A potentially dangerous chemical known as NDMA (N-Nitroso-dimethylamine) has reportedly been found in Zantac and other ranitidine drugs, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. NDMA in Zantac could pose a serious risk for patients, since the chemical has been classified as probably carcinogenic (that is, capable of causing cancer) in humans.

Basics of Zantac

Zantac (also known by its generic name, ranitidine) is an acid reducer medication commonly used to treat stomach and throat problems. Zantac is used to relieve acid symptoms like stomach pain, cough, heartburn, and difficulty swallowing by reducing the amount of acid made by the stomach.

Zantac Side Effects

As with any medication, Zantac comes with certain side effects. Mild complications include issues like headache, constipation, or diarrhea.

Unfortunately, Zantac has also recently been linked with an unexpected risk: the FDA announced in mid-September that it had found the possible carcinogen known as NDMA in Zantac and other ranitidine medications.

The risk was first brought to the attention of the FDA by the online pharmacy and laboratory company Valisure, which says it found NDMA in ranitidine during routine testing and informed the FDA of initial findings in June 2019.

According to the FDA statement, “some ranitidine medicines, including some products commonly known as the brand-name drug Zantac, contain a nitrosamine impurity called N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) at low levels. NDMA is classified as a probable human carcinogen (a substance that could cause cancer) based on results from laboratory tests.”

The federal agency noted that it would continue to examine the levels of NDMA in Zantac and other ranitidine-based drugs to evaluate the potential risk for patients.

In response, Sandoz (a subsidiary of Novartis) which makes a generic form of ranitidine, has issued a voluntary recall for the drug.

After Sandoz’s recall, Apotex Corp. issued a similar voluntary recall on its over-the-counter ranitidine tablets. Stores like CVS, Walgreens, Walmart, and Rite-Aid are now pulling generic versions of the drug from their shelves.

The FDA is in the process of testing ranitidine products from a variety of manufacturers to determine the levels of NDMA in the drugs, as well as evaluate the potential risk to patients. The agency has asked that manufacturers send samples of their ranitidine products to the FDA for testing, and has also asked that they conduct their own tests of their ranitidine products for NDMA levels and risk to patients.

Filing a Zantac Lawsuit

If you have taken the medication Zantac and have since developed complications stomach or bladder cancer, you may be able to file a lawsuit and pursue compensation. Of course, filing a lawsuit cannot take away the pain and suffering caused by complications like cancer, nor can it bring a loved one back to life, but it can at least help to alleviate the financial burden incurred by medical expenses, lost wages, and more.

Filing a lawsuit can be a daunting prospect, so Top Class Actions has laid the groundwork for you by connecting you with an experienced attorney. Consulting an attorney can help you determine if you have a claim, navigate the complexities of litigation, and maximize your potential compensation.