Research highlights the possible link between Zantac and other ranitidine medications and certain types of cancer. Specifically, contaminated N-nitrosodimethylamine
(NDMA) found in ranitidine classifies as a carcinogen. Leading government organizations, such as the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA), and universities now recommend that you discontinue the use of Zantac immediately to limit your possible cancer risk. This does little for you if you have already taken the drug in the past. In fact, more frequent and long-term exposure to ranitidine may put you at an increased risk of developing cancer.
Treating cancer is expensive and painful. Some patients diagnosed with cancer each year lose their lives due to their conditions, especially if they discover cancer in its later stages. If a drug company marketed a product as a safe medication for you to take while it caused your cancer, you can choose to hold the manufacturer responsible for your injuries.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer, injured by Zantac, or died as a result of using ranitidine, contact Pintas & Mullins Law Firm at (800) 635-1144 for a free consultation. There is no obligation to move forward with your case. We can provide you with answers to your questions and provide ways that you can proceed forward with your potential case.
What Is Zantac?
Zantac is a brand name version of the medication ranitidine, which is a type of histamine-2 blocker that works by reducing the volume of stomach acid your body produces. It was commonly available in the United States as an over the counter way to treat heartburn and the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease, often known by its acronym GERD. For other conditions, such as stomach and intestinal ulcers, Zantac could help to prevent and treat these conditions.
On a long-term basis, your doctor may have advised you to take Zantac more regularly to help manage medical conditions where your stomach produces too much stomach acid. This includes medical conditions, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. The active ingredient in Zantac, ranitidine, could have been prescribed as a pharmaceutical intervention from your pharmacy in different doses than what was available in the over the counter version in the United States over the past few decades.
Zantac is a medication that is designed to treat stomach problems. Zantac is the brand name for medications marketed by Sanofi that have the chemical Ranitidine as the active ingredient. It was available over-the-counter (OTC) in two strengths, as well as by prescription for higher strength doses. Zantac, for the most part, is removed from the market except for prescription sales. This is because the U.S. Food & Drug Administration issued a voluntary recall because recent research studies showed the Zantac can naturally produce NDMA (N-Nitrosodimethylamine) as it breaks down.
Reasons for Using Zantac
Zantac, more specifically Ranitidine, is designed to affect the stomach’s internal processes. Essentially, it reduced the amount of stomach acid that the stomach produces. Stomach acid breaks down food for further processing in the stomach and intestines. While your stomach is naturally protected against its own acid by a mucus lining, that acid can still cause health problems in several organs. Zantac can be used to address a variety of problems, including stomach ulcers and intestine ulcers, which are caused by stomach acid damage to unprotected tissue.
Many people with chronic digestive system problems used Zantac to treat their conditions. For example, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is a condition that causes your digestive system to produce too much stomach acid. Taking Zantac regularly reduced the amount of acid to normal levels, preventing damage throughout their digestive systems.
Types of Zantac Injuries
Zantac can lead to a variety of injuries depending on each case. The majority of these injuries are hard to determine a direct cause for. However, studies showed a correlation between Zantac usage and injuries. One of the most well-known injuries from taking Zantac is cancer due to its NDMA contamination. Studies conducted by the FDA and research by Harvard shows that NDMA is a possible carcinogen and lab tests show a heavy correlation between NDMA exposure and developing cancer.
Zantac is also responsible for organ damage. Ranitidine works by adjusting the hormone levels in your stomach and digestive organs to reduce the production of stomach acid. It can also affect how other organs act, which can result in damage. For example, it can cause liver swelling which puts stress on liver tissue and can cause blockages. Other organs can be damaged over time leading to other serious health issues.
Hiring a Lawyer Is Beneficial to Your Case
Zantac is being phased out of the market to prevent future problems with NDMA contamination. However, that does not mean that the manufacturer of Zantac cannot be held accountable. Many people assert that through proper testing, Zantac’s manufacturers should have known that the level of NDMA in Zantac was high enough to cause health problems. The effects of NDMA have been known for some time, so the company needed to take action to ensure that it was not exposing patients to NDMA.
If you believe that your medical injuries and expenses are related to the use of Zantac, consider taking legal action against the company. You may be able to recover compensation for your medical and other expenses. Before making any decision, consult a lawyer to see what your legal options are.
Possibly Recoverable Compensation
A lawsuit against the makers of Zantac would be a personal injury lawsuit. Because of the nature of this case, there are class action lawsuits being developed that you can join. However, you can also file an individual lawsuit. The goal of this lawsuit is to recover compensation for expenses related to taking Zantac and developing a condition or injury. You can expect to recover:
- Medical expenses: Most lawsuits will focus on medical expenses since the medical treatment of injuries related to Zantac can be expensive. It often takes extended care and multiple medical opinions to treat medication injuries.
- Legal expenses: The legal expenses can be extensive as well, and lawyers for major cases are likely to ask for compensation for their fees and expenses. This is especially true during class-action lawsuits to help cover the costs of defending multiple clients.
- Lost wages: Missing work because of a medical injury takes away from the amount that you earn, creating a financial burden for patients.
- Wrongful Death compensation: If a family member dies because of complications from taking Zantac, you can sue the company for wrongful death claims. While it will not help bring that person back, it can help you recover from final expenses and related problems.
There are other types of expenses that are not covered on this list. For expenses to be claimed in court, your lawyer will collect different forms of evidence from different sources. The expenses must be linked to the injuries or treatment of the injuries caused by taking Zantac, which your lawyer can prove with the right documentation.
What Is Ranitidine?
Ranitidine is the active ingredient in Zantac and similar medications. It is an antacid, which means it reduces the amount of stomach acid that your body produces, according to Medline Plus. It is also an antihistamine, which is used to fight allergies. Ranitidine is used to treat a variety of allergies and stomach problems, like GERD. One of its primary uses was to treat stomach ulcers, which can be painful. It could successfully reduce ulcers until they heal and prevent them if taken proactively. It is an H2 antagonist, a class of medication that has several other options on the market.
Ranitidine has been on the market for decades until the FDA’s voluntary recall on all ranitidine products. It has mostly disappeared from the U.S. market since. Ranitidine products should be avoided because of the potentially dangerous NDMA contamination that triggered the recall. There are alternatives on the market that you can switch to that work the same way but do not have the same side effects.
Ranitidine is the active ingredient in Zantac and is at the heart of the reason why Zantac was removed from consumer markets. Major organizations, like the University of Utah Health, are reporting on the FDA’s decision to issue a voluntary recall for all ranitidine products. Ranitidine is an antacid and antihistamine that reduces the amount of stomach acid produced by the digestive system and fights inflammation.
Ranitidine Uses
Ranitidine was used to treat conditions related to stomach acid production. It adjusted the hormones that are responsible for triggering stomach acid production so that the amount of stomach acid being made is lowered. It treated conditions like:
- Acid reflux: Acid reflux is a condition where the muscle that seals the top of the stomach shut fails to keep stomach acid from entering the esophagus. Reducing the overall amount of stomach acid reduces the chance of this happening.
- Esophagitis: By reducing the amount of stomach acid, damage to the esophagus is less likely.
- Gastritis: Gastritis includes any condition that creates inflammation in the lining of the stomach.
- Stomach ulcers: Stomach ulcers are damaged or irritated tissue in the lining of the stomach. They can be painful until they heal.
There are many other conditions that can be treated with ranitidine that are not covered on this list. If you experience any of these conditions, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Preventive care and early intervention are effective ways to ensure that you minimize lasting effects of issues associated with stomach conditions.
History of Ranitidine
Ranitidine was created in the late 1970s and was used commercially for the first time several years later. Throughout its lifespan, ranitidine was promoted as a vital medication for many conditions.
In 2017, concerns over the findings of several research studies became public information, which triggered an FDA investigation. These studies found NDMA—a possible carcinogen for humans—in Zantac tablets from several manufacturers. The FDA tried to repeat the results of the study but struggled to get an exact duplication. However, it did find that NDMA could be found at elevated levels in the urine of people that had recently taken Zantac. When the concerns over the possible NDMA contamination become a major concern, the FDA recalled it.
In 2020, the FDA issued a voluntary recall for all ranitidine products, including Zantac. Although the recall was voluntary, most retailers complied and removed ranitidine medications from shelves and pharmacies. Even the manufacturers stopped production and sales. This made ranitidine products extremely difficult to come by in the U.S. market. Although it is not outright banned from sale in the U.S., the voluntary recall made it inaccessible to nearly everyone.
Ranitidine Settlements
Cases are being built against the manufacturers of ranitidine products. Many of these cases assert that the manufacturers should have known that NDMA could be found in their products. Manufacturers have a responsibility to thoroughly study their products and prevent harm to consumers. Consumers who have developed any of the many potential side effects and medical conditions related to taking ranitidine may have a case against the manufacturers. These cases focus on recovering compensation for medical bills and other expenses.
Ranitidine Alternatives
There are several alternatives to ranitidine on the market. Ranitidine is just one of several medications of the same class, and there are multiple classes of medications that can be used in similar ways. Some of the alternatives to ranitidine include:
- Nexium
- Prevacid
- Prilosec
- Tagamet
- Pepcid
There are other alternatives available that are not covered on this list. Tagamet and Pepcid are H2 histamine receptor antagonists, like ranitidine. The others are proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). When switching to any of these or other options, consult your doctor first. There is always a possibility of adverse effects when changing medications. Your doctor can monitor your condition and help prevent these adverse effects before they become serious.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ranitidine
One of the most frequently asked questions about ranitidine involves the development of cancer. Ranitidine naturally produces NDMA as it breaks down through digestion or over time. NDMA is a possible carcinogen, a chemical that can cause cancer. It has been linked to multiple types of cancer that form along the digestive system. Ranitidine itself does not cause cancer, but the fact that it creates NDMA means that it is linked to multiple types of cancer.
For a free legal consultation with a Zantac Lawyer serving nationwide, call (800) 635-1144
Can I File a Zantac Lawsuit?
In the United States, you are able to take legal action against any person or company that harms you. This includes a lawsuit against a pharmaceutical company that sold a drug it claimed to be safe when it contained a carcinogen. If you or a loved one took Zantac or ranitidine and have been diagnosed with a form of cancer, you could choose to file a Zantac lawsuit. You may receive compensation related to your injuries, medical treatments, and pain and suffering.
Generally, you will need to prove that you took, purchased, or were prescribed the medication. This can come in the form of sales receipts, prescription records, or a note from your doctor that recommended you take the medication. Although Zantac was available as an over-the-counter medication, there are prescription strengths and variations of ranitidine, too. If you have any questions about whether you could file a lawsuit against the manufacturers of Zantac or related medications, you can discuss your claims with a Zantac ranitidine cancer lawyer.
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Can I File a Lawsuit on Behalf of a Loved One Who Was Affected by Zantac?
Can I file a lawsuit on behalf of a loved one who was affected by Zantac?
Usually, you file a lawsuit on your own behalf, as long as you are able to do so. If there is a reason your loved one cannot file a lawsuit on their own behalf, then you might be able to do so. For instance, if your loved one is incapacitated or died as a result of their injuries, you could file a lawsuit on their behalf. If you are not sure if you are eligible to file a Zantac lawsuit on behalf of everything else, you can discuss your potential legal case with a lawyer who can give you more specific guidance.
In legal cases where loved ones file lawsuits on behalf of other people, it often is a spouse or family that files the lawsuit. This can include children, siblings, and grandchildren. Any compensation recovered goes toward the victim or their estate to cover medical bills.
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What Kind of Compensation Can I Get if I File a Zantac Lawsuit?
What kind of compensation can I get if I file a Zantac lawsuit?
If you file a Zantac lawsuit you can expect to recover several types of compensation commonly found in personal injury lawsuits. Compensation for your medical expenses is the most common type sought in lawsuits. You can also seek lost wages compensation, which covers the amount of pay that you missed from your job if you were unable to work.
In some cases, pain and suffering compensation can be asked for if the conditions of a victim’s experience meet a standard of extreme stress and other extensive problems. It is designed to help the victim recover by providing funding for mental healthcare and to ease the everyday financial burdens of the victim.
In the most extreme cases, you may be able to seek wrongful death compensation. You can only ask for this type of compensation if a loved one dies and fits the criteria for the lawsuit. Not every family member can file a wrongful death claim against the makers of Zantac. Discuss it with a lawyer before taking any form of legal action
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What Should I Look for in a Zantac Lawyer?
What should I look for in a Zantac lawyer?
When it comes to hiring a Zantac lawyer, there are some traits that you may want to look for. First, you ideally want to find a lawyer who handles cases involving pharmaceutical injury cases. Additionally, you want to work with a Zantac lawyer that will aggressively pursue your case and stand up for you throughout the process of a settlement or in the courtroom.
Last, you want to find a legal team that will listen to you and support you throughout the process. It can be difficult and overwhelming to deal with cancer caused by Zantac on its own. Having someone on your side to manage the legal aspects of your case can help to limit what you have to manage. Contact Pintas & Mullins Law Firm at (800) 635-1144 to learn more.
Will Zantac Cover Medical Expenses for Cancer Victims?
Will Zantac cover medical expenses for cancer victims?
You can sue the company that manufactures Zantac to cover your medical expenses, rehabilitation and therapy expenses, home health aides, and pain and suffering related to any cancer caused by your taking Zantac. If your loved one died as a result of their cancer diagnosis, loved ones could sue the company on their behalf.
It is important to differentiate between Zantac and a product containing ranitidine marketed by the company Sanofi. Several of the prior Zantac lawsuits have been directed at Sanofi. Other products containing the active ingredient ranitidine can be contaminated with NDMA, the carcinogen that causes the cancer cells to develop. If you have been injured as a result of taking any medication with ranitidine, you could be entitled to monetary compensation to cover your medical costs and other expenses from its manufacturer. If you have any questions about whether your type of cancer is associated with Zantac usage or what kind of monetary compensation you could expect, you can discuss this with a lawyer.
Can I Get My Money Back from Zantac?
Can I get my money back from Zantac?
Whether you will be able to get your money back from Zantac depends on a few factors, including where you purchased the medication, how long ago you purchased the medication, and if you have a copy of the receipt. Any unused Zantac purchased just before the FDA issued a voluntary recall can often be returned to the pharmacy or the big box store where the medication was purchased from. Some national chains issued their own policies about returning any unused Zantac through the appropriate means, so be sure to check with the retailer you made the purchase from.
If you took Zantac in the past and did not suffer any injury or a cancer diagnosis, there is likely not a way to get a refund on Zantac that you already used. If you have been diagnosed with any type of cancer or another condition linked to ranitidine, you can get your money back by either filing a personal injury lawsuit against the drug’s manufacturer or by joining a class action lawsuit.
What Is the Zantac Settlement Value?
What is the Zantac settlement value?
The settlement value for all Zantac lawsuits are different and depend on the nature of the case. It can be difficult, if not impossible, to predict an accurate number that you can expect your Zantac lawsuit to be worth. In fact, there is no guarantee of compensation for any lawsuit that you file. Any estimate that you receive is likely an educated guess based on the details of your specific case and what similar cases garnered in the past.
Past Zantac lawsuit settlements have been worth compensation somewhere in the millions of dollars. One case secured more than $1 billion. Some of these cases have been class action lawsuits, where any sums of money awarded are divided among the injured. More money tends to be awarded for more serious cases of cancer or where a loved one died. This does not mean that you will not be able to file a lawsuit if your cancer was caught early or successfully treated.
Who Can File a Zantac Lawsuit?
Who can file a Zantac lawsuit?
Anyone that has been injured by Zantac can file a lawsuit. The ranitidine in Zantac could contain NDMA, which is a possible carcinogen. If you have had cancer after taking Zantac, then you are eligible to file a lawsuit. The key to determining if Zantac can be held responsible is the likelihood that Zantac caused your specific condition or injury. Cancer cases have a higher chance of correlating with Zantac use since NDMA is believed to cause cancer. There are other conditions that can be related to Zantac, though.
The relatives of someone who has been injured by Zantac may be able to file a lawsuit against Zantac. The person that was injured must be unable to file the lawsuit themselves for this type of case to quality; however, the direct relatives of someone who died from a condition that could be related to Zantac use may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
What Should I Do if I Used To Take Zantac?
What should I do if I used to take Zantac?
If you used to take Zantac, then ask your doctor what steps you need to take to prevent or diagnose any of the problems that Zantac can cause. Your doctor can schedule testing and other forms of analysis to see if you may be developing a related illness. If anything is found, seek medical treatment as soon as possible.
When you are able, consult with a lawyer to see what your options are. If you have extensive medical expenses or other expenses related to an illness caused by Zantac, you can seek compensation for them. This should help you recover financially from the problems that Zantac caused.
There are already lawsuits forming against the manufacturers of Zantac, including several class-action lawsuits with hundreds of defendants. That means that you can file a separate lawsuit or coordinate with a class-action case where everyone tries the same case against the company at the same time.
Why Was Zantac Recalled?
Zantac was recalled because of an impurity caused by its active ingredient, Ranitidine. After extensive use over decades, several research institutions were prompted to look into ranitidine as a potential cause of multiple health problems. Studies have shown that Ranitidine can create NDMA as it breaks down. NDMA (N-Nitrosodimethylamine) can cause cancer in humans according to extensive lab testing, and the FDA classified it as a possible carcinogen.
Multiple organizations tested Zantac to see if they could replicate the problem and reported their findings to the FDA. While the FDA did not produce the same results, it did find the findings troubling enough to issue a voluntary recall on all ranitidine products. This included Zantac and all generic versions of ranitidine products. The concern is that ranitidine would continue to break down into NDMA, and long-term exposure would cause an increased risk of developing cancer, organ damage, and organ failure.
Why Was Ranitidine Taken Off the Market?
Why was ranitidine taken off the market?
Ranitidine was removed from the U.S. market through a voluntary recall by the FDA. Although participation is optional, most retailers complied with the request to stop selling or manufacturing of ranitidine products. The manufacturer even stopped producing Zantac and the other generic products, making it nearly impossible to get anywhere in the U.S. market.
Ranitidine was recalled because of NDMA contamination. NDMA is a possible carcinogen, meaning it could cause cancer. It can also cause organ damage, which can be fatal if untreated. Since there was a potential risk of developing cancer to people taking Zantac and other ranitidine medications, the FDA and organizations around the world had it removed from their respective markets.
If you or a loved one was injured because of taking Zantac, you have the right to seek compensation. Contact Pintas & Mullins Law Firm at (800) 635-1144 to speak to our legal team about building your case. The compensation could help with bills and expenses related to the accident.
Where Is Zantac Banned?
Zantac is banned in most places around the world by each area’s respective health management organization with several notable exceptions. These bans are designed to stay in effect until further research shows that ranitidine can be manufactured and used safely. The most notable places where it has not been banned are the U.S. and India. India’s regulatory body issued a warning to the manufacturer and the public about the dangers of ranitidine.
In the U.S., the FDA issued a voluntary recall to have manufacturers and retailers remove Zantac from the market. The recall was voluntary, meaning any of the retailers could decide to keep selling Zantac. The vast majority complied with the request, and the manufacturer stopped producing Zantac. It is not officially banned in the United States, but it is very hard to find because of a dwindling supply and few places that will sell it.
Has Zantac Been Taken Off the Market?
Has Zantac been taken off the market?
Zantac has been taken off of the market nearly everywhere around the world, even in places where it has not been banned because of the manufacturer’s decision to stop producing Zantac and similar medications. Most countries banned the manufacture or sale of Zantac entirely, while other places have made it difficult to acquire or sell. In the U.S., the FDA’s voluntary recall convinced most of the retailers to stop selling Zantac in any form. This includes the generic ranitidine products and prescription forms of Zantac.
The manufacturer of Zantac for the U.S. market stopped production, effectively cutting off the supply of Zantac entirely. It is still legal to possess and sell Zantac if it is available since it has not been legally banned. While it was not forcibly removed from the market, it was removed through less aggressive means and a general distrust of the medication.
Is All Ranitidine Being Recalled?
Is all ranitidine being recalled?
The recall that affected Zantac was not focused on Zantac. It was focused on any product that contained ranitidine, of which Zantac was the most notable option. Some companies, like Walgreens or Walmart, sold a generic version of Zantac under store specific brand names. They are almost identical to Zantac with some very minor modifications. By branding it differently, retailers could sell it at a lower price. All of these products in any dosage have been recalled because of its potential health effects.
While ranitidine is being recalled, there are other medications on the market that are the same class as ranitidine but are still being sold. The NDMA problem is limited to ranitidine. Only ranitidine products are being recalled. If you possess ranitidine products, you are not required to turn them in. You can see your physician for testing to see if there were any negative impacts and to see about switching to a new medication.
Is Zantac Banned in All 50 States?
Is Zantac banned in all 50 States?
Zantac is banned in several countries around the world. Their individual regulatory bodies decided to ban the sale or production of ranitidine products until conclusive research could prove that it is safe. Even the FDA in the United States recalled ranitidine products, including Zantac. The FDA issued a voluntary recall, which makes participation optional after warning people of the potential dangers. Retailers complied and the manufacturer chose to stop production, but Zantac was not banned in the United States.
Zantac may not have been banned in the United States, but it is next to impossible to get even with a prescription. Nearly every source stopped selling it during the FDA recall. On top of that, the manufacturer decided to stop production. With the safety concerns and several places around the world stopping the sale of the medication, there was no longer a need for high production levels anymore.
Why Can’t I Find Zantac?
It is difficult to find Zantac on the market now because it is not available from retailers and the manufacturer. Since the FDA recalled ranitidine products, the vast majority of retailers decided to stop selling all versions of ranitidine. This includes the generic versions of Zantac and all dosage variations of ranitidine.
Some of the retailers that had Zantac supplies disposed of them or at least pulled them from store shelves. They also refuse to sell any ranitidine products because of the potential liability. The manufacturer of Zantac is facing personal injury lawsuits from people that have developed serious health conditions that are likely associated with their extended use of Zantac. The retailers are trying to avoid these lawsuits by stopping the sale of ranitidine products now that it is widely known that they are dangerous.
If you are struggling to find Zantac, see your doctor about changing medications. There are other options on the market that do not have the same problems as ranitidine.
What Countries Has Zantac Been Recalled In?
What countries has Zantac been recalled in?
Zantac has been recalled in every country that it was sold in. Most of the major countries around the world banned ranitidine products pending further investigation. The United States and India are notable holdouts to banning Zantac, although they have taken other measures to improve public safety. The U.S, issued its own recall through the FDA to reduce ranitidine product sales across the country.
The manufacturer of Zantac, GlaxoSmithKline, issued a recall for all forms of ranitidine from every market that it was sold in. Because it was recalled by the company, retailers made sure to quickly comply with the request and pulled Zantac from shelves. Other countries have followed the same process to try to limit people’s exposure as much and as fast as possible. These recalls are set to stay in place until research can show that ranitidine no longer has the impurity that creates NDMA.
Should I Be Worried About Zantac?
Should I be worried about zantac?
The FDA issued a recommendation that you should no longer take Zantac. If you currently have Zantac in your medicine cabinet, you should return it to the retailer that you purchased it from or you should dispose of it properly. If you have any questions about how to safely dispose of over the counter medications, you can ask your local pharmacist on how to do it in your area.
If you have not been diagnosed with a cancer related to Zantac or any other medical condition, the next step is to monitor your health and find an alternative medication to relieve your heartburn or stomach upset. Otherwise, you have no reason to worry. You can discuss alternatives with your doctor. If you have been diagnosed with cancer after taking Zantac, contact Pintas & Mullins Law Firm at (800) 635-1144 to discuss your possible legal case.
Will Zantac Be Sold Again?
Currently, ranitidine products are not recommended for pharmaceutical use in the United States. The FDA states on its website that it would consider allowing ranitidine products back into the market with FDA approval if a pharmaceutical manufacturer can provide through scientific data that the specific ranitidine used in their product is stable and safe for consumers. It must also prove that the NDMA levels in the ranitidine will not increase over time to levels that the FDA deems as unsafe for consumers. If these conditions are met, it is possible that ranitidine products will be back on the shelves of American pharmacies and available through prescription. Until that time, ranitidine products are not recommended to be sold in the United States. There is a lot of current research that is ongoing regarding the safety of ranitidine, as well as strategies to properly test for contaminated ranitidine. Over time, this may change.
When Will Zantac Be Back on the Market?
When will Zantac be back on the market?
The manufacturer of Zantac complied with the voluntary recall issued by the FDA and pulled Zantac from market shelves. The FDA has stated that it would once again recommend Zantac for sale in the United States if the company can prove that the medication is safe for human consumption and that the levels of the contaminant would not rise over time. If and when the manufacturer of Zantac is able to prove this, it is possible that the drug will once again be available in pharmacies across the United States.
It is unclear whether the company will be able to prove this or will find alternative medications to manufacture that do not contain this contaminated ingredient. It could take several years for the research to come back on the medication, as well as finding ways to use ranitidine without fear of contamination. The situation will continue to evolve over time and may change.
Which Antacids Have Been Recalled?
Which antacids have been recalled?
The FDA continues to issue recalls and recommendations for medications that could be impacted by NDMA contamination. So far, all ranitidine medications, including Zantac, have been recalled. This is true in nearly all markets around the world. GlaxoSmithKline, the manufacturer of Zantac, issued its own recall for all unexpired quantities of its ranitidine products of all dosage amounts. These recalls also include all of the generic ranitidine medications sold in various pharmacies and convenience stores.
Alongside ranitidine, nizatidine has also been recalled. It was sold under the brand name Axid. Studies show that nizatidine can produce the same NDMA impurity when used. Both options have been recalled by government agencies and their manufacturers.
Famotidine also experienced a recall in 2006; however, this recall was due to sterilization issues in the manufacturing process. It was also limited to a single lot of the medication, which has been addressed and no further problems have been reported.
Which Zantac Has Been Recalled?
Which antacids have been recalled?
The recalls that have effectively pulled Zantac off of the market cover all versions of Zantac. This includes the prescription and OTC versions of Zantac, as well as all generic options that contain ranitidine that were commonly sold in drug stores like Walmart and Walgreens. The problem with Zantac, the potential NDMA contamination, is not limited to a specific type of Zantac. It is linked to nitrosamine impurities, which are unavoidable in the production of ranitidine. As a result, all forms of Zantac may be contaminated with unsafe levels of NDMA.
This nitrosamine impurity has not been found in similar medications from the same class as ranitidine. It seems to only be a byproduct of ranitidine, making this a fixable problem for most people. Doctors are currently transitioning everyone off of Zantac to other options with similar results and a smaller chance of causing illnesses. Consult your doctor to see what other medical options you have available.
When Was Zantac Recalled?
The recall of Zantac (ranitidine) started around the same time around the world following the release of studies showing that it could be contaminated with NDMA. In the United States, the FDA issued its voluntary recall of ranitidine products, including Zantac, on September 24th, 2019. Retailers began to comply with the voluntary recall requirements and took Zantac off of store shelves.
In October of 2019, the manufacturer of Zantac, GlaxoSmithKline, issued a recall for distributors and retailers to return any unexpired amounts of Zantac that they had left in stock. This was in response to the FDA’s recall in order to comply on a company-wide level. GlaxoSmithKline decided to stop production of Zantac in early 2020 due to dwindling demand and few markets left to sell it in. There have been updates to the FDA’s recall status throughout the process, which are a matter of public record. Zantac is currently still under a recall in all of its markets, making it difficult to find any amount of Zantac to buy.
How Many Times Has Zantac Been Recalled?
How many times has Zantac been recalled?
Zantac has been recalled in countries around the world at least twice for every market that it is sold in. The initial recall for each market happened in the respective health management agency for that market. In the U.S., it was the FDA who recalled Zantac in 2019.
Following the national market recalls in each country, GlaxoSmithKline issued a global Zantac recall for all of the unexpired quantities left on the market. This was done in response to the multiple recalls issued by governments around the world.
If you or a loved one developed a serious illness after taking Zantac, consult a lawyer to see what your legal options are. You may be entitled to compensation by the makers of Zantac to help you with your medical and other expenses. Contact Pintas & Mullins Law Firm at (800) 635-1144 to speak to our legal team about your potential case.
What Should I Know About Zantac?
When considering the problems with Zantac, there are several things that you should know. Zantac has been recalled by governments around the world, as well as the manufacturer of Zantac. These recalls include all ranitidine products, which is the active ingredient in Zantac. The sale, possession, and manufacturing of ranitidine products have been banned until a solution to its problem has been found.
Ranitidine was recalled because it can create a nitrosamine impurity called NDMA. NDMA is a toxic chemical that has shown to be carcinogenic (causes cancer) in lab tests. Research studies show that Zantac can contain high levels of NDMA, which is expected to cause cancer in humans over a prolonged exposure period. As a result, ranitidine is being pulled from markets around the world to protect customers.
Going forward, ranitidine will be increasingly more difficult to find. Since most sellers have stopped sales and the manufacturer is not producing more of the medications, the available supply is decreasing rapidly. If you are still taking Zantac, discuss switching to another medication with your doctor.
Is All Ranitidine Contaminated?
Is all ranitidine contaminated?
Ranitidine was removed from the market because of the presence and dangers of NDMA, a carcinogen found in ranitidine products. Some people assume that ranitidine is contaminated during the manufacturing process, but it is not a manufacturing problem. Rather, ranitidine creates NDMA when it is used, making the chances of NDMA being present in ranitidine products much higher.
As ranitidine breaks down, it can form NDMA in the process. It is a nitrosamine impurity that can develop as ranitidine is digested. Patients should avoid ranitidine entirely since it can produce a highly toxic substance like NDMA through its normal use method. There are other options available on the market that work in a similar way but without the chances of creating NDMA with every dosage.
What Does the FDA Say About Zantac?
What does the FDA say about Zantac?
The FDA issued a recall of all ranitidine products, including Zantac. The FDA based its decision on the outside research of other organizations and tests that the FDA performed. Other organizations were able to identify Zantac as a source of NDMA through various experiments. It is important to note that the FDA tried to reproduce the experiments that were reported and struggled to get a similar result. It did find some level of NDMA in the test samples, and another experiment showed that patients that took Zantac had a higher level of NDMA in their urine. These findings convinced the FDA to issue a voluntary recall.
Although the FDA issued a recall on ranitidine products, it did not ban them. Ranitidine was removed from the market because of a high level of compliance with the recall. Participation from the manufacturer, including shutting down production of Zantac, also helped decrease the availability of Zantac. It is now considered a medication that patients should not take, but it is not illegal to possess, sell, or manufacture Zantac in the United States.
Is Zantac the Same as Ranitidine?
Is Zantac the same as ranitidine?
Zantac is a product that is made using ranitidine as the main ingredient. Most instances use both names interchangeably. Zantac is the brand name for a ranitidine product that contains ranitidine and several modifications, while ranitidine is the drug itself and is used to refer to the generic form of Zantac. Essentially, they are the same thing, except Zantac has a little more of something else added in based on the brand’s needs.
In legal and medical terms, any regulations that are passed that affect ranitidine also include Zantac. For example, the FDA recall on ranitidine included all forms of Zantac since it contained ranitidine. Zantac is considered to be separate from ranitidine in legal terms. When victims file lawsuits against the manufacturer of Zantac, the manufacturer and retailers of generic ranitidine products are not included. If you were injured by taking Zantac, you could have a case against the company that made Zantac, not the makers of any other product, including the generic versions of ranitidine.
Is Zantac a PPI?
Zantac is not a PPI. PPI stands for proton pump inhibitors, which are mainly used to reduce stomach acid production. PPIs on the market include Prevacid, Aciphex, and Protonix. Zantac (ranitidine) is an H2 receptor blocker. They work in a similar way as PPIs to reduce the amount of stomach acid being produced; however, they are distinctly different. Some H2 receptor blockers on the market include Tagamet, Pepcid, and Axid.
When changing medications, physicians try to keep patients on the same type of medication, if possible. It is an easier transition on your body and can have better results. Medications in the same class as Zantac do not have the same NDMA problem as ranitidine. It can be entirely safe to make the medication transition while under the watchful care of a doctor.
Are PPIs Dangerous?
Because of the recalls on Zantac and several other medications, consumers are looking for alternative medications. This leads to questions about the different classes of medications, including PPIs and H2 receptor blockers. PPIs are no more dangerous than other medications. The key is to use them as directed to minimize the risks. There is ongoing research into the long-term use of PPIs, according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The initial findings show that there is an increased chance of contracting specific diseases or conditions.
One of the most notable potential effects of taking PPIs long-term is kidney disease. There is a higher chance of developing kidney disease. Osteoporosis and vitamin deficiencies are also more likely while taking long-term PPIs. If you are taking PPIs, consult with your doctor to see if there are any signs of specific illnesses to look for. Your doctor can perform an examination to see if you are developing any of these conditions.
Does Zantac Break Down into a Carcinogen?
Does Zantac break down into a carcinogen?
When the FDA tried to recreate tests to see if Zantac was contaminated with NDMA, the results were less than expected. Test results were hard to reproduce, making it unclear how the NDMA was found in the original tests. A follow-up test showed that the amount of NDMA in patients that took Zantac increased, prompting the FDA’s recall; however, Zantac is not contaminated with NDMA from the manufacturing process. The NDMA is created as a byproduct of breaking down ranitidine, Zantac’s main ingredient.
Ranitidine contains nitrosamine, which is at the heart of the problem. As ranitidine breaks down, it can create a nitrosamine impurity called N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA). NDMA is a possible carcinogen (a chemical that causes cancer). Its production is a natural part of how ranitidine breaks down. This is also why the tests are difficult to reproduce since the impurity does not happen uniformly throughout the different Zantac products.
If you or a loved one develops an illness after taking Zantac, you have the option to ask a lawyer to review your case. You may be entitled to compensation from the manufacturer. Call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm at (800) 635-1144 to learn about recovering compensation.
What Is NDMA?
NDMA is N-nitrosodimethylamine, a nitrosamine impurity. NDMA has been identified as a possible carcinogen, a chemical that causes cancer in humans. Victims may suffer from organ failure, cancer, and birth defects when exposed to significant amounts of NDMA. It is naturally-occurring and appears in different areas around the world. It is a volatile liquid with a yellowish color.
While NDMA can damage any organ that it comes in contact with, it is especially damaging to liver cells. This is why liver disease is a suspected illness caused by prolonged Zantac exposure, partly because the NDMA created by ranitidine is especially damaging to livers. Organ damage is a leading concern for NDMA exposure and can lead to organ failure or death if left untreated.
What Is NDMA?
NDMA is a volatile yellow substance called N-nitrosodimethylamine. It is a nitrosamine impurity that can be found as a byproduct of ranitidine, among other natural and artificial sources. NDMA is hepatotoxic, meaning it is especially damaging to liver cells. Exposure to NDMA may cause liver damage and liver disease. In long-term exposure cases, it may cause organ failure and death if left untreated. Ranitidine, the active ingredient in Zantac, can create NDMA as it breaks down over time or from digestion.
How Dangerous Is NDMA?
NDMA is a known carcinogen, which means that it is a cancer-causing substance. Trace amounts of it can be found in certain medications, household items, and industrial workplaces. Any amount of NDMA could be dangerous. The more frequently someone is exposed to NDMA and at higher doses, the increased risk of developing cancer as a result of the exposure. If you took contaminated ranitidine regularly, either through prescription medication or an over the counter medication such as Zantac, you could be at an increased risk of developing certain types of cancers, including stomach and intestinal cancers.
While some people are exposed to trace amounts of NDMA, most people do not end up with a cancer diagnosis. Just because you had one instance of exposure does not necessarily mean that you will ever be diagnosed with cancer. Receiving a cancer diagnosis is still, fortunately, very rare overall.
How Did NDMA Get into Zantac?
NDMA (N-Nitrosodimethylamine) was discovered in Zantac, which was why it was recalled from markets around the world. NDMA is a possible carcinogen, a chemical that can cause cancer. The FDA and other organizations found NDMA in Zantac, but it was not a manufacturing error. Although NDMA is a nitrosamine impurity, it is created from the natural breakdown of ranitidine, the active ingredient in Zantac. As it breaks down over time or through digestion, there is a chance that NDMA will be created.
Since NDMA is a byproduct of ranitidine breakdown, it is unlikely that Zantac will be allowed back on the market. This process essentially makes the chances of creating NDMA an integral part of processing ranitidine. Fortunately, there are other options on the market that do not have the same problem. The production NDMA as a byproduct appears to be limited to ranitidine, making all of the other options potentially safer.
Why Is NDMA Bad?
NDMA is bad for several reasons. The primary reason why healthcare organizations are concerned about NDMA exposure is that it is a carcinogen. Carcinogens are chemicals that can cause cancer to develop in humans. Lab tests already showed that NDMA causes cancer in lab animals. It has been linked to a long list of different types of cancer.
Another concern about NDMA is that it is hepatotoxic or damaging to liver cells. It is more dangerous for liver cells than any other type of cell. NDMA in Zantac is a persistent problem because it is created when Zantac is digested. The natural process creates NDMA from ranitidine, making it a byproduct that is very difficult to remove. Because of this, ranitidine products are considered bad as well and have been removed from markets around the world.
Is NDMA a Carcinogen?
NDMA is a carcinogen, which means that it is a cancer-causing substance. It can be found in a wide range of items, including possibly your drinking water. It also can be found in certain pesticides. It can pollute the earth and minerals, which can lead to contamination. This is the case with Zantac. Ranitidine used in Zantac may be contaminated with NDMA. It is not actually the ranitidine itself that is the problem. It is the fact that it is contaminated with NDMA.
Lab tests of NDMA showed that it is carcinogenic to lab animals. The animals involved in the test experienced high rates of cancer, organ problems, and birth defects. The FDA believes that in higher doses, NDMA could cause the same problems for humans. There are acceptable limits to how much NDMA can be found in a product before it is deemed unsafe for sale, which the FDA checks for in the evaluation process.
When Was NDMA Discovered in Zantac?
When was NDMA discovered in Zantac?
Ranitidine was under investigation by multiple health organizations because they believed that it could be linked to some of the problems that were commonly found in people that took ranitidine medications. NDMA in Zantac was reported in 2019 by several organizations conducting independent research. The FDA also conducted its own research to confirm the reports. In late 2019, the FDA called for a recall of ranitidine medications.
Ranitidine was used for decades without any indication of this problem; however, the research methods and tools used to assess medications have changed considerably over the years. The current tests are more thorough and accurate, making it easier to find impurities in medications. The first report of ranitidine contamination was delivered to the FDA in the summer of 2019. Over the next several months, it tried to verify the reports that were coming in. This led to the recall in early 2020.
Should I Be Concerned About NDMA?
Should I be concerned about NDMA?
While the thought of what NDMA can do to people is terrifying, NDMA is not commonly found in medications. Most medications are heavily processed to root out impurities and contaminants. Because of this, NDMA rarely finds its way into refined substances. If you are not taking a medication that specifically includes NDMA or is Zantac, then you do not have much to worry about when it comes to NDMA.
If you currently take Zantac or another ranitidine medication, then you have more reason to worry. Ranitidine creates NDMA as it degrades over time, which is why the recall covers all forms and quantities of ranitidine.
If you or a loved one is struggling with health issues after taking Zantac, then you have the option to consult a lawyer to see what legal options you have. There are lawsuits building against the makers of Zantac, and you can be involved in one of them. Call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm at (800) 635-1144 for more information about a possible Zantac lawsuit.
What Are the Side Effects of NDMA?
What are the side effects of NDMA?
The concerns over NDMA stem from ongoing research and lab tests, such as those from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). NDMA can have substantial effects on your health. It is a carcinogen, making it highly likely to cause cancer in humans. Lab tests have already confirmed that it can cause cancer in lab animals when given in sufficient doses.
Another possible health effect of NDMA is organ damage. NDMA has the ability to damage any tissue that it comes in contact with, but it is especially dangerous for liver cells. It is likely that NDMA can cause liver disease, which is a condition where the liver functions at a weaker capacity. The damage could be permanent if not addressed early. Organ damage is also likely given long-term exposure rates.
NDMA may also cause lung damage and lung failure. This is likely from exposure due to the lungs’ close connection with the stomach. If not treated efficiently, it could lead to death.
What Cancers Are Linked to NDMA?
What cancers are linked to NDMA?
The types of cancer caused by NDMA vary based on the type of exposure. Ingesting products contaminated with NDMA may cause a different type of cancer than inhaling it. Cancers associated with NDMA contamination in Zantac tend to occur in the stomach or intestine. Cancer of the colon, esophagus, kidneys, bladder, liver, prostate, and pancreas are also possible. Some patients even experience leukemia, multiple myeloma, and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
Some of these types of cancers are rarer than others. If you have been diagnosed with one of these forms of cancer but have few other risk factors and took ranitidine, it is very possible that the exposure to NDMA contaminated ranitidine raised your risk. Furthermore, if you took ranitidine and developed a different form of cancer, it is also possible that it is linked somehow and you could seek compensation. Discuss the specifics of your case with a Zantac ranitidine cancer lawyer to learn more about the process.
Does NDMA Accumulate in the Body?
Does NDMA accumulate in the body?
NDMA can be found in most parts of the human body within minutes of being absorbed. This is because it quickly makes its way into the bloodstream, where it can travel freely through the body. In some cases, experts believe that NDMA accumulates in the body. Research by Carcinogenesis showed that patients taking Zantac had higher levels of NDMA in their urine, which indicates that it passed out of the body quickly.
NDMA can accumulate in parts of the body. The stomach, liver, and bladder are common places where the accumulation of NDMA can be found. These are all places where fluids tend to accumulate. For example, the stomach is where NDMA is released from the medication and waits to pass into the intestines. The bladder is also the last stop on the way out of the body and is only emptied periodically, giving NDMA the chance to accumulate.
Is There a Blood Test for NDMA?
Is there a blood test for NDMA?
Technically, there are tests that could potentially check for NDMA in the human body through blood and urine samples. These tests have not been widely used in humans and may not be helpful in providing the information that is needed. The tests can examine if there are currently traces of NDMA in your blood or urine, not necessarily if there ever was NDMA in your body. To develop cancer, you likely had been exposed to NDMA in the past. Not having NDMA currently circulating around your body does not mean that it did not cause your cancer.
Likewise, having traces of NDMA in your body today does not necessarily mean that you have cancer. Unfortunately, this is one area where there needs to be a different type of test available to test for needed information. For now, most Zantac cancer cases are built on known exposure to ranitidine and a cancer diagnosis.
Is NDMA in Liquid Zantac?
Since NDMA is found in contaminated ranitidine, the active ingredient in Zantac, all forms of Zantac face possible contamination. This includes liquid versions, as well as tablets, capsules, and dissolvable options. The FDA recommends that all forms of Zantac remain off of store shelves and away from human consumption until further testing and/or changes to the formula or source of the ranitidine has been proven safe.
This also applies to other forms of liquid ranitidine that were available on the market. Any pharmaceutical product where ranitidine is the main ingredient could create a cancer risk from consuming and long-term exposure to NDMA. It is best to avoid taking any products with possible NDMA contamination whenever possible. There are safer alternatives that can help to relieve the symptoms of heartburn and stomach upset. You can ask your doctor or pharmacist for the options that they recommend for your specific needs.
What Are the Long-Term Side Effects of Zantac?
What are the long-term side effects of Zantac?
Taking Zantac can have several long-term side effects. The most prominent side effect that concerns researchers is the potential to cause several types of cancer. All ranitidine products, including Zantac, can cause cancer since NDMA is a carcinogen and has been found in ranitidine products. This is the reason why Zantac was recalled from markets around the world.
Another potential side effect of Zantac is liver disease. Liver disease is a condition where damage to the liver permanently reduces its ability to function. This can lead to future health problems, including liver failure. The liver is not the only organ that can be damaged by Zantac. All organs along the digestive tract can be affected.
Zantac can also cause insomnia. Insomnia is the inability or extreme difficulty in falling asleep. If not addressed, the lack of sleep can cause mental and physical stress that impacts patients’ quality of life and overall health.
What Type of Cancer Does Zantac Cause?
What type of cancer does Zantac cause?
There are different types of cancer that could be related to using Zantac. Some of the most common types of cancer associated with Zantac usage include stomach, bladder, intestinal, colon, esophageal, and prostate cancer. Exposure to a carcinogen such as NDMA puts you at risk for other sorts of cancer, too. If you have been diagnosed with any form of cancer after taking Zantac for a prolonged period of time, it is possible that the Zantac is responsible for your diagnosis.
There may not be any definitive way to know for sure whether the Zantac alone caused or if it just contributed to your cancer. Researchers have recognized that there is a link between the contaminant NDMA and cancer. If you have any questions about your potential legal options to recover compensation related to your cancer, call the Zantac cancer law firm Pintas & Mullins Law Firm at (800) 635-1144 for a free consultation to understand your legal options.
Can Zantac Affect Your Heart?
Generally, Zantac will not negatively impact your heart health. Even though heartburn sometimes is mistaken for the first signs of a heart attack or other cardiac event, Zantac has not been proven to substantially increase your risk of a heart attack. Certain comorbid medical conditions, such as diabetes, could change the outlook of who is at risk for heart attacks. Doctors often suggest to identify and eliminate heartburn triggers as opposed to trying to take medication to remediate heartburn. This can be a good strategy for all patients, as it enables you to give up taking medication for good. One of the potential side effects of taking Zantac is chest pain or a changed heart rate. The signs of this would show up shortly after taking Zantac and not years later. If you have any questions about whether your symptoms are a sign of a heart attack or a side effect of taking Zantac, you should seek medical attention.
Can Ranitidine Damage Kidneys?
Can ranitidine damage kidneys?
Ranitidine can damage your kidneys in multiple ways. First, there is a danger of reducing the amount of stomach acid in your body for long periods of time, as it can raise your chance of developing kidney conditions. In a worst-case scenario, it could potentially lead to kidney failure and the need for dialysis. If left untreated, the patient could die.
Second, if the medication is contaminated with NDMA, it is possible that the kidneys could be damaged by exposure to the carcinogen. This could lead to kidney cancer and weekend kidney function. In either case, medications such as Zantac can adversely impact the function of your kidneys and your long-term health. There are safer alternatives that you can take that may have less of an impact on your kidneys. You can ask a pharmacist for recommendations on what alternatives could be the most effective and safest in your specific situation.
Can Zantac Affect Blood Pressure?
Can Zantac affect blood pressure?
Taking too much or too high of a dose of Zantac could lead to having low blood pressure, which could potentially make you feel like you have to faint. This will also negatively impact your ability to walk. If you believe that you have taken too much Zantac or may overdose on the drug, it is important to call your local poison control center or seek immediate medical attention. In most cases, patients are told to take Zantac only for short periods of time to temporarily relieve their heartburn symptoms.
Additionally, some serious side effects can develop while using Zantac. This includes an abnormal heart rate, tiredness, and shortness of breath. Some cognitive impairments are also possible, such as confusion, hallucinations, and blurry vision. If you experience any of these signs, call 911 for immediate assistance. Since Zantac is no longer widely available on the market, you should not experience any of these symptoms.
Is Zantac Bad for Your Liver?
Zantac has been recalled because of possible NDMA contamination. This could create problems for your liver in the future. NDMA is a carcinogen, which means that it can cause cancer. It is also hepatotoxic, meaning it is very bad for liver cells. It damages liver cells more than any other type of cell, making it very dangerous for your liver.
Long-term exposure to Zantac and the possible amounts of NDMA in it can damage your liver and cause several diseases. Liver disease is believed to be linked to NDMA exposure. It is a condition where your liver is damaged and unable to work at full capacity. Liver damage and liver failure are also possible if the NDMA causes damage to the liver over time. Anyone that has taken Zantac for an extended period of time should have their liver checked for possible damage and an overall health assessment to see if treatment is needed.
What Is in Zantac That Causes Cancer?
What is in Zantac that causes cancer?
Technically, it is not the Zantac itself that is carcinogenic. Zantac is made from ranitidine, which is its active ingredient. It can actually be found in other medications, including prescriptions. Ranitidine is contaminated with trace amounts of a cancer-causing carcinogen known as NDMA. It is the NDMA found in ranitidine that causes cancer, not the ranitidine itself. In the future, if the makers of Zantac are able to make medications with ranitidine that are free of NDMA, those medications would not necessarily cause cancer.
Frequent or high doses of exposure to carcinogens such as NDMA cause cancer as you are exposed to the cancer-causing substance. In most cases, a single exposure to NDMA or some doses of Zantac over the years will not definitely cause you to develop cancer from that initial exposure. While possible, it is not as likely as developing cancer is often the result of more frequent exposure.
Can Zantac Cause Lung Cancer?
It is possible that NDMA contaminated ranitidine in Zantac could cause lung cancer. In studies conducted in animals, the animals did develop lung cancer after several weeks of low-level exposure to NDMA. The longer the exposure, the more likely the animals were to develop lung cancer or liver damage. Therefore, it is reasonable to accept that long term exposure to NDMA could potentially cause lung cancer in humans.
Lung cancer is not the type of cancer that is most associated with Zantac. It is more regularly associated with bladder, kidney, liver, intestinal, and colorectal cancers. That does not mean that it is not possible to develop other forms of cancer as a result of NDMA exposure. If you developed any form of cancer after taking Zantac or other ranitidine products, especially if you took the medication regularly, you could potentially have a legal case against the manufacturer.
What Cancers Does NDMA Cause?
NDMA is a carcinogen that is found in contaminated ranitidine, which is ingested. It is also found in other sources, though, such as drinking water, soil, and industrial workplaces. Depending on the method of exposure, the cancers that NDMA causes are different. Since Zantac is an ingested medication targeting the GI tract, most of the cancers linked to NDMA contaminated ranitidine are of the GI tract. This includes bladder, intestinal, stomach, and esophageal cancers. Other types of cancer aside from the GI tract have been linked, too, such as non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. If inhaled or applied through the skin, other cancers from NDMA are possible. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer after being exposed to NDMA from taking Zantac or from other sources, call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm at (800) 635-1144 to set up a free consultation to discuss your options for legal recourse with a member of our team.
Can Zantac Cause Weight Gain?
Depending on the dose and frequency that you took Zantac, the active ingredient in Zantac called ranitidine was found to reduce weight gain over a period of four months. It is not necessarily associated with substantial weight gain in patients who take ranitidine. In some cases, it can help patients lose weight.
The artificial reduction in acid reflux or heartburn could make it more comfortable for you to eat unhealthy foods that cause heartburn, such as fried, greasy, and high-fat foods. Eating more foods with higher calories can lead to weight gain. While the medication itself will not necessarily increase your weight, the feeling of being able to eat these foods more frequently or in higher quantities will cause a person to gain weight. In some cases, you may not have eaten the higher fat or calorie foods at all because of the heartburn symptoms eating the foods may have caused.
Can Zantac Make Reflux Worse?
Some people did not find relief by taking Zantac. It did not provide effective treatment for everyone. There are other medications that your doctor or pharmacist can recommend more effective solutions, especially since the FDA issued the voluntary recall of Zantac.
Some of the more serious side effects of taking Zantac included low blood pressure and some cardiac symptoms. This could make the reflux feel worse after taking the drug. Despite this, some patients did experience relief from their reflux symptoms by using Zantac.
If you otherwise experienced stomach pain that seemed to get worse while taking Zantac, it is possible that you have other underlying conditions causing the symptoms. This includes conditions of the liver or pancreas. Be sure to speak with a doctor about your concerns if a new reflux medication does not work effectively, as it could be a sign that there is something else going on that needs to be diagnosed.
Can Zantac Cause Heart Attacks?
Can Zantac cause heart attacks?
Research does not support the claim that Zantac causes heart attacks, according to Reuters. Other comorbid conditions, such as diabetes, are often prevalent in the group of patients that take Zantac. These patients are at an increased risk of heart attacks because of other factors.
Some of the serious but less frequent side effects of taking Zantac include increased heart rate and chest pain. Taking too much Zantac can also cause low blood pressure and dizziness, with possible fainting. This is considered an overdose of Zantac and not associated with its typical usage.
Anyone facing the symptoms should seek immediate medical attention. It is less likely that the Zantac itself caused a patient’s heart attack than other types of heartburn relief medication that are available on the market. If you have any questions about how your heartburn medication increases your heart attack risk, be sure to consult with your doctor.
What Kind of Cancer Is Caused by NDMA?
What kind of cancer is caused by NDMA?
There are different types of cancer caused by exposure to the carcinogen known as NDMA. This includes prostate cancer, colon cancer, pancreatic cancer, intestinal cancer, stomach cancer, liver cancer, esophageal cancer, leukemia, multiple myeloma, or non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Other types of cancers are possible, depending on the exposure.
If you have been diagnosed with any form of cancer and have a history of taking Zantac or related medication, it is possible that your exposure to NDMA from the contaminated medication contributed, at least in some part, to the development of your cancer. If this is the case, you can opt to discuss possible worries with a Zantac ranitidine cancer lawyer to see if you may have a case. Contact Pintas & Mullins Law Firm at (800) 635-1144 for a free consultation to discuss your potential legal case and see what a Zantac ranitidine cancer lawyer may do for your case. There is no cost associated with the consultation.
Does Zantac Cause Bladder Cancer?
Does Zantac cause bladder cancer?
Zantac is suspected of causing bladder cancer, as well as a variety of other cancers along the digestive tract. This is likely caused by the presence of NDMA in contaminated ranitidine products. NDMA is a carcinogen, which is a substance that can cause cancer in humans. While no tests on humans have been performed, lab animal tests show that NDMA can cause cancer and other problems. Because of this, experts speculate that NDMA can cause bladder cancer.
The bladder is one of the places where NDMA can accumulate in the body. It is drained regularly with a large volume of urine being stored while waiting to be evacuated. That means that any NDMA in the urine spends a long time in the bladder where it can cause damage and create cancer cells. Tests by the FDA have shown that patients taking Zantac have higher concentrations of NDMA in their urine.
How Many People Have Died from Zantac?
How many people have died from Zantac?
It is impossible to estimate the number of people that have died from taking Zantac. There are some medical reports that a man died from anaphylactic shock after being given an intravenous version of Zantac that was administered in the hospital setting for a stress ulcer. Usually, a cancer diagnosis occurs long after the initial exposure to the contaminated Zantac, so it is unclear how many people have died in the past because of cancer caused by NDMA or how many people in the future will develop cancer related to their exposure to NDMA contaminated ranitidine.
There are no real ways of gathering this information specific to the use of ranitidine since the data was not collected. Millions of people have died from these forms of cancer over the past few decades and will continue to die. By comparison, Zantac has been available on the market since 1995.
What Are the Chances of Getting Cancer From Zantac?
What are the chances of getting cancer from Zantac?
Your chances of developing cancer from Zantac contaminated with NDMA is higher the larger the dose that you take compared to those patients who took lower doses. The longer that you took Zantac, the higher your cancer risk. This does not mean that everyone that ever took Zantac will develop the related cancer.
Some patients were prescribed ranitidine in higher doses and took the medication more consistently throughout their lives. These individuals are at a much higher risk of developing cancer because of this. This does not mean that it is impossible to develop a related cancer if you took Zantac less frequently.
Can You Die From Ranitidine?
The concerns over ranitidine address its long-term effects, not the ranitidine itself. As it breaks down, ranitidine can create NDMA. NDMA is a carcinogen, a chemical that causes cancer. You won’t be made ill or die from ranitidine directly. Alternatively, the NDMA made from the ranitidine can cause the development of cancer, which can kill you.
NDMA can also cause other problems that affect your organs. For example, NDMA is especially harmful to liver cells. It can cause liver disease, which permanently reduces your liver’s ability to process toxins out of the body. It can also cause liver damage and organ damage throughout your body, leading to multi-system organ failure and death. Long-term exposure to NDMA is dangerous for your health, which is why ranitidine was removed from the market. The FDA felt that the amount of NDMA found in Zantac and similar products exceeded the acceptable limit for a daily dosage.
Can Taking Zantac Every Day Be Harmful?
Can taking Zantac every day be harmful?
For most over-the-counter uses, patients took Zantac for short-term heartburn relief. Some patients took Zantac every day at the direction of their doctor. When it comes to NDMA exposure, the more that you are exposed to the carcinogen, the more likely you are to develop cancer. If you took Zantac every day, you are at a more increased risk of developing cancer as a result. In this way, taking Zantac every day can be harmful to your health.
Aside from the NDMA exposure, taking Zantac every day can be harmful to your health in other ways. Unless your doctor advised you to take Zantac every day for a specific medical condition that you are trying to treat, taking Zantac every day could pose health challenges for your liver and kidneys. By removing too much stomach acid from your body, it could put undue stress on your other organs that need to compensate.
Can You Become Dependent on Zantac?
Can you become dependent on Zantac?
There are no reports showing that it is possible to be addicted to Zantac, either mentally or physically. Some patients may feel that they are dependent on Zantac because it relieves symptoms that are painful and possibly debilitating. This is not a direct dependence on Zantac. Rather, it is a dependence on medication to eliminate a problem. The doctor should investigate the underlying cause of the problem so that the patient can reduce or stop taking Zantac.
Zantac does not have addictive properties. Any patient that feels like Zantac is a requirement should speak to a physician about diagnosing the cause of the problem. For example, Zantac can relieve persistent acid reflux and a range of other stomach acid-related problems; however, that acid reflux could result from allergies or lifestyle choices. Once you address these underlying problems, the acid reflux may subside, and you may not need to take Zantac consistently.
What Does Zantac Do to Your Stomach?
What does Zantac do to your stomach?
Zantac works by reducing the amount of stomach acid in your body. It actually changes the amount of stomach acid your body will use. This can give ulcers time to heal and help to correct natural processes in certain medical conditions where your stomach may produce too much acid. As a heartburn treatment, you may experience fewer symptoms of heartburn because there is less acid in your stomach that can come up your esophagus as reflux.
Zantac may also relieve other symptoms such as stomach pain and helping you to be able to swallow after experiencing a bout of difficulty swallowing. It is an H2 blocker that used to be available with or without a prescription. In infrequent doses to manage the short-term effects of heartburn, Zantac has proven to be an effective drug for some people. If Zantac had not been contaminated by NDMA, some people might still choose to use the medication.
Can Zantac Upset Your Stomach?
Can Zantac upset your stomach?
It is possible that taking Zantac can further upset your stomach in multiple ways. First, some gastrointestinal side effects are common side effects of taking Zantac. This includes constipation, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Stomach pain and headache are also common side effects of medication. If you experience stomach pain or feel lightheaded or dizzy after taking Zantac, it is important to call your doctor to let them know about the side effects.
Stomach pain can also be a sign of certain forms of cancer that may be caused by Zantac. Any severe stomach pain should be thoroughly investigated, especially if you have a history of taking Zantac. It is possible that your stomach pain is an early sign of stomach cancer, intestinal cancer, colorectal cancer, or bladder cancer. If you find that you have stomach, bladder, or intestinal cancer after taking Zantac, it is possible that you could be eligible for compensation for your injuries.
What Are the Symptoms of Acid Rebound?
What are the symptoms of acid rebound?
If a patient stops taking a medication like Zantac, that patient may experience acid rebound. Taking medications that limit stomach acid production triggers a growth response in the stomach. It begins to increase the number of acid-producing stomach cells in an effort to raise the production levels of stomach acid. It is the body’s way of reacting to protect itself. Once the medication is stopped, all of these cells return to full production levels. Since there are more cells than before, the stomach produces far more stomach acid than it needs.
Acid reflux can take a few weeks to resolve, or it can take a few months. The body needs to learn what the new level of acid production should be and how to make that happen. The adjustment period is somewhat slow and the only solution is to begin taking a medication again or to wait for the acid rebound to end.
What Is the Cancer-Causing Ingredient in Zantac?
What is the Cancer-causing ingredient in Zantac?
The cancer-causing ingredient in Zantac is actually a contaminant known as NDMA. This carcinogen can be found in ranitidine, the active ingredient in Zantac. The NDMA is the cancer-causing ingredient. Technically, it is not part of the intentional formulation of Zantac itself. It is a contaminant of one of the ingredients found in Zantac.
There are other pharmaceutical products that contain ranitidine or that are contaminated with NDMA. As more research is conducted into the dangers of NDMA and which products could be affected, it is likely that our understanding of what types of cancer and medications that may cause cancer will continue to evolve in the future. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with any form of cancer after taking Zantac, contact Pintas & Mullins Law Firm at (800) 635-1144 for a free consultation. We can answer any questions you may have about the legal process.
What Are the Health Risks Associated with PPIs?
What are the health risks associated with PPIs?
Taking PPIs comes with several health risks for patients. The risks of taking PPIs are mostly long-term problems. Acid rebound can happen almost immediately when you stop taking PPIs. Acid rebound is caused by an overproduction of acid-producing cells in the stomach. Once the PPI stops working, all of the cells, including the new ones, return to a full production level. This leads to the production of far too much acid.
The long-term risks include dementia and a variety of vitamin deficiencies. These deficiencies can be treated, but the effect on the body creates other problems. Patients that take PPIs are at a higher risk of fracturing bones since their bones are not as strong anymore. Pneumonia is a serious potential risk. It can quickly become a deadly illness if proper care is not provided in a timely manner. It is possible to develop chronic kidney disease, as well.
How Do I Know if My Cancer Was Caused by Zantac?
How do I know if my cancer was caused by Zantac?
You may never know whether or not your cancer was caused by Zantac. The truth is, there is not currently a test on whether the contaminated ingredients in Zantac cause your cancer. Cancers generally form over the course of many years, if not decades. Even if you had NDMA in your bloodstream and body five years ago and it caused your cancer, it will not necessarily be in your blood or urine today. Because of this, doctors may assess your cancer diagnosis and other risk factors that you may have to try to pinpoint some potential causes. No one really knows for sure. When it comes to a Zantac cancer lawsuit, you generally have to have been diagnosed with cancer and have a way of proving that you took Zantac in the past. This can be in the form of a receipt for purchasing over-the-counter medication, a copy of your prescription, or a doctor’s note.
Should I Talk to My Doctor if I Used To Take Zantac?
Should I talk to my doctor if I used to take Zantac?
If you used to take Zantac, it is worth talking to your doctor. They may ask you about how frequently you took Zantac and at what dosages. There is a chance that if you do not currently take Zantac that your doctor will not take other actions as a result of knowing this information aside from noting in your file. If other symptoms present sometime in the future, your doctor will at least know about your increased risk of developing cancer. This may encourage them to schedule cancer screenings earlier in the process, which could be life-changing. For instance, if you present with stomach pain, your doctor may go ahead and schedule some diagnostic testing to see whether or not there is something more behind the stomach pain, such as stomach cancer. Without information about your possible exposure to NDMA, your doctor may opt to wait and see if the stomach pain goes away with other forms of treatment first before scheduling other tests just to be sure.
Should I Stop Taking Zantac?
Zantac is the subject of a voluntary recall in the United States. If you are currently taking Zantac, you should stop taking Zantac. If you take Zantac regularly as a way to manage and frequent heartburn symptoms, you can simply call your pharmacist to learn how to properly dispose of the Zantac or to return it to the store where you purchased it. The next time that you need to take Zantac to manage heartburn symptoms, you can simply take a safer alternative.
If you have taken Zantac regularly or have been prescribed a different version of the medication, it is important that you call your doctor to ask how to properly stop taking Zantac and move to a different option. Depending on your condition, the available medications that your doctor may prescribe are different for every patient. It is important that you take the necessary steps to stop taking Zantac and what other medications are appropriate.
Can You Just Stop Taking Ranitidine?
Can you just stop taking ranitidine?
While it may be tempting to stop taking ranitidine entirely, that may lead to adverse effects. Ranitidine and other acid-reducing medications also cause the stomach to grow more acid-producing cells to compensate. When you stop taking ranitidine without replacing it, these cells overproduce stomach acid. Any condition that you have that is dependent on stomach acid will be aggravated for weeks or months.
The safer option is to transition to another medication if you need to stop taking ranitidine immediately. A slow transition can help your body maintain its PPI levels and prevent problems like acid rebound. Alternatively, you can wean off of ranitidine entirely if the underlying cause of your symptoms has been resolved and those symptoms are going away. Before you make any changes to your medication regimen, discuss the changes with your doctor. The watchful care of a trained physician can save you from a lot of complications.
Do You Have To Wean off Zantac?
Do you have to wean off Zantac?
Given the news about Zantac and its subsequent removal from the market, people are looking for ways of transitioning off of Zantac. In short, you do have to wean off of Zantac if you are going to stop taking it. Stopping Zantac immediately will lead to significant health problems. The amount of acid in your stomach will be higher than it was before you started taking Zantac, and it could take months to return to normal. This will create problems with any conditions that you were treating with Zantac.
It is possible to transition to another medication that does not have the NDMA/ranitidine problem that Zantac has. It is safest to transition to this new medication under the care of a doctor. Changing medications can lead to complications, and a doctor can effectively monitor the changes to ensure that you can successfully make the transition to the new medication.
Does Zantac Have Withdrawal Symptoms?
Does Zantac have withdrawal symptoms?
Zantac is not an addictive medication and does not have traditional withdrawal symptoms found in other medication types, such as narcotics. If you stop taking Zantac without replacing it slowly with another medication, you will experience a condition called acid rebound. Acid rebound is caused by the overproduction of stomach acid that happens when you stop taking an acid-reducing medication.
While taking Zantac, your body will try to create more stomach cells to produce more acid. These cells will have a reduced output. If you stop taking Zantac, they will return to normal production and create more acid then you had before you started taking Zantac. This acid rebound can lead to ulcers, tissue damage, and general discomfort that can last for months. Once the production levels return to normal, there are no further symptoms of Zantac withdrawal. The patient will likely still experience problems stemming from the condition that was initially being treated by Zantac.
What Happens When You Stop Taking Zantac?
What happens when you stop taking Zantac?
Zantac is used to treat stomach problems, such as GERD and acid reflux. It does this by reducing the amount of stomach acid that your body produces. With less acid, your stomach is emptier and can prevent acid leakage into your esophagus and intestines. It can also reduce the stress on ulcers and other stomach problems, giving them a chance to heal.
When you stop taking Zantac, the amount of stomach acid that your body produces increases sharply. This change can happen almost immediately and the results can be uncomfortable. Any problem that was being treated with Zantac can become worse right away. This is why doctors try to transition patients between medications. Finding a suitable replacement quickly can prevent stomach acid increases and all of the problems created by it.
What Happens If You Suddenly Stop Taking Ranitidine?
What happens if you suddenly stop taking ranitidine?
There may be some side effects if you stop taking ranitidine immediately. Ranitidine is designed to reduce stomach acid production, which can address many gastrointestinal issues. If you stop taking ranitidine, you could experience a sharp increase in stomach acid production. This could aggravate whatever condition you were trying to treat, making you very uncomfortable. For example, Zantac was used to treat stomach ulcers by lowering the amount of acid so that the ulcers would be less irritated. A rapid increase in stomach acid could damage the ulcers, making them very painful and keeping them from healing.
If you are trying to deal with an illness that you think is related to Zantac, you have the right to consult with a Zantac ranitidine cancer lawyer regarding your case. A review of the case should show if there is a plausible connection to taking Zantac, and guide you through the process of seeking compensation. Call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm at (800) 635-1144 to speak about your case.
Is There a Rebound Effect with Zantac?
Is there a rebound effect with Zantac?
There is a rebound effect when you stop taking Zantac. It is not limited to Zantac, as any acid-reducing medication can have the same effect. It is called acid rebound. While a patient is taking an acid-reducing medication, his or her body will produce more cells that can make stomach acid. It is a way of compensating for the reduced output. These cells remain until the body is done using them, which can take a long time to happen.
When you stop taking Zantac, your stomach will produce more acid than it did before you started taking Zantac. This will lead to several problems, including discomfort while the body adjusts to the new stomach cells and the rate of acid production. This can take a few months to happen, although some patients complete the adjustment in a few weeks. The only treatment for rebound acid is another acid-reducing medication or to wait for the adjustment to finish.
Do You Have To Taper off Zantac?
Do you have to taper off Zantac?
If you are currently taking Zantac and you want to stop taking it, you have two options. The first option is to stop taking it entirely, which is an option if you can address the underlying problem that is treated with Zantac. Your other option is to work with your doctor to transition to another medication. In both cases, you will have to taper off of Zantac.
If you stop taking Zantac immediately, you will experience a condition called acid rebound. While you take Zantac, your body produces less stomach acid. To compensate, it tries to produce more acid-making cells in your stomach to make up the difference in stomach acid production. These new cells will have a reduced output, just like the old cells. When you stop taking Zantac, all of your stomach cells will return to their normal production levels. If this happens, your body will produce more stomach acid than it started with leading to worse problems caused by stomach acid.
What Should I Take Instead of Zantac?
What should I take instead of Zantac?
Now that Zantac is no longer available for purchase on the shelves of most American pharmacies and big-box retailers, you may need to find an alternative to Zantac to manage your symptoms of heartburn and stomach upset. Fortunately, there are many alternatives that you can choose that are available over-the-counter in the scene stores that Zantac was available in. This includes the brand names of Nexium, Prevacid, Prilosec, Pepcid, and Tagamet. The Pepcid and Tagamet are also H2 histamine receptors, just like Zantac. If you found Zantac particularly effective, you can experience similar effects by taking these other medications without the risk of NDMA exposure.
If you are not sure which medication to take instead, you can discuss your options with your doctor or pharmacist. With more information about your specific medical condition, age, and risk factors, they will be able to guide you to make the right decision for your health needs.
What Is the Safest Antacid?
When it comes to the safest antacid, any of the other choices that do not contain trace amounts of NDMA are safer choices and Zantac. This includes Pepcid, Nexium, and Prevacid. The safest antacid will depend on you. The antacid that does not have negative side effects for you is the safest for your specific needs.
Additionally, treating the triggers for your heartburn as opposed to treating the symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux could potentially be the safest option of all. By avoiding certain foods that cause heartburn or evaluating and treating underlying medical issues, it could be possible to avoid taking any antacid at all. This would be absolutely the safest option, as you would not expose yourself to anything. Just because a medication is deemed safe today does not mean that there will not be research in the future that highlights its risks.
What Is the Safest Acid Reflux Medicine?
What is the safest acid reflux medicine?
The safest acid reflux medicine will depend on what other medications you take and the symptoms that you want to treat. The other over the counter acid reflux medications that do not contain ranitidine and that are still available on store shelves are safer than taking Zantac, which is the subject of a voluntary recall from the FDA. Some safe options include Nexium, Prevacid, Prilosec, Pepcid, and Tagamet.
Each of these medications has its own list of side effects, so you may need to try more than one before you find the best one for your needs. You can also ask for recommendations from your doctor or pharmacist to see what medication they would advise you to take. The safest acid reflux medication overall is not an acid reflux medication but lifestyle changes that enable you to lose weight or stop smoking. Even small weight losses can help to minimize acid reflux symptoms.
Is Zantac Safer Than Omeprazole?
Is Zantac safer than omeprazole?
Omeprazole is an alternative to Zantac and is becoming more popular as Zantac has been removed from the market. When comparing the two options, it appears that omeprazole can be considered safer than Zantac. Omeprazole, sold under the brand name Prilosec, does not have problems with NDMA production, which is what led to Zantac being removed from the market. Omeprazole also has a relatively clean safety record compared to Zantac.
One area where Zantac may perform better is in long-term use. Omeprazole is only ten-years-old, so advanced long-term studies have not been completed. The research has shown that it can be taken long-term without major consequences. There are potential side effects that can lead to problems, such as vitamin deficiencies and an increased risk of bone fractures. Kidney damage is another potential side effect to watch out for when taking omeprazole long-term. If your kidneys are damaged, it can lead to more serious medical conditions.
How Do I Know if My Heartburn Drug Is Safe?
How do I know if my heartburn drug is safe?
There are several ways that you can identify whether or not a specific heartburn drug is safe. First, verify that the drug is FDA approved or under further investigation. You can also conduct a simple Google search to see if there has been any recent news concerning the safety or effectiveness of a specific drug. You can also check with your doctor and pharmacist about the safety of any drug that you may take, over-the-counter or by prescription.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer after a history of taking over the counter heartburn medication, you could be entitled to compensation related to your injuries. Contact Pintas & Mullins Law Firm at (800) 635-1144 to get more information about how to pursue legal action. We offer a free consultation to answer any questions that you may have about the process.
What Should I Take Instead of Ranitidine?
What should I take instead of ranitidine?
There are many different options that you can take instead of ranitidine, depending on why you took ranitidine in the first place. This includes over-the-counter options such as Nexium, Prevacid, Prilosec, Pepcid, and Tagamet; however, there are other prescription-only medications that could also help. For instance, if you took ranitidine to manage a medical condition where your body produces too much stomach acid, such as with Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, medications such as proton pump inhibitors that can remove the extra stomach acid and reduce your risk of developing ulcers.
If digestive tract tumors cause GERD, the tumors may need to be removed, and chemotherapy can help to reduce their size before any surgical intervention takes place. Your doctor or pharmacist can help you to treat the underlying cause of your heartburn or acid reflux to ensure that whatever treatment they prescribe is effective. Otherwise, you may not get the relief you need.
What Is the Best Natural Antacid?
What is the best natural antacid?
There are actually a variety of natural antacids that you can try to get some relief for your symptoms of heartburn, acid reflux, or GERD. This includes taking a teaspoon of baking soda mixed in with 8 ounces of water to neutralize stomach acid.
You can also avoid lying down after eating so that the contents of your stomach cannot be easily shifted into your esophagus. Some people who have GERD symptoms chew sugar-free gum as a way to stimulate saliva production and remove any acid that could be left behind after they eat. Some teas, such as chamomile and ginger, could also help to calm your stomach after eating or during a period of stomach upset. Some teas are even marketed specifically to ease your stomach discomfort.
What Is Metformin?
Metformin is a popular diabetes medication that can help to control blood sugar levels in adults diagnosed with type II diabetes, according to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA). It is not a medication that is used to treat juvenile or type I diabetes. It is a small pill taken orally, often each day. In order to get metformin, you will need a prescription from your doctor or specialist, as it is only available through prescription. There is not an over-the-counter version that exists.
By properly controlling your blood sugar, metformin can limit the impact of diabetes on other critical organs. This includes preventing kidney damage, possible blindness, and amputation associated with injuries from diabetes. It is a type of sulfonylureas. Most doctors prescribe the medication to be taken one to three times a day in order for patients to manage their sugar levels throughout the day. It can be used in combination with other medications if necessary.
What Does Metformin Do?
Metformin is a biguanide that reduces blood sugar levels by reducing the amount of sugar that your liver produces. It helps to restore the natural function of the pancreas and increases the insulin sensitivity of your body’s muscle cells. It can help lower your blood sugar levels overall through the day, as well as blood sugar levels after meals.
By making your body more sensitive to its own insulin, you can reduce insulin resistance and help your body’s cells absorb sugar better. This can reduce the overall amount of sugar in your blood. Insulin is a hormone that your body produces to move the sugar in your blood into your body’s cells so that you have the energy that you need. Sugar buildup can cause insulin resistance.
In addition, metformin decreases your body’s natural process of sugar absorption. Specifically, metformin reduces sugar absorption throughout your intestines. This leads to lower blood sugar levels.
Is Metformin Dangerous?
Metformin is not inherently dangerous if used as prescribed and well monitored. It is a commonly prescribed medication that can be considered effective. The most serious side effect of metformin is lactic acidosis, a dangerous side effect that causes your body to overproduce or underuse lactic acid. This can injure your liver or kidneys.
There have been concerns that the trace amounts of the NDMA found in Zantac are also found in metformin. This is a very real concern, as NDMA is a carcinogen. The FDA tested metformin in 2020 and found that the levels of NDMA in metformin are not as high as in ranitidine, if at all. If you have any questions about the safety of metformin relative to benefits and cancer risk, be sure to discuss all of your concerns with your doctor, specialist, or pharmacist the next time you see them.
Why Is Metformin Banned?
Currently, metformin is not banned in the United States. It is still a widely prescribed medication in America. There were some concerns in late 2019 about the safety of metformin. In countries outside of the U.S., NDMA was found in metformin. The agency issued a statement in December 2019 about the impurities of diabetes drugs found outside of the U.S.
In February 2020 the FDA published its findings into NDMA and found that the metformin products approved by the organization did not exceed the acceptable daily intake levels of NDMA. Even though metformin has been banned in other countries, it has not been banned in the United States. If you believe that your cancer is linked to your exposure to NDMA found in metformin or Zantac, you can call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm at (800) 635-1144 to discuss what happened with a member of our legal team.
What Is in Metformin?
Each tablet of metformin includes metformin HCl and other inactive ingredients such as cellulose acetate, hypromellose, magnesium stearate, povidone, sodium lauryl sulfate, synthetic black iron oxides, and candelilla wax. There are different formulations based on the specific brand or generic option you choose.
There have been concerns about the safety of metformin. Some countries have taken it off the market because of possible cancer risks. If you have any questions about metformin, you can discuss your concerns with your doctor.
A Zantac Ranitidine Cancer Lawyer Can Handle Your Potential Case
The companies that manufactured and sold ranitidine products did so under the guise that this medication is safe to take, even in over the counter circumstances. As it turns out, there are significant safety concerns about these medications. Research highlights how the traces of NDMA found in ranitidine are linked to cancer. This is a significant risk to your personal health if you ingested ranitidine regularly by taking Zantac or related medications.
No company has the right to falsely advertise its products as safe when the drugs it sells are unsafe. When you take a medication, you rightfully expect it to be safe. If you find out that years later a medication that you believed was harmless contributed to your cancer diagnosis, rightfully you would be devastated. It could cost you hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical treatments, therapies, and pain and suffering. You have a right to take legal action with a Zantac ranitidine cancer lawyer.
Call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm at (800) 635-1144 to discuss your options for legal recourse and see what a Zantac ranitidine cancer lawyer can do for you. We can help to provide support to you and your family throughout the process. There is no cost for the consultation and no up-front fees since we work on a contingency fee basis.
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