Zantac Lawsuit

Legal Options for Those Diagnosed with Cancer After Taking Zantac

Zantac, a widely used heartburn medication, was a staple in households across the United States for decades. Unfortunately, for many who relied on Zantac to alleviate acid reflux and related symptoms, there was an unexpected and life-threatening consequence—the discovery of NDMA, a potential carcinogen, in Zantac and other ranitidine-containing products. As a result, people who took Zantac and later developed cancer are now pursuing legal action with the help of a Zantac lawsuit attorney against the manufacturers.. 

Lawsuits.com is a network of local attorneys offering the latest updates on mass torts and class actions, including Zantac lawsuits. With years of experience in dangerous drug cases, attorneys in the network can help those affected explore legal options. This comprehensive guide will cover the NDMA discovery, its health impacts, and the legal recourse available for victims. 

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What Zantac Medicines Are Affected?

Zantac contains the active ingredient ranitidine, an H2 (histamine-2) blocker, which decreases the amount of acid the stomach creates. Over-the-counter ranitidine is approved to prevent and relieve heartburn associated with acid indigestion and sour stomach. 

Prescription ranitidine is approved for multiple indications, including the treatment and prevention of ulcers of the stomach and intestines and the treatment of Zollinger-Ellison syndrome and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). 

Before Zantac was banned in the U.S., about 15 million Americans took prescription-strength ranitidine, and millions more regularly took the antiacid over-the-counter to treat heartburn.  

Some generic and brand-name products that contain ranitidine include:

• Zantac 150 mg Tablets
• Zantac 150 mg Maximum Strength
• Zantac 150 mg Maximum Strength Cool Mint
• Zantac 75 mg Tablets
• Wal-Zan 150 mg
• Wal-Zan 75 mg
• Heartburn Relief (ranitidine)
• Acid Reducer (ranitidine)
• Acid Control (ranitidine)

The Discovery of NDMA in Zantac: What Went Wrong?

Online pharmacy company Valisure conducted routine testing of ranitidine medications and, upon finding elevated levels of NDMA in ranitidine, first alerted the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in June 2019. 

NDMA is classified as a probable human carcinogen, meaning it is likely to cause cancer based on laboratory studies. While trace amounts of NDMA can be found in some foods and water, the levels detected in Zantac were far beyond what is considered safe.

Given the concern, in September 2019, Valisure provided detailed information about its findings in a citizen petition to the FDA, explaining that it had detected levels of NDMA at three million nanograms per tablet—far more than the agency’s permissible daily intake of 96 nanograms. Valisure said the NDMA was “likely due to an inherent instability of the ranitidine molecule. The ranitidine molecule contains both a nitrite and a dimethylamine (“DMA”) group which are well known to combine to firm NDMA.” 

The pharmacy called for a recall and suspension of sales of “all lots of all products containing ranitidine.” 

The FDA alerted the public of the presence of NDMA in ranitidine on Sept. 13, 2019. On Oct. 2, 2019, the agency recommended manufacturers test their ranitidine products for the presence of NDMA. 

How Did NDMA Form in Zantac?

The chemical instability of ranitidine is the primary culprit behind the formation of NDMA. Ranitidine, the active ingredient in Zantac, can break down over time or when exposed to high temperatures, creating NDMA. 

Furthermore, studies indicated that when ranitidine interacts with stomach acids, it can produce high levels of NDMA, putting long-term users at risk of cancer. This has raised significant concerns about the safety of Zantac, especially for individuals who took the drug regularly or in large doses.

Health Risks Linked to NDMA in Zantac

Research has suggested a potential link between long-term use of Zantac and an increased risk of various types of cancer. While studies are ongoing, some of the cancers potentially associated with Zantac use include:

• Bladder cancer  
• Stomach cancer  
• Colorectal cancer  
• Esophageal cancer  
• Liver cancer  
• Pancreatic cancer  
• Prostate cancer  

It's important to note that not everyone who has taken Zantac will develop cancer. However, NDMA exposure over an extended period can increase the likelihood of developing these cancers. Individuals who have taken Zantac for extended periods or who were on high doses are considered particularly at risk. If someone in this situation is diagnosed with any of these cancers, they may be eligible for legal compensation.

The Recall and the FDA’s Response

In response to the growing concerns, the FDA requested that all Zantac and ranitidine-containing medications be pulled from the market in April 2020. This marked a significant moment in the pharmaceutical industry, as it highlighted how a widely trusted medication could have severe, unintended consequences. The recall not only removed Zantac from store shelves but also opened the door for affected individuals to seek justice for the harm they suffered.

Although Zantac was removed from the market, thousands of people had already been exposed to NDMA by the time the recall occurred. Consequently, many individuals who later developed cancer after taking Zantac have filed lawsuits, seeking to hold the manufacturers accountable for their negligence.

Legal Options for Those Harmed by Zantac

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer after taking Zantac, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit against the manufacturers of these medications. Several Zantac lawsuits have been filed at the state level in Pennsylvania, Delaware, and California. 

If you or a loved one developed cancer after long-term use of Zantac, Lawsuits.com can connect you with a network of experienced attorneys who can evaluate your potential claim. Local attorneys will assess the unique details of each case and provide insight into the best legal avenue for your case. 

Compensation Available for Zantac Victims

Victims of NDMA-contaminated Zantac can pursue compensation for various damages, including:

• Medical Expenses: Those diagnosed with cancer after taking Zantac may face significant medical costs, including surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation, and ongoing treatments. Compensation can help cover these expenses.
• Lost Wages or Income: Cancer treatments can often prevent individuals from working, resulting in lost wages or even permanent disability. Plaintiffs may be entitled to compensation for past and future lost income.
• Pain and Suffering: Cancer and its treatments can cause physical and emotional pain, and plaintiffs may be awarded compensation for the suffering they have endured.
• Wrongful Death: Families who lost a loved one to cancer linked to Zantac may file a wrongful death lawsuit to recover compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other related damages.

The specific damages you may be entitled to will depend on the details of your case, including the severity of your illness and its impact on your life.

Proving Liability in Zantac Lawsuits

Establishing liability in Zantac lawsuits can be complex. Plaintiffs must prove that the manufacturers of Zantac, including Sanofi and GlaxoSmithKline, were aware of the potential dangers of NDMA contamination but failed to adequately warn consumers or pull the product from the market sooner. The discovery process in these cases often reveals critical internal documents, studies, and communications that demonstrate whether the companies acted negligently.

Local lawyers from Lawsuits.com’s network are experienced in handling mass tort and defective medication cases and will gather all the necessary evidence to build a strong claim. This includes medical records, prescription history, expert testimony, and documentation from regulatory agencies like the FDA.

Taking Action: Steps for Filing a Zantac Lawsuit

For individuals who have been diagnosed with cancer after taking Zantac, the legal process can feel overwhelming. However, Lawsuits.com’s network of local attorneys can assist with every step, ensuring that plaintiffs understand their rights and receive the compensation they deserve.

1. Initial Consultation

The first step is an initial consultation with a local attorney, who will evaluate the details of the case, including the individual’s medical history and usage of Zantac. The attorney will assess the potential for legal action and advise on the best course forward.

2. Filing a Claim

Once a case has been evaluated, the next step is to file a claim against the manufacturers. This involves submitting detailed information regarding the individual’s use of Zantac and the cancer diagnosis. In some cases, additional claims may be filed against pharmacies or retailers if they continued to sell Zantac after the NDMA contamination became known.

3. Discovery and Evidence Collection

During the discovery phase, attorneys will collect evidence to support the claim. This can include expert testimony, internal documents from the drug manufacturers, and scientific studies linking NDMA to cancer.

4. Negotiation or Trial

Once sufficient evidence has been gathered, the attorney may enter into negotiations with the defendants to reach a settlement. If a fair settlement cannot be achieved, the case may proceed to trial, where a judge or jury will determine the outcome.

Why Choose an Attorney from the Lawsuits.com Network?

Lawsuits.com is committed to connecting individuals harmed by dangerous drugs and medical devices with experienced, local attorneys who can fight for their rights. Here's why you should consider working with a lawyer from our network:

• Extensive Experience: Our network includes attorneys who have successfully handled complex pharmaceutical litigation cases.
• Local Representation: We connect you with lawyers in your jurisdiction who understand local laws and court systems.
• No Upfront Costs: The attorneys in our network typically work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don't pay unless you win your case.
• Personalized Attention: Your local lawyer will provide individualized attention to your case, ensuring your unique circumstances are fully considered.
• Comprehensive Support: From gathering medical records to negotiating with defendants, your attorney will handle all aspects of your case.

Zantac Lawsuits FAQs

How long do I have to file a Zantac lawsuit?

The statute of limitations varies by state and can depend on various factors, including when you were diagnosed with cancer and when you learned of the link between Zantac and cancer. It's crucial to consult a local attorney as soon as possible to ensure you don't miss any important deadlines.

What if I took generic ranitidine, not brand-name Zantac?

You may still have a case. Many lawsuits are being filed against both brand-name and generic manufacturers of ranitidine products.

How much does it cost to file a Zantac lawsuit?

The attorneys in the Lawsuits.com network work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don't pay any upfront costs, and the attorney only gets paid if you win your case or receive a settlement.

How long will my Zantac lawsuit take?

The duration of a Zantac lawsuit can vary widely depending on the specifics of your case and whether it goes to trial or settles out of court. Your local attorney can give you a better estimate based on your individual circumstances.

What if I'm not sure which brand of ranitidine I took?

Don't worry if you're unsure about the exact brand or manufacturer of the ranitidine product you used. Your attorney can help you obtain pharmacy records and other documentation to support your case.

How Lawsuits.com Can Help with Your Zantac Lawsuit

If you or a loved one developed cancer after taking Zantac, legal recourse is available. The network of local lawyers affiliated with Lawsuits.com can provide personalized legal assistance, helping victims pursue the compensation they need to cover medical bills, lost wages, and more.

At Lawsuits.com, the goal is to connect people with experienced attorneys who specialize in mass torts and defective drug claims. By working with a local attorney familiar with your jurisdiction, victims can take meaningful steps toward holding the responsible parties accountable.

Contact Lawsuits.com today at (888) 984-6195 or through the online form for a free consultation. Let’s discuss your case and options for financial recovery.