The FDA has Recalled Zantac Due to its Link to Cancer.

Zantac, generically known as Ranitidine, is a popular acid-reflux and heartburn medication used to treat ulcers of the stomach and intestines, and certain stomach and throat (esophagus) problems. Zantac was available by prescription and over-the-counter (OTC).

On April 1, 2020, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requested manufacturers immediately withdraw Zantac from the market. The FDA’s recall follows an investigation of an impurity or contaminant known as N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), which is found in Zantac. The FDA “has determined that the impurity in some ranitidine products increases over time and when stored at higher than room temperatures and may result in consumer exposure to unacceptable levels of this impurity.”

Per the FDA, “NDMA is a probable human carcinogen (a substance that could cause cancer).” The FDA advises that OTC users stop using Zantac and to dispose of all tablets or liquid that remain safely. For prescription users, the FDA recommends you should consult with your prescribing doctor for alternatives. You can read the full news release here.

NDMA has been classified by the FDA, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the World Health Organization (WHO) as a carcinogen. According to Bloomberg, the FDA pulled a blood-pressure pill in 2018 that contained NDMA levels as high as 17 micrograms. According to Bloomberg, Zantac and its generics were found to have NDMA levels as high as 3,000 micrograms, or more than 29,000 times the acceptable daily intake limit for NDMA at 0.096 micrograms.

Why Manufacturers are Responsible.

Lawsuits allege that Sanofi and Boehringer Ingelheim, the companies that make Zantac, concealed the Zantac cancer link from millions of people who took the drug. This deception came as the companies made unprecedented profits from Zantac, the first drug to generate $1 billion in sales.

Manufacturers of drugs, such as Zantac, must warn consumers of know defects. When manufacturers conceal vital information and injuries result from the concealment, the manufacturers should be held responsible for the cover-up.

What to Do if You Took or Are Currently Taking Zantac.

If you are taking prescription Zantac, talk with your doctor about alternatives. Do not stop taking any prescription without first consulting with your doctor. If you are taking OTC Zantac, you should look for other options and safely dispose of all remaining doses.

You may have a claim against the manufacturer if you have taken Zantac for at least a year and developed cancer. You must act fast to preserve your legal rights. By completing the form below, we can start a complimentary preliminary investigation to see if you qualify for a claim. No fees or litigation expenses are charged unless we win your case. If no recovery is obtained, you are not charged anything for the services provided by our office.

Zantac is a registered trademark of Sanofi. This law firm is not associated with, sponsored by, or affiliated with the FDA, EPA, WHO, Sanofi, Boehringer Ingelheim, or Bloomberg. 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.