An increasing number of reports are linking Zantac to cancer cases. Zantac (generic name ranitidine) is a popular drug used in treating and controlling heartburn. Recent lawsuits against Zantac manufacturers allege that the product contains dangerous levels of a known cancer-causing chemical called N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA). A Zantac lawsuit would seek to hold manufacturers liable for allegedly concealing the cancer dangers associated with the product.
If you developed cancer after taking this heartburn medication, do not hesitate to speak with a dangerous pharmaceutical product attorney. Our team of Zantac lawyers can help you navigate the legal system and fight for compensation.
What is Zantac?
Zantac belongs to a category of pharmaceutical drugs called “H2 blockers.” These types of drugs work by lowering the amount of stomach acid the body produces. As an antacid medication, Zantac has been available for several decades now, for uses like:
- Heartburn and upset stomach
- Ulcers
- Acid reflux
- Various gastrointestinal and throat issues
Thus, if you took Zantac for any of these or other related conditions, and were subsequently diagnosed with cancer, you may be able to pursue a lawsuit for your injuries and losses. In cases involving the loss of a loved one, wrongful death damages may also be appropriate.
Does Zantac Cause Cancer?
The higher levels of NDMA impurities in Zantac medications are linked with an increased cancer risk in humans. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has released several advisory notices alerting the public of NDMA impurities present in Zantac and ranitidine medications. NDMA has been described as a “known carcinogen” in test animals, and humans may be particularly sensitive to NDMA exposure.
The FDA sets acceptable thresholds for NDMA daily intake at below 100 nanograms. Alarmingly, studies indicate that just one 150 mg dose of Zantac may contain upwards of 2.5 million nanograms of NDMA.
Also, newer FDA testing reveals that NDMA impurities in Zantac can increase over time as the products are stored (even in normal storage conditions and temperatures). Thus, older Zantac products may contain even more NDMA, further increasing cancer risks for consumers. A knowledgeable attorney could help you understand the link between Zantac and cancer.
What Type of Cancer Does Zantac Cause?
NDMA, Zantac, and ranitidine have a history of being associated with several types of primary cancers in humans. These include:
- Breast cancer
- Stomach cancer
- Testicular cancer
- Small intestine cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Esophageal cancer
- Bladder cancer
- Liver cancer and other cancers
Besides these major cancer risks, Zantac side effects can also include headaches, abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting, and other conditions. There are also health concerns associated with infants, as Zantac was commonly prescribed to babies for acidic stomach and other conditions.
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with any of these types of cancer after using Zantac, you should contact one of our injury attorneys. The lawyers at Childers, Schlueter & Smith, LLC are available for a no-cost, private consultation to discuss your legal options moving forward.
Is There a Zantac Recall?
The FDA has requested that all Zantac products be removed from the market. As a result of this request, Zantac (and its generic counterparts) will no longer be allowed for over-the-counter sales or through prescriptions.
Many companies have already begun the process of withdrawing and recalling Zantac products to reduce risks to consumers. Click here for more FDA alerts regarding other products.
What Types of Damages are Available in a Zantac Lawsuit?
The types of cancer caused by NDMA and Zantac can be highly serious, resulting in major life changes for the affected person, as well as their family and loved ones. Tragically, in certain cases, the condition can be fatal.
While no amount of monetary damages can fully compensate for such losses, a settlement or verdict in a Zantac lawsuit can help you deal with the challenges you’re facing. However, a damages award can help facilitate a better life for the injured party as they move forward with recovery.
A damages award can help with:
- Costs of medical treatment, hospital stays, and medication
- Lost work wages (for instance, if you had to take time off from work for treatment)
- Loss of an ability to earn income in the future
- Loss of consortium
- Various other financial setbacks and losses
- Wrongful death if the untimely passing is related to a known Zantac induced cancer
Also, a monetary damages award can sometimes help the injured person gain access to treatment that normal insurance methods might not cover. A skilled and experienced attorney can help obtain a favorable outcome in a Zantac lawsuit.
Get in Touch with an Experienced Zantac Attorney
The injuries caused by Zantac are affecting many consumers who might not know that they are entitled to legal recourse. At Childers, Schlueter & Smith, LLC, we understand the types of issues and challenges such conditions can cause, and are here to provide you compassionate, responsive legal guidance.
Our Zantac lawyers work tirelessly to get you on the right track towards justice and recovery for you and your loved ones. Contact us for an evaluation of your case. Starting the process is the first step towards regaining your life. We provide representation for clients all over the country with unparalleled experience and results.
FAQs: Zantac Cancer Lawsuits
How Can a Zantac Attorney Help Me?
Lawsuits that involve defective pharmaceuticals and drug products will involve complex legal theories and concepts. There may be different filing deadlines, evidence requirements, and other points that must be addressed.
A skilled Zantac attorney can help you organize the evidence and documents needed for litigation, and can help prepare an effective case strategy. Our attorneys will do all the heavy lifting for you to help ensure the most favorable outcome for your case.
Visit our general FAQ page if you have questions about how a personal injury lawsuit works.
Is There a Zantac Class Action Lawsuit?
Class action litigation has been initiated against the manufacturers of Zantac. These types of lawsuits aim to streamline the litigation process by combining many different claims into one larger case. You should consult with an attorney to decide whether you need to file your own individual Zantac lawsuit.
Why Has Zantac Been Recalled?
In a broad sense, the ultimate purpose of any product recall is to help improve consumer safety by removing the products from shelves. In this case, the recall serves to reduce the risk of exposure to cancer-causing substances found in Zantac and ranitidine. For this reason, you should immediately cease any Zantac consumption, and report any retailers who are still selling or distributing Zantac or any other dangerous drugs.
Who Can Qualify for Participation in a Zantac Lawsuit?
To qualify for a Zantac lawsuit or settlement, you will need to satisfy a few different requirements. These include:
- The injured or affected person consumed a Zantac product
- The usage resulted in an injury or medical condition (in this case, a cancer diagnosis)
- The cancer diagnosis is causally related to the Zantac consumption
These legal elements can require the assistance of an attorney, especially when proving the connection between diagnosis and product usage. Contact the lawyers at Childers, Schlueter & Smith to learn how we can help protect your legal rights.
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