Zantac Linked to Multiple Forms of Cancer
Zantac (ranitidine) was a popular medication used to treat symptoms of medical conditions of the throat and stomach, such as heartburn, ulcers, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). However, studies found a link between the drug and a person’s risk of developing cancer.
Medical researchers discovered N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), a probable human carcinogen, in multiple batches of ranitidine. High levels of NDMA in the body can cause various unpleasant side effects and eventually lead to cancer.
According to lawsuits, manufacturers Boehringer Ingelheim and Sanofi-Aventis knew about the dangers of their drug but chose not to disclose the adverse side effects on warning labels. Many long-term users of Zantac and ranitidine developed various types of cancer or other serious medical problems.
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The Dangers of NDMA Contamination
N-Nitrosodimethylamine is an odorless liquid substance. It used to be a major chemical in antioxidants, rocket fuel, and lubricants. NDMA can contaminate the air, drinking water, food, and other things people encounter every day.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced that 96 nanograms of NDMA is the maximum acceptable limit. During one particular study of contaminated Zantac, researchers found up to 3,267,868 ng of NDMA in each tablet.
According to scientists, a chemical reaction caused by direct contact between ranitidine and water leads to the formation of NDMA. Levels can increase over time, especially if stored at temperatures above room temperature.
An adverse reaction between ranitidine and a person’s stomach acid can also lead to high levels of NDMA. During a study, researchers found levels between 23,600 ng and 304,500 ng in their test subjects.
Stanford University performed an independent study of the effects of ranitidine on a group of participants. Researchers took a sample of each person’s urine before they took a 150 mg tablet of ranitidine. Researchers tested everyone’s urine again, and the results showed an increase in the level of NDMA. The levels rose from 110 ng to as much as 47,600 after taking the drug.
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Adverse Effects of Zantac
Regular use of Zantac or ranitidine contaminated with NDMA can lead to a range of health problems, such as:
- Hair loss
- Hepatitis
- Nervous system disorders
- Liver failure
- Vitamin B-12 deficiency
- Low blood platelet levels
- Jaundice
- Increased risk of pneumonia
- Skin rashes
- Irregular or rapid heartbeat
Cancer can also develop from long-term exposure to high levels of NDMA. The most common types of cancer Zantac users have reported include:
- Kidney cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Brain cancer
- Liver cancer
- Thyroid cancer
- Esophageal cancer
- Bladder cancer
- Throat cancer
- Stomach cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Lung cancer (in non-smokers)
- Breast cancer
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FDA Issues Recall of Zantac
The FDA requested manufacturers to withdraw all ranitidine products from the market on April 1, 2020. The recall included over-the-counter and prescription forms.
After completing new tests and evaluating the results of studies third-party laboratories performed, the FDA found a significant increase in the levels of NDMA over time, even if they were stored correctly. The FDA also concluded that the toxic chemical found in older Zantac pills and ones manufactured long ago could reach high levels.
The manufacturers forced to recall their Zantac and ranitidine products include:
- Sanofi-Aventis
- Sandoz (Novartis)
- Novitium Pharma LLC
- GlaxoSmithKline (GSK)
- Perrigo Company PLC
- Amneal Pharmaceuticals
- Precision Dose Inc.
- Aurobindo Pharma USA
- Apotex
- Denton Pharma Inc
- Golden State Medical Supply Inc.
- Denton Pharma dba Northwind Pharmaceuticals
- Appco Pharma LLC
- Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories
- Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Inc.
- Lannett Company Inc
- Pfizer
- American Health Packaging
Manufacturers in 43 countries also issued recalls, warnings, and bans of their Zantac (ranitidine) products.
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Possible Compensation in a Zantac Lawsuit
The physical and emotional effects of NDMA contamination can last a lifetime. A cancer diagnosis can disrupt your regular routine and decrease your quality of life. You likely need extensive medical care to treat your symptoms and try to cope with what happened.
Learning about the misconduct of a manufacturer you thought you could trust can be overwhelming. It is your right to hold the company liable for the harm you suffered and pursue the compensation you need to cover your medical treatment and other incurred costs.
The compensation you receive in a lawsuit against the negligent manufacturer could cover a range of losses, such as:
- Medical expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Lost wages
- Lost earning capacity
Speak to a Dedicated Defective Product Lawyer from DeMayo Law Offices
Since 1992, the legal team of DeMayo Law Offices has fought on behalf of our clients to secure the maximum possible compensation owed to them. We understand the devastation of developing cancer or another medical condition from medication you thought was safe. You can depend on us to advocate for your rights and aggressively pursue the money you’re owed so you can treat your illness and move forward with your life.
If you were diagnosed with cancer or another health issue after taking Zantac or ranitidine, do not hesitate to contact DeMayo Law Offices. We can meet with you for a free consultation to discuss the circumstances of your case and determine whether you’re eligible for a lawsuit against the manufacturer. Call us at (877) 333-1000 today.
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