Yes, you are able to file a lawsuit on behalf of a loved one affected by Zantac. This is especially true if the loved one died because of their illness or if they are otherwise unable to file a lawsuit on their own behalf.
Criteria for Zantac Lawsuits
While you are able to file a lawsuit against any person or company that injures you or sells a dangerous product under false marketing that claims it is safe, there are generally some criteria that lawyers may look for when deciding to represent you in your Zantac lawsuit. The criteria may include:
- Purchase of Zantac or another ranitidine product
- Consumption of Zantac or another ranitidine product
- Diagnosis of bladder cancer or stomach cancer
These are just some of the criteria that may be used when determining what advice to give you and whether you meet the eligibility requirements for established class action lawsuits. Generally, you will need some sort of proof that you took the medication. This can be a prescription from the doctor or receipts for when you purchase the medication over the counter. In some cases, this might mean getting a doctor’s note that they recommended it in the past. It is possible that you can build a legal case without this information, but it could be more difficult.
Class Action vs. Personal Injury Lawsuits
Since the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued warnings about the safety and voluntary recall of Zantac, several class-action lawsuits have already been filed against Sanofi and Boehringer Ingelheim, the manufacturers of Zantac, for making and selling unsafe medication and its marketing practices. Additional class action lawsuits are being filed against the company as the research is ongoing.
There are some advantages to joining a class action lawsuit rather than filing a personal injury lawsuit against the company. Generally, it can be simpler and more efficient to group many victims together to sue a larger company. If you have any questions about which path is the correct one for you, be sure to discuss your concerns with a personal injury lawyer knowledgeable about pharmaceutical class action lawsuits and personal injury cases.
Settlements vs. Trials
In many cases, large corporations will try to settle cases out of court to prevent the negative publicity that a courtroom trial would bring to the company. Lawyers often advise clients to accept a settlement that is fair over continuing to pursue the case in court. After court fees, the stress of a court trial, and the length of time needed to continue through the court process, it could be better to accept a fair settlement offer for both parties.
Sometimes a settlement cannot be reached and the case will go to trial. Your personal injury lawyers are well prepared to represent you within the courtroom. In the case of a lawsuit against a pharmaceutical company, offering settlements could be perceived as an admission that the medication is dangerous. This can complicate the likelihood of a settlement out of legal proceedings. Your personal injury lawyer will be able to discuss all of the different strategies that may come into play over the course of a lawsuit.
Zantac Injuries
According to UC San Diego Health, the research into the injuries caused by common acid reflux medications is ongoing, even though it has been suspected for some time. Some Zantac-related injuries may include:
- Bladder cancer
- Stomach cancer
- Liver damage or fibrosis
These are just some of the identified injuries Zantac may cause. However, you may experience other types of injuries not included on this list.
Steps to Take
If you currently take Zantac, many researchers, universities, and the FDA are recommending that you stop taking the medication and contact your doctor to see what alternatives may be available for you. If you are taking the prescription version of ranitidine, call your doctor before stopping the medication completely to get their advice on what you should do. If you have any Zantac at home, go ahead and dispose of unused medication in accordance with local law and best practices.
If you have taken Zantac over the years and have already been diagnosed with bladder or stomach cancer, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit or join an existing class-action lawsuit. you can to contact the office of a personal injury lawyer to request more information about pursuing justice. They will be able to advise you on what information you will need for your case.
Call to Schedule a Free Consultation
Whether you want to file a Zantac lawsuit on behalf of a loved one or for yourself, call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm at (800) 635-1144 to speak with a member of our legal team to learn more about the process. We can answer questions that you may have about eligibility for class action lawsuits or other legal options.