Frequently Asked Questions About The Zantac Lawsuit
If you have been paying attention to medical news, you are probably aware of recent studies that revealed that Zantac contains high levels of the cancer-causing chemical N-nitrosodimethylane (NDMA). If you or a loved one has been taking Zantac, it’s likely you have a lot of questions. Here are some common Zantac FAQ’s along with the information you need to know.
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Does Zantac Cause Cancer?
Yes.
The active ingredient in Zantac, ranitidine, has been shown to have high levels of NDMA. The FDA, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the World Health Organization (WHO) all classify NDMA as a carcinogen.
The ranitidine molecule is made up of a nitrate and a dimethylamine group which combine to form NDMA. Ranitidine reacts with itself to produce NDMA. Therefore, every form of ranitidine, including Zantac, exposes users to NDMA.
There have been many studies that have been conducted to prove the harmful effects of NDMA including the following:
- A 1995 study revealed that NDMA can increase the risk of gastric cancer in persons exposed to more than .51 ng a day.
- A 1995 study showed NDMA can increase the risk of aerodigestive cancer in individuals exposed to more than .179 ng a day.
- A 1999 study showed that those taking medication with NDMA on a daily basis doubled their risk of developing colorectal cancer.
- A 2000 study looked at workers in the rubber industry who worked with NDMA on a daily basis. Research revealed that the exposure increased the risk of cancer in the brain, esophagus, oral cavity, pharynx and prostate.
- A 2011 study showed that dietary exposure to NDMA increased the risk of all types of cancer
- A 2014 study showed that there was an association between NDMA and colorectal cancer.
How Was the Zantac Cancer Link Revealed?
The online pharmaceutical company Valisure issued a Citizen’s Petition to the FDA to recall Zantac and other ranitidine products when their testing revealed high levels of NDMA in 2019. Their research revealed that there was more than 2,600,000 ng of NDMA in one 150 mg tablet. With the FDA daily limit set at 96 mg., this exceeds the legal limit by about 28,000 times.
Why is Zantac Being Recalled?
As a response to Valisure’s petition, several drug manufacturers and retailers decided to recall the medication. GlaxoSmithKline and Teva Pharmaceuticals were among the drug makers who issued recalls.
Although the FDA did not issue a recall, they did release a statement ordering all Zantac manufacturers to conduct NDMA testing to determine whether the products contained excessive levels of NDMA.
Is Zantac An Impurity?
No, Zantac is not an impurity and it is not contaminated in any way. The high levels of NDMA are inherent to the molecular structure of ranitidine. Therefore, the medication is defective by design.
The misleading information that Zantac is contaminated may be coming directly from the FDA. In a statement the organization released, they referred to the medication as an impurity. Not only is this not technically correct information, it also protects the drug manufacturers in a way that is likely to confuse the public and mask the severity of the issue.
Should I Stop Taking Ranitidine?
Yes.
While the product is being investigated, patients should stop taking ranitidine and consult their physicians to find alternative medication.
Is There a Safe Zantac Dosage?
No.
All products have revealed high levels of NDMA and, therefore, the medication should be avoided completely.
What Type of Cancers Have Been Linked to Zantac?
Zantac can increase the risk of many types of cancer including the following:
- Uterine cancer
- Bladder cancer
- Thyroid cancer
- Colorectal cancer
- Testicular cancer
- Esophageal cancer
- Stomach cancer
- Intestinal cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Kidney cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Liver cancer
- Lung cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
What are Some Good Alternatives to Zantac?
Some good Zantac alternatives include the following:
- Prevacid (lansoprazole)
- Prilosec (omeprazole)
- Tagemet (cimetidine)
- Pepcid (famotidine)
Pepsid and Tagament are recommended for chemotherapy patients who are experiencing gastrointestinal issues.
All of these medications have been tested and shown to contain no NDMA. Talk to a doctor to find the one that’s right for you.
What Legal Action Can I Take if Zantac Has Had a Negative Effect on My Life?
If you or a loved on has developed cancer as a result of taking Zantac, you deserve to be compensated. The right lawyer can help you get the justice you deserve. A lawyer can help you recoup damages including a loss of wages, medical expenses and emotional pain and suffering.
There are many personal injury and wrongful death lawyers who are skilled at getting their clients the results they are looking for. Research carefully to find one that is right for you.
The Zantac company knew they were selling products that contained harmful chemicals, yet they continued to sell them knowing they were putting millions of innocent people at risk. If you were one of these individuals, don’t let them get away with it. Call a reliable Zantac lawyer today.