If you’re not aware of the Zantac recall and class action lawsuit, the FDA found that this over-the-counter medication (along with otheracid-reducing meds) contains a high amount of a cancer-causing impurity. The medication within Zantac containing the cancer-causing impurity is called Ranitidine, and according to the FDA, there is 26,000 times more of the impurity than the FDA allows. This has been linked to cancer in frequent users.
What is the Cancer-Causing Impurity?
The carcinogen found in the Ranitidine within Zantac is called N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA). This chemical was originally created for assisting in the production of rocket fuel. It stopped being used by manufacturers because it contaminated all the areas surrounding the manufacturing plants, including the soil, air and water. Since the discontinuation of NDMA, it is still being found around these industrial sites. This chemical can be dangerous when it is ingested, which can happen by eating contaminated food or drinking contaminated water.
Why is NDMA dangerous?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has NDMA classified as a possible human carcinogen. It was given this classification because it can alter human DNA. Although previous testing on animals indicated that NDMA did cause cancer in the test subjects, the increase in human cancer cases has not been consistent enough for a clear determination. Because Zantac is an OTC medication and contains more than the allowed amount of NDMA from the contaminated Ranitidine, a recall for Zantac was issued.
What Symptoms are Common with NDMA Overexposure?
Not everyone who took Zantac will get cancer, especially if it was only taken periodically. Those who took it regularly for an extended period of time should watch for symptoms of overexposure including:
- Fever
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Jaundice
- Dizziness
- Abdominal cramping
Anyone who took Zantac in the past and is experiencing these symptoms should consult their physician as soon as possible.
What Types of Cancer Can NDMA Cause?
Ranitidine contaminated with NDMA can cause the following types of cancer:
- Bladder
- Colorectal
- Esophageal
- Intestinal
- Kidney
- Liver
- Ovarian
- Pancreatic
- Stomach
- Testicular
- Uterine
What to do if You Think Your Cancer Diagnosis Could Be From Taking Zantac
After consulting your physician, reach out to us if you need help. We understand all of the important information regarding this Zantac case and what needs to be done moving forward.
About the author: Brandon Duber, a Partner with Bentoff & Duber Co., LPA, is a lawyer with proven experience in the courtroom and expertise in the areas of workers’ compensation, criminal defense, personal injury and medical malpractice law. He received his B.A. from Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs, NY and his J.D. from The Case Western Reserve University School of Law in Cleveland, OH.