Pharmacies and other major retailers across the United States have reportedly started pulling generic versions of Zantac from their shelves after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) alerted patients and health care professionals of a possible link between the popular heartburn medication and a probable human carcinogen known as NDMA.
Although an official recall has not been issued by the FDA or the drug’s manufacturer, some drugstores and retailers (including CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid, and now Wal-Mart) are taking action out of “an abundance of caution” while the drug is evaluated further.
If you or your loved one has been injured after using Zantac, or a similar drug containing ranitidine, contact Attorney Group today. Affected patients and their families may be able to pursue a claim and recover compensation with the help of a personal injury attorney.
We offer free, confidential, no obligation consultations. We can help answer your questions, and if you choose to pursue a claim, we can connect you with an affiliated attorney who can assist you throughout the legal process.
FDA: Low Levels of Probable Human Carcinogen Found in Some Heartburn Medicines
Ranitidine, which is often sold under the brand name Zantac, is a H2 (histamine-2) blocker used to treat certain conditions associated with heartburn, ulcers, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Ranitidine works by decreasing the amount of acid created by the stomach and is available with a prescription or as an over-the-counter medication.
On September 13, 2019, the FDA issued a warning to patients, health professionals and pharmacies after the agency discovered low levels of a nitrosamine impurity called N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) in some ranitidine medicines, including generic forms of Zantac.
According to the FDA, NDMA is “classified as a probable human carcinogen (a substance that could cause cancer)” and is a “known environmental contaminant” found in water and many of the foods we eat.
At this time, the FDA is not telling patients to stop taking medications containing ranitidine while they continue to investigate any potential risks. Patients who use Zantac and similar medications to treat heartburn are encouraged to talk with their doctor about other OTC alternatives available to them at their pharmacy.
How Can an Attorney Help?
Drug makers have a duty to provide safe products. If there are risks of harm associated with their products, they also must provide adequate warnings. If a drug maker fails to fulfill this duty, it could be held liable in lawsuits for injuries that may result.
People injured by Zantac and other similar heartburn medications containing ranitidine may be able to recover money for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
The families of those who have died may be eligible to recover money for funeral expenses and the pain that comes with losing a loved one.
The Time You Have to Pursue a Claim is Limited. Contact Us for More Information.
If you or your loved one has been injured by Zantac or a similar drug, contact Attorney Group to learn about your options.
We offer free, no obligation consultations. We can help answer your questions, and if you choose to pursue a claim, we can connect you with an affiliated attorney who can assist you throughout the legal process.
