Zantac users across the country grappled with feelings of confusion, fright, and anger when the recall of the drug was announced in late 2019. The medication, which has been a longstanding top choice for heartburn treatment, was identified as dangerous and possibly carcinogenic. This prompted a nationwide removal of the product from stores and warnings against use. Many people who previously relied on the drug as an important part of their health plan have chosen to take legal action against the drug’s manufacturers and are bringing forward claims of a link between Zantac use and cancer diagnoses.Background on the Zantac Recall
Before the recall was ordered, Zantac was one of the most popular heartburn treatment medications available. The recall was prompted by reports that the medication contained N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), a chemical compound that has been labeled as a known carcinogen. The reason for the presence of the impurity is still under investigation by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and they have continually conducted tests since the impurities were initially detected. Major retailers including Wal-Mart, Walgreens, CVS, and Rite-Aid removed Zantac from their shelves in response to the recall. The recall eventually expanded to include multiple forms of ranitidine, the generic form of Zantac. As more information on the drug’s dangers were revealed and long-time users began to make connections with their own illnesses, lawsuits were filed across the country.
Updates as of April 2020
The story surrounding the recall of Zantac is continuously developing. Although the FDA did not order the initial recall, which was voluntarily ordered by drug manufacturers, the agency has stepped in to warn consumers of the risks of use.
In an April 1st press release, the FDA stated that all forms of ranitidine must be immediately removed from the market and made unavailable to consumers. According to the release, “The agency has determined that the impurity in some ranitidine products increases over time and when stored at higher than room temperatures and may result in consumer exposure to unacceptable levels of this impurity.”
Filing a Zantac Injury Lawsuit
If you or a loved one are a current or former regular Zantac user and have been diagnosed with cancer, you may be able to file a lawsuit. Zantac is manufactured primarily by the pharmaceutical company Sanofi, but there are many other manufacturers who produce ranitidine medications. These companies can be held liable for damages which may include the cost of cancer treatment and other medical bills, lost wages, and non-economic damages.
The Christian & Christian legal team can help you if you would like to file a lawsuit against drug manufacturers and other parties who are liable for injuries and illnesses caused by Zantac use. We are dedicated to helping the victims of negligence recover the compensation they deserve.
If you are interested in speaking with our legal team, schedule a free consultation with our attorneys via phone at (864) 408-8883 or by completing our online contact form.