After a months-long investigation, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has formally asked manufacturers to take ranitidine products (Zantac) off the market. Testing began in October of 2019, after the online pharmacy, Valisure, filed a citizen’s petition with the FDA. Final results revealed ranitidine, when stored at or exposed to certain temperatures, contained an unsafe excess of N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA). NDMA is a probable human carcinogen, which means the substance is capable of causing cancer.
What Should I Do If I Have Zantac?
In addition to sending removal letters to all ranitidine manufacturers, including Sanofi, the manufacturer of Zantac; the FDA is recommending that consumers stop taking ranitidine immediately. Those who have Zantac in their home should dispose of it safely and not purchase more, according to the FDA.
If you still need heartburn relief, Pepcid, Nexium, or Prilosec are better options for now. So far, FDA testing has not revealed NDMA in these other options.
Will I Get Cancer?
NDMA is capable of causing cancer but will only do so if enough of the environmental contaminant accumulates in the body. In small doses, NDMA is relatively harmless and can even be found in water, grilled meats, dairy, and vegetables. The FDA’s recommended NDMA limit is 0.096 micrograms per day. Although many of the ranitidine products exceeded this limit during testing, taking 1 or 2 pills for occasional heartburn may not increase your risk for cancer.
On the other hand, daily use and/or use for one (1) year or more may lead to digestive cancers and other diseases. You may be able to sue for increased risk, but if you have already been diagnosed with cancer, you should pursue legal action immediately.
Who Is Responsible?
To avoid liability, stores like CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart stopped selling Zantac in September. By October, Sanofi had recalled Zantac “due to inconsistencies in preliminary test results.”
With its latest announcement and request for removal, the FDA has largely dismissed these inconsistencies and affirmed that Zantac is unsafe “unless its quality can be assured.”
As a result of these recent developments, Sanofi will likely be responsible for cancer diagnoses associated with Zantac.
Many lawsuits have already emerged.
How Can I Get Legal Help?
If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer or you’re worried about an increased cancer risk after extended use of Zantac, please call Casey Law Offices, S.C. at (414) 272-5564.
Once you schedule your free consultation, Attorney John P. Casey will walk you through your legal options and help you take the next step.
Consultations are free of charge and we are available 24/7. What are you waiting for? Contact us by phone or online today and start getting the help and treatment you need!