Is There A Recall on Zantac?

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As of the month of November 2019, the drug Zantac was recalled by the Food and Drug Administration. The statement issued by the FDA warns users of possible contamination in the drug. The chemical NDMA as well as other nitrosamine impurities, both of which had previously been found to be carcinogenic, had been found in this product.

In the United Kingdom, the Medicines and Healthcare Regulatory Agency (MHRA) also issued a recall, advising healthcare professionals to discontinue supplying the drug immediately and to return all in-stock products to the supplier right away.

The MHRA, together with the European Medicines Agency, is determining the impact of the contamination on people’s health. No doubt about it, this is an issue that is affecting people all over the world.

What is Zantac used for?

Zantac, with active ingredient ranitidine, has been used both with and without a prescription for the treatment of ulcers in the intestine and the stomach, gastroesophageal reflux disease (also referred to as GERD), and any other condition related to excess acid in the stomach.

As opposed to antacids that neutralize the acid that is already present in the stomach, ranitidine reduces the amount of acid that the stomach makes.

Is every medicine containing ranitidine being recalled?

No. The recall affects only products that show levels of NDMA higher than 96 ng or 0.32 parts per million. These numbers fall above the acceptable daily levels.

Are there safer alternatives to Zantac?

Similar medicines have been tested for the presence of ranitidine and, so far, these OTC alternatives have been found to be safe:

  • Tagamet

  • Pepcid

  • Nexium

  • Prilosec

  • Prevacid

Have you been taking Zantac or other drugs containing ranitidine?

If you have, now would be a good time to talk to your doctor and discuss the potential harm that it may have caused you and what alternative medicines you can take to control your condition. Your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, such as being careful when consuming certain foods or beverages, such as spicy foods and alcohol.

What are the effects of consuming NDMA?

As a known carcinogen, NDMA is worrisome enough. Additionally, you may experience:

  • Hair loss

  • Deficiency of vitamin B-12

  • Liver failure

  • Jaundice

  • Skin rashes

  • Higher risk of pneumonia

  • Irregular or accelerated heartbeat (arrhythmia or tachycardia)

  • Disorders of the nervous system

If you or a loved one have been taking Zantac with or without a prescription and are experiencing any of the medical issues listed above, including as well cancers of the stomach, the bladder or the kidneys, you should get in touch with a seasoned, diligent attorney that can help you understand all legal options open to you.

Join the Zantac lawsuit

At 1-800-Injured, we understand that there is nothing more valuable or important than your health. We also know that you, your loved one and millions of people have taken this drug and may be suffering the medical consequences of ingesting a known carcinogen. Join the lawsuit with a knowledgeable attorney by your side and get the damages you may be entitled to. Whether they are medical expenses you have had to pay so far and those you may have to pay in the future or economic losses due to not being able to return to work, an attorney can help you fight for your rights.