Zantac Cancer FAQ

Thursday, September 10, 2020

Zantac Cancer FAQ

Written by Malman Law, reviewed by Steve J. Malman.

A carcinogen found in Zantac and ranitidine is now known to be associated with several different types of cancers. If you took this medication, you likely have many questions regarding your legal rights and what should happen next.  

If you took Zantac or generic ranitidine, you might have heard about it causing some forms of cancer. Taking this medication, whether for a short period of time or even decades, for heartburn likely brought relief for your discomfort but now has taken away your peace of mind. On April 1, 2020, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) instructed the makers of Zantac and ranitidine medications to remove these drugs from the market because of the danger of developing cancer.

What is NDMA?

High levels of N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) were found in samples of Zantac in late 2019. The U.S. FDA, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the World Health Organization (WHO) classify NDMA as a cancer-causing chemical. Zantac is a defective and dangerous drug that is capable of causing cancer because of NDMA. 

This compound is inherent to the molecular structure of ranitidine. Unlike other recalls or health concerns with impurities or contaminations, every dose of Zantac contains NDMA. In fact, studies show that it contains 28,000 times the legal limit or the equivalent of smoking between 500 and 6,200 cigarettes.

Which Types of Cancer are Associated with Zantac NDMA?

Zantac has been linked to many types of cancers. These include but may not be limited to:

1. Bladder cancer
2. Breast cancer
3. Esophageal cancer
4. Intestinal cancer
5. Kidney cancer
6. Liver cancer
7. Lung cancer (for non-smokers)
8. Ovarian cancer
9. Pancreatic cancer
10. Prostate cancer
11. Stomach cancer
12. Testicular cancer
13. Thyroid cancer
14. Uterine cancer

Should You Stop Taking Zantac?

Yes, you should immediately stop taking all forms and dosages of Zantac or ranitidine. Talk to your doctor about acceptable safe alternatives, as there are many available. Continuing to take this medication can increase your risk of developing cancer. 

Who is Liable for Your Damages?

There is published scientific information that links NDMA to cancer as early as the 1970s. Zantac place on the market in the early 1980s. It is suspected that the manufacturers of Zantac and ranitidine knew it contained NDMA and that NDMA could cause cancer. As such, these manufacturers could be found liable in a court of law for your damages if you were diagnosed with cancer after taking one of these drugs.

Do You Need a Zantac Attorney?

Never assume that you do not have a Zantac claim. If you or someone you love took any form of Zantac or ranitidine and later received a cancer diagnosis, you could have a claim. It is best to consult with an experienced Zantac personal injury attorney who can determine if your claim is valid. If so, they can guide you on what the next steps will be. 

You can receive your free no-obligation Zantac consultation with the knowledgeable personal injury attorneys at Malman Law today. Call (312) 629-0099 or use our convenient online contact form.