The drug Zantac is easily available over the counter medicine for heartburn, acid reflux, and some other stomach issues. People are using Zantac for decades considering it is a safe medicine. But recently it is been found that Zantac contains low levels of a cancer-causing chemical which is known as ranitidine.
The Real Problem
Zantac is classified as H2 blockers which decrease stomach acid and acid reflux and are available in the market since 1980. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has tested some samples and found N-nitroso dimethylamine (NDMA) in this drug.
NDMA is a dangerous chemical that can cause tumors in the liver and other organs in experimental animals and carcinogenic, a substance that can cause cancer in humans. Because of these side effects, many countries recalled this drug from the market to safeguard the consumers. Companies have stopped their production and distribution of this drug.
If you or your loved ones are taking or have taken Zantac in the past, know your legal options for filing a Zantac lawsuit to seek monetary losses. Experienced attorneys of Shouse Law Group in CA will fight for you to claim your loss from the manufacturer. They provide free consultations and case evaluations for you.
What Is NDMA?
NDMA was used to make fuel for a rocket, but its production got stopped after finding high-levels of the chemicals that contaminated water, soil, and air. It is also present in some household products like shampoo and detergent.
NDMA is a highly toxic chemical and is considered a cancer-causing element in humans. When induced on laboratory animals, NDMA has caused liver damage. There are fewer human-based studies available, but enough animal-based studies got conducted to infer the toxic effects of NDMA.
NDMA is a food contaminant found in cured meat products. If you favor cured meats, then you have to reconsider it now. In less amounts, it is also found in vegetables, alcohol beverages, grilled chicken, cheese, tobacco, and beer.
Previously NDMA was found in blood-pressure medication Valsartan that got sold under the name Diovan. Because the levels of NDMA were unacceptable, several batches of this drug got recalled.
But FDA also says that the amount of NDMA found in Zantac or ranitidine is relatively lower than that found is in common food.
What Should You Do?
If you are taking Zantac for heartburn or other conditions, talk to your doctor for an alternate drug. If you are taking Zantac over-the-counter, consider switching to other OTC drugs that are available. If you are not taking it for a long time, then there is nothing to be worried about because this drug is not acutely dangerous.
If you develop any of the following cancer symptoms, consult your physician as soon as possible.
- Unintentional weight loss
- Poor appetite
- Tarry or Bloody stools
- Nausea or vomiting
- A change in bowel habits
- Fatigue, weakness and dizziness (symptoms of anemia)
- Greasy or Light-colored stools
- Abdominal pain
- Back pain
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
- Dark urine or blood in the urine
- Urinary urgency or painful urination
- Itchy skin
Apart from getting treatment, consult your lawyer if you were using Zantac for a long period.