredient in this drug. The FDA recommends that you stop using this medication, but ultimately, you should consult your doctor before making any changes.
If you took Zantac and developed adverse health complications, consider talking to a lawyer from our team. Depending on your situation, you may be entitled to financial compensation from Zantac’s manufacturers.
The Carcinogen Found in Zantac
In September 2019, Valisure, an online pharmacy, found high levels of N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) during its routine testing of Zantac and its generic version, ranitidine. Valisure found Zantac tablets containing more than 3,000,000 ng of NDMA, well above the acceptable limit of 96 ng per tablet. NDMA is a known carcinogen, which means that it can cause cancer.
The FDA independently tested Zantac and found NDMA levels below 3,000,000 ng but still above the accepted threshold. It determined that Zantac samples contained NDMA right after production, and the levels increased over time when above room temperature.
Based on these results, the FDA requested a voluntary manufacturer’s recall of Zantac and ranitidine. This recall means that prescription and over-the-counter Zantac will no longer be available. The FDA suggests that Zantac users should speak with their healthcare providers about other treatment options.
How NDMA Affects the Body
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies NDMA as a probable human carcinogen, meaning that it likely causes cancer in humans. Studies have demonstrated that NDMA exposure causes tumors to develop in animals, so the same could be true for humans who ingest it. The most common locations where tumors grew were in the liver, respiratory tract, kidneys, and blood vessels.
The EPA also states that overexposure to NDMA can cause short-term effects such as dizziness, headaches, fever, jaundice, nausea, abdominal cramping, and vomiting. Long-term effects can include an enlarged liver and reduced function of the liver, kidneys, and lungs.
Zantac Blocks Stomach Acid Production
According to the Cleveland Clinic, Zantac has been used for years to reduce stomach acid by blocking its production. Lower levels of stomach acid allow the body to heal while still properly digesting food. When the stomach produces too much acid or the acid leaks out of the stomach, it can cause several common digestive problems. Many doctors have previously prescribed Zantac for the following:
- Acid reflux (heartburn): A burning sensation in the chest or throat, sour taste in the throat, or difficulty swallowing
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Chronic acid reflux symptoms
- Erosive esophagitis: Erosion, irritation, inflammation, or ulceration of the esophagus
- Ulcers in the stomach and intestines: Sores in the lining of the stomach or small intestine
If you take Zantac for any of these conditions, reach out to your doctor to discuss alternative medications. Continued use of this drug may put your health at risk.
Zantac with NDMA Is a Defective Product
There are laws to protect consumers from dangerous and defective products, such as medications contaminated with NDMA, like Zantac. Even if they did not realize that it contained this cancer-causing ingredient, Zantac’s manufacturers are responsible for any negative effects it causes.
You Could Recover Compensation for Your Injuries
If you used prescription or over-the-counter Zantac for heartburn, GERD, erosive esophagitis, or ulcers, you may have been exposed to NDMA. Those who used Zantac for a long time or at higher doses may have been exposed to higher NDMA levels than people who only used it occasionally.
If you developed cancer, an enlarged liver, or experienced reduced liver, kidney, or lung function after taking Zantac, you may be entitled to financial compensation known as damages. Your damages may compensate you for:
- Medical expenses, such as diagnostic tests, medications, doctor’s appointments, and surgeries
- Lost wages, if you are unable to work because of your health
- Pain and suffering, if you become depressed or anxious, develop insomnia, face a lengthy recovery, or otherwise experience reduced quality of life
How a Lawyer from Our Team Can Help Zantac Users
Once you talk to your doctor about whether you should stop taking Zantac, consider your legal options. Trying to seek damages on your own can feel overwhelming. A personal injury lawyer from our team could help you navigate the process.
You may choose to pursue a claim with the insurance provider for Zantac’s manufacturer, or you may prefer to move forward with a lawsuit. Our firm can help you:
- Prepare the necessary documentation and paperwork
- Gather evidence to support your claim
- File an insurance claim
- Negotiate a settlement
- File a lawsuit on your behalf and represent you in court
Get a Free Zantac Lawsuit Case Evaluation Today
The team at Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers may be able to help you seek damages for health problems caused by NDMA exposure through Zantac use.
Call us today at (855) 529-0269 to begin a free case evaluation. The sooner you call, the sooner we can get started on your case.
