Last fall, consumers were shocked to learn that a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) analysis of heartburn drug Zantac (ranitidine) had found “unacceptable” levels of NDMA (N-nitrodosodimethylamine) — a chemical that may cause cancer. The FDA has requested that all ranitidine be recalled in April 2020.
You can learn all you need to about the frightening connection between Zantac and cancer.
Why was Zantac/Ranitidine recalled?
The FDA discovered low levels of NDMA in Zantac, a probable cancer-causing agent. The FDA issued a voluntary withdrawal at the time, and advised consumers to consider alternative treatments.
The FDA conducted more extensive tests and analyses over a period of six months, concluding that cancer risks are too high. They stated, “The Agency has determined that impurities in some ranitidine product increase over time, and when stored above room temperature, and could result in the consumer being exposed to unacceptable levels.”
The FDA announced a recall on April 1, 2020 of all ranitidine-containing products, including Zantac.
Which Ranitidine products were withdrawn from the market?
Sanofi Zantac was the most popular heartburn drug, but at least 16 other companies also sold it before the recall. Ranitidine has been recalled from other products.
- AHP — Ranitidine Liquid Unit Dose Cups
- American Health Packaging — Ranitidine Tablets
- Amneal – Ranitidine Tablets & Ranitidine Syrup
- Ranitidine 150mg and 300mg Tablets
- Apotex Corporation – Ranitidine Tablets
- Aurobindo & DG Health — Ranitidine Tablets
- Dr. Reddy’s — Ranitidine Capsules & Tablets
- Glenmark — Ranitidine Tablets 150mg and 300mg
- GSMS Incorporated – Ranitidine HCl 150mg and 300mg
- Lannett Company, Inc. — Ranitidine Syrup
- Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc. – Nizatidine Capsules
- Northwind — Ranitidine Tablets 150mg and 300mg
- Novitium Pharma — Ranitidine Hydrochloride Capsules
- Perrigo Company plc – Ranitidine Tablets
- PrecisionDose — Ranitidine Oral Solution
- Sandoz Inc. — Ranitidine Hydrochloride Capsules
When should I stop taking Zantac/Ranitidine?
Yes. The FDA advised consumers to stop using Zantac and dispose of them. They also said not to purchase the drug again. If you need to continue treating your acid reflux or heartburn, “consider using other OTC [over the counter] products.”
You should speak to your doctor if you currently take Zantac and ask about alternatives.
I was diagnosed with cancer. Can I file a Zantac lawsuit?
Maybe. Consumers who claim to have developed cancer after taking Zantac have filed more than 230 lawsuits. In these lawsuits, consumers are seeking compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering and lost wages.
Speak with an attorney about your eligibility for a Zantac suit. It costs you nothing to hire an attorney in most cases. They only get paid when you win.
You can take the first steps to rebuild your life and secure your family’s financial future if you have been diagnosed with cancer following Zantac use.
