The FDA in September of 2019 announced that Zantac contains a cancer-causing chemical, known as N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA). The announcement and revoking of the drugs by several companies has led to a massive class action by people claiming they are currently suffering from cancer due to this drug consumption. Drug Injury News helps you stay informed about the drugs you are consuming and its possible dangers. People who haven’t yet been diagnosed with cancer are suing the company for placing them at a huge risk of getting cancer. Though it is still to be proven in court whether there is a direct link between Zantac and cancer in human beings, the fact that there is a cancer-causing chemical in the drug means that there is a possibility that you can get cancer from Zantac.
1. Zantac For Acid Reflex and Heartburn
The drug that is in Zantac is Ranitidine which is the chemical that manages heartburn and acid reflux. The drug was at a peak in sales in the United States, where it was first sold, before becoming a global pharmaceutical option for the problem. With annual sales of 129 million, the brand enjoyed success until the FDA announced the cancer-causing chemical to be found in the drug. The announcement of cancer-causing chemical, NDMA, has since resulted in a Zantac lawsuit.
2. What Is NDMA
NDMA is the chemical found in Zantac which has caused the lawsuit to take the course. The Environmental Protection Agency classifies the chemical as a carcinogen due to its role in modifying DNA. There are debates as to whether the mere presence of NDMA is the issue, or if it is a matter of the dosage that is found in the drug.
Valisure, an online pharmacy in the Connecticut United States, was the first company to discover the presence of NDMA. While the FDA argues that the drug itself is an impurity because of the presence of the chemical, Valisure states that when present in the correct dosages, NDMA is in-fact required to assist in digestion of the drug. Such information from different parties involved in the lawsuit, is what will be considered throughout the process of the lawsuit.
The action that followed the FDA announcement was the recall of the Zantac drug. Companies took down the drug from shelves as a precautionary measure regarding the claim that the drug had already caused cancer illnesses.
3. Zantac Lawsuit
Some claims have been already filed regarding Zantac and cancer patients. Those that have not been diagnosed with cancer are suing the company for the potential risk of cancer. Zantac is said to have placed the profits before the health status of its customers and they are expected to compensate all those that are involved in the lawsuit.
4. Cancer from Zantac
Different types of cancer are listed as a result of Zantac. These include; cancer of the bladder, stomach, breast, small intestines, ovaries, kidney and pancreas. Symptoms of cancer range from jaundice, nausea, fever, vomiting, abdominal cramps as well as dizziness. If you or someone you know have been taking Zantac and have been feeling these symptoms, it is advised that you visit your doctor for a medical diagnosis. Although cancer is a traumatic diagnosis, there are ways of managing and these are discussions that a doctor can have with patients.
5. What Should I Do Now?
If you suffer from heartburn or acid reflux, there are alternative drugs that you can take instead of Zantac. There are also daily habits that you can infuse into your life that contribute to the management of the problem. If you have been taking Zantac and are facing adverse symptoms, speak to your doctor and engage in the lawsuit processes that are currently underway. Always make sure to also carry out your independent research on any drug that you intend to take, just so you are well informed of what’s the reaction of your body and also possible side-effects.
Conclusion
The fact that there is a cancer-causing chemical in Zantac, means that you can get cancer from taking the drug. Currently, the studies on file show that the drug indeed causes cancer in animals, but the hard facts of the drug causing cancer in humans is still to be proven. If this fact is proven in court, all persons that have been involved in the lawsuit will be compensated.
If you are worried that you have been exposed to cancer by taking Zantac, be sure to contact your doctor for health advice and the legal teams for your participation in the Zantac lawsuit.
