Zantac could cause lung cancer in humans based on the evidence that a harmful chemical in its makeup causes lung cancer in animals, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Zantac is a medication used to treat various gastrointestinal conditions such as acid reflux disease, heartburn, and stomach ulcers. The government recalled Zantac and similar medicines containing ranitidine due to their contamination with NDMA, a known carcinogen.
NDMA (N-nitrosodimethylamine), which causes cancer in animals, is a possible carcinogenic in humans. NDMA is also toxic to the livers of humans and animals.
The CDC released data confirming that rodents ingesting NDMA, or breathing air containing NDMA for more than a few weeks, contracted lung cancer as well as liver cancer and other liver damage.
NDMA might play a role not only in lung cancer, but also in other cancers, particularly stomach, intestinal, bladder, esophageal, colorectal, and liver cancers.
The Link Between Ranitidine and NDMA
Laboratory testing conducted by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) revealed that the concentration of NDMA in ranitidine medications increases over time and with high temperatures. As a consequence, the FDA asked for a recall of the drugs. The FDA also advised consumers to stop taking any drugs containing ranitidine if possible.
Alternative Drugs for Gastrointestinal Conditions
If you have used H2 blockers such as Zantac for your heartburn, acid reflux, or other gastrointestinal issues, your doctor will be able to advise you about any alternative medication that you might be able to take now.
There are many alternative treatment options, for example, Proton Pump Inhibitors and over-the-counter antacids depending on your condition. You may also be able to adjust your lifestyle and diet to help with any heartburn or acid reflux problems.
Zantac Cancer Lawsuits
There is some evidence that NDMA in Zantac can cause lung cancer, as well as many other cancers. The FDA removed all ranitidine-containing medications from circulation, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, due to a risk to public health.
Consumers that have developed cancer are now suing the manufacturer of Zantac, alleging that drug manufacturer knew of the cancer risk and chose not to disclose the information. The manufacturer was also slow to stop the sale of Zantac in the United States, despite the emerging controversy surrounding Zantac and NDMA in 2019.
If you have developed cancer and believe that this is due to long-term use of Zantac or another drug containing ranitidine, you may also be able to file a lawsuit or join a class action and receive compensation for any medical bills and lost wages, for example.
It is no easy task to hold a multinational company to account. You will have to prove that you used Zantac and that you have a type of cancer that potentially shows a link to NDMA. Some of the main cancer types listed on cases include:
- Stomach cancer
- Intestine cancer
- Colorectal cancer
- Bladder cancer
- Esophageal cancer
- Liver cancer
If you believe Zantac caused your lung cancer, you may also qualify. There are potentially many people affected by NDMA, and it is important to hold negligent drug manufacturers to account for their negligence, which can cost lives.
A Ranitidine Cancer Lawsuit Lawyer Can Help
Proving liability in a drug-related product liability case can be challenging. To prove a link between your cancer and Zantac, or another ranitidine-containing medication, you will have to provide conclusive evidence. The length of time you have taken the drug, as well as the dosage, can play an important role in proving a link.
If the manufacturer knew that their drug contained a carcinogenic substance, and negligently failed to disclose this information, they should be held accountable. However, multinational pharmaceutical companies have the resources and legal help to fight any claims. A ranitidine cancer lawsuit lawyer by your side might be able to help build a case, including gathering evidence and expert witnesses.
We do not shy away from tough cases or holding large companies to account. There is no risk for you as we do not charge any attorney’s fees upfront, and only get paid when we win your case. Call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm now for your free consultation and find out if you could receive compensation at (800) 635-1144.