What Kind of Cancer Does Zantac Cause?

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Lawsuits Allege Zantac Use Caused Cancer

Zantac is one of many medications used to decrease the symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux. In exchange, however, some patients might develop cancer or experience Zantac cancer symptoms. The kind of cancer Zantac can cause is frightening. In fact, the risk of Zantac cancers has caused the FDA to request that manufacturers remove all ranitidine and Zantac products from the shelves. The company has stated that Zantac will not return. If you or a loved one has already taken Zantac and developed cancer, learn about your legal options by speaking with an experienced product liability lawyer today.

The Zantac cancer connection is simply too great to ignore. We are a national law firm focused on holding manufacturers of dangerous drugs responsible for their corporate negligence through Zantac cancer lawsuits. Our lawyers believe that Sanofi failed to warn consumers of the unacceptable levels of a potential human carcinogen (a substance that promotes the formation of cancer) known as NDMA and should be held accountable.

How Dolman Law Group Can Help With Your Zantac Cancer Lawsuit

After a Zantac cancer diagnosis, knowing you are not alone is important. Many individuals suffer from the same illnesses and complications after taking ranitidine. The key is to find a law firm that can offer you the support and legal guidance you need during this time to help you obtain the compensation you deserve.

Filing a Zantac cancer lawsuit is not easy and can take considerable time and legal experience. Your time is better spent focusing on your health and your treatment. Let an experienced Zantac Cancer Lawyer at our law firm focus their efforts on collecting the evidence you need and filing your claim.

Drug companies whose negligence seriously harms patients and consumers should be held accountable. Thousands of Zantac lawsuits are currently being filed across the country. At Dolman Law Group, we understand the impact of Zantac on people who develop cancer. You may have just been trying to heal your heartburn, but ended up with a much worse illness. Our Zantac cancer attorneys will work to hold Zantac manufacturers accountable for failure to warn, design defects, or manufacturing defects.

Allow our experienced product liability lawyers to focus their efforts on collecting the evidence to prove negligence caused cancer. We will keep in constant communication to ensure the claims process aligns with your recovery process.

Zantac Cancer Lawsuit MDL Status

The Zantac Lawsuit MDL (multidistrict litigation) is presently pending before Judge Rosenberg in the United States Federal Court For The Southern District of Florida. This serves the purpose of consolidating each and every Zantac cancer lawsuit before one judge and one courtroom in America. Lead counsel for the Zantac MDL includes Robert Gilbert, Tracy Finken Magnotta, Michael McGlamry, and Adam Pulaski.

Attorneys and injured patients recently filed Zantac cancer lawsuits throughout the United States. In fact, Attorney Dolman Law Group is presently investigating several hundred claims of being diagnosed with cancer as a result of using Zantac. Zantac litigation is in its infancy and scientific hearings (known as Daubert hearings) are still forthcoming.

The purpose of the Daubert hearings is to determine the strength of a correlation between the use of Zantac and the various types of cancer. These hearings will determine whether there is legitimate and strong scientific evidence (generally peer-reviewed medical studies backed up by the testimony of recognized experts) to prove that a specific cancer was likely to have been caused (causal relationship) with the use of Zantac.

Zantac Cancer Lawsuit Update July 7th, 2021

Judge Rosenberg dismissed all pending claims against several manufacturers of generic Zantac, including Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Par Pharmaceutical Inc., and Amneal Pharmaceuticals, LLC. Judge Rosenberg stated, “State law would require them to redesign or re-label ranitidine products, which they could not do under their federal duty of sameness,”

Rosenberg wrote. “They were not required to stop selling the products in order to comply with both federal and state law. Thus, the failure-to-warn and negligence claims are preempted.” Thus, she cited the preemption argument that is being utilized with continuing success by the pharmaceutical industry.

Zantac Cancer Lawsuit Update July 1st, 2021

Judge Rosenberg dismissed large portions of the multidistrict litigation claims that the heartburn-aiding drug Zantac allegedly causes cancer. Not to worry; this does not mean that you don’t have a claim. In fact, plaintiffs’ lawyers believe a large majority of the claims will be moving forward.

The types of claims that were dismissed fell under the U.S. Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO), along with medical monitoring claims seeking the reimbursement of costs for future diagnostic cancer testing. For instance, Judge Rosenberg’s reasoning for dismissing the RICO claims was on the basis that the consumers did not purchase Zantac directly from the manufacturers and therefore did not have standing. Regarding medical monitoring, that claim was dismissed altogether, as Judge Rosenberg having already found that such a claim did not belong in the class complaint.

Additionally, Judge Rosenberg also removed the distributors of Zantac, such as CVS and Rite Aid, from any and all personal injury claims against them and dismissed claims filed under the innovator liability theory, which creates liability for brand companies in the labeling of generic medications. In this situation, Judge Rosenberg found that the plaintiffs had failed to show negligence in terms of the manner in which the ranitidine products were stored and transported and whether they were exposed to high temperatures.

On the surface, these dismissals may appear to be a “doom and gloom” moment for the plaintiffs. However, outside the aforementioned, Judge Rosenberg stated that “most of the other dozen-plus claims contain enough factual content, accepted as true, renders the plaintiffs’ claims plausible.” Some of these claims include negligence, wrongful death, and design defect—all of which, therefore, will likely be moving forward in the process.

The Future of Zantac Cancer Lawsuit Litigation

Overall, these rulings were outlined in six orders and greatly reduced the scope of the litigation, with a stronger emphasis on brand manufacturers, such as GlaxoSmithKline, Pfizer Inc., Sanofi-Aventis, and Boehringer Ingelheim. Nonetheless, Judge Rosenberg has set a bellwether trial deadline of October 1, 2021.

A bellwether trial is essentially a “test trial” that involves a case from a large pool of claims filed against a particular party (or group of parties). The purpose of a bellwether trial is to serve as a “test case” in an effort to foresee how the future of the case may play out.

As with any mass tort lawsuit, the process is generally a few years at a minimum. Chances are it could take as long as five years before we see a Zantac lawsuit payout. If you are considering filing a claim for being diagnosed with cancer after years of using Zantac, contact us immediately. Our Zantac lawsuit team is fielding calls throughout the Country.

What Is Zantac?

Zantac, known as ranitidine in its generic form, is a well-established and widely used over-the-counter and prescription medication to fight heartburn, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and peptic ulcer disease. First introduced in 1981 by the Glaxo organization before it became GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), it was the world’s biggest-selling prescription drug in 1988 before it became available for over-the-counter use. Other manufacturers include Sanofi, Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson, Boehringer, and Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals.

Even though several more effective medications have eclipsed Zantac, it is still widely used and less expensive than the others. It was the 50th most prescribed medication in the United States, with more than 15 million prescriptions in 2016.

The manufacture and distribution of this popular acid reducer came to a halt in September 2019 as the toxin N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) was found in the drug from several different manufacturers. This nitrosamine impurity is a possible human carcinogen, even at low levels.

Currently, there is not enough scientific evidence for the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to determine how long NDMA has been present in ranitidine. If you currently take this medication or used it in the past, and you think you are experiencing Zantac cancer symptoms, contact your physician or another health care professional. You should discuss your treatment options and contact a dangerous drugs lawyer at our firm to determine your course of action.

NDMA: A Probable Human Carcinogen

N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) is a yellow, odorless liquid chemical found in water, soil, and air. Multiple manufacturing processes and water chlorination create it. According to the World Health Organization, NDMA is considered a human carcinogen that can lead to the development of cancer risks among those who consume it at sufficiently high levels.

NDMA can also be formed during the cooking of foods, especially food such as cured meats and fish, as they contain sodium nitrite as a preservative. It is also found in:

Vegetables
Cheeses
Alcoholic beverages
Fruits
Rubber products
Beer
Tobacco smoke

Preliminary testing by the FDA shows some samples of Zantac and ranitidine contain higher levels of NDMA than food. Although human studies are limited, NDMA is listed as a probable carcinogen to both animals and humans. It is still unknown how ranitidine was contaminated with NDMA, as found in laboratory tests.

It is also possible that generic versions of Zantac are contaminated with NDMA when manufactured in other countries without strict quality control standards. The Food and Drug Administration reports that its independent testing has shown that the heartburn medications Pepcid, Tagamet, Nexium, Prevacid, and Prilosec do not contain the chemical NDMA.

NDMA Previously Found in Other Medications

Angiotensin II Receptor blockers, including Valsartan, Losartan, and Irbesartan, were also recalled for NDMA contamination in 2018. In studies with these drugs, there did not seem to be a link to an increased short-term risk of getting cancer, but there was an increased risk of some single cancer outcomes observed.

Further studies are warranted, and until more information is available, many patients are steering clear of Zantac and opting for alternative medications such as Prevacid or Prilosec, which the FDA says are not contaminated with NDMA.

Zantac and Cancer: Why Is Zantac Still on the Market?

The American College of Gastroenterology reports that as many as 60 million Americans suffer from heartburn each month. Considering this fact, it is no wonder drug manufacturers are cashing in on their discomfort. While people who suffer from heartburn can reduce or eliminate their symptoms through dietary changes and stress management, these methods take time to work.

Studies have shown that when ranitidine mixes with the gastric fluid and sodium nitrites that stimulate the digestion process, high amounts of NDMA are produced. Valisure, an independent pharmacy, conducted an extensive study of ranitidine (a generic form of Zantac) in 2019. Their findings illustrated that a single ranitidine tablet contains in excess of 300,000 nanograms of N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA). To put that in proper context, the FDA-approved level of NDMA is 96 nanograms per single tablet. Thus, a single dosage of Zantac contained 3000 times the acceptable level of NDMA. Hence, why the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) pulled all versions of the popular heartburn drugs from shelves on April 1, 2020. The FDA determined that allowing Zantac to remain on the shelves put consumer health and safety at risk.

NDMA’s Link to Cancers

The concern with NDMA is that it can potentially cause cancer, even in small amounts. The longer the exposure to this carcinogen, the higher the chances are of developing cancer and other health problems such as liver disease. Rodent studies revealed a consistent carcinogenic effect of NDMA. The rate of hepatic, pulmonary, and renal tumors has been shown to increase in rodents with inhalation of NDMA and consumption of drinking water containing NDMA.

NDMA is one of the most potent animal carcinogens known to date. It is a proven, potent carcinogen for all species that were studied, both in single doses and with long-term exposure to smaller quantities. Of note, NDMA seems to be metabolized in the same way in human tissue and rodent tissue. Because of this, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies NDMA as probably carcinogenic to humans (Group 2A), highlighting that, for practical purposes, NDMA should be viewed as if it were carcinogenic to humans.

Furthermore, the National Toxicology Program (NTP) reasonably believes that NDMA is a human carcinogen, while the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) calls it a probable human carcinogen.

In December 2020, a new study linked increasing NDMA levels to the degradation of molecules in Zantac. This new study, combined with Valisure’s findings, shows that Zantac converted into high NDMA concentrations nearly 10 times the FDA’s acceptable consumption limit for NDMA. They also found increased nitrate concentrations.

Ranitidine and Bladder Cancer

The main ingredient in Zantac is ranitidine hydrochloride. Ranitidine is classified as part of a group of antacid drugs known as H2 blockers. In 2004, the National Cancer Institute published a study linking bladder cancer with ranitidine use. A 2016 study illustrates the use of ranitidine significantly increases the presence of NDMA in urinary excretion. This was a groundbreaking study published in the medical journal Carcinogenesis.

We are already representing numerous Zantac bladder cancer victims. Dolman Law Group is investigating numerous links between women presently undergoing breast cancer treatment who used Zantac for an extended period of time. Prescription Zantac and its over-the-counter version contain what has been deemed to be unsafe levels of ranitidine and, as a result, NDMA.

FDA Investigation of Ranitidine NDMA Exposure

The FDA found, via testing, that the levels of NDMA in ranitidine increase over time, even when stored under normal conditions at room temperature. It was the mere fact that a known carcinogen could increase within ranitidine over a finite period of time that prompted the FDA to order Zantac to be taken off the shelves.

There is increasing data suggesting a correlation between ranitidine and cancer. Researchers at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center are presently studying the link between ranitidine and various types of cancer. They are attempting to uncover the answers to serious and concerning health questions, such as:

Does Zantac cause cancer?
What is the Zantac cancer risk?

What Cancer Does Zantac Cause?

Since over-the-counter Zantac and ranitidine contain high levels of NDMA, it may be linked to several types of cancers, including stomach cancer, intestinal cancer, bladder cancer, and breast cancer.

Stomach cancer: This type of cancer forms over the course of many years. It is also known as gastric cancer and involves the abnormal growth of cells in the stomach. It can lead to difficulty swallowing, heartburn, nausea, and stomach pain. The five-year survival rate for individuals diagnosed with stomach cancer is 70 percent.
Intestinal cancer: A high exposure to NDMA can cause cancer in the small and large intestines. It can include sarcomas, lymphomas, and carcinoid tumors. The survival rate depends primarily on whether cancer has a chance to spread to other parts of the body.
Colorectal cancer: This type of cancer starts as a polyp in the rectum or colon. A polyp can grow into the rectum or colon wall over time, allowing cancer cells to infect blood and lymph vessels. Those infected vessels can carry disease to lymph nodes and the rest of the body. Larger polyps are more likely to cause cancer.
Esophageal cancer: NDMA can cause cancer cells to develop in the tissues of the esophagus and lead to esophageal cancer. This is more common in men and can cause difficulty swallowing, chest pain, and heartburn. Thus, many of these individuals take even more Zantac or ranitidine to control.
Bladder cancer: Bladder cancers are often diagnosed early and have a high success rate when treated. Symptoms of Zantac bladder cancer include blood in the urine and painful urination.
Liver cancer: Liver cancer can happen as a result of cancer cells developing in the liver or migrating to the liver from other infected areas. Liver cancer patients may suffer from abdominal pain, as well as weakness and swelling in the abdomen. Liver cancer risk is increased with ranitidine use.
Prostate cancer: The prostate is a walnut-shaped gland in the pelvis of men and can host cancer cells. Prostate cancer can lead to malignant growths, which serve as the second-leading cause of cancer death among men. This type of cancer is slow-growing and often results in erectile dysfunction and painful urination.
Pancreatic cancer: One of the most lethal forms of cancer, claiming around 47,000 lives every year. It is often deadly because its symptoms aren’t obvious and are typically not diagnosed until the later stages. Common symptoms include itchy skin, yellowing of the eyes, and abdominal pain.
Breast cancer: This cancer involves the abnormal growth of cells within the breasts. Zantac use can increase the risk of developing ductal carcinoma, which requires cancer cells to grow in the breast ducts. This type of cancer affects more than 180,000 women every year. However, it can also affect men. Zantac can increase the risk of developing type of breast cancer known as ductal carcinoma.
Throat/nasal cancer: This type of cancer occurs in the flat cells lining the throat. Symptoms include cough, voice changes, and sore throats. This is increased in individuals with GERD.

Other types of Zantac-related cancers include:

Brain cancer
Leukemia
Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
Multiple Myeloma
Islet cell tumors
Kidney cancer
Thyroid cancer

Zantac Breast Cancer Link

There is also anecdotal evidence that Zantac use might be linked to breast cancer. In 2008, a study showed that ranitidine and Zantac increased the risk of ductal carcinoma by more than two-fold. This increase occurred in both men and women. This is the most common type of breast cancer in the United States and accounts for 20 percent of all new cases.

In 2013, a Florida man filed a Zantac lawsuit alleging that the dangerous drug caused his breast cancer. Prior to his diagnosis, he took Zantac for four years regularly to treat his heartburn.

Zantac Liver Cancer Link

Our ranitidine cancer lawyers are presently investigating the link between numerous types of cancer and the use of Zantac. We strongly believe there is a causal link between Zantac and liver cancer. The CDC has expressly stated that NDMA can prove harmful to the livers of both humans and animals

The liver, along with our heart, is one of the most important organs. In fact, the liver serves to detoxify chemicals and filter blood passing through the body. Cancer cells often begin in other areas of the body and then spread to the liver. Symptoms of liver cancer include loss of appetite, upper abdominal pain, jaundice, vomiting and nausea, and white chalky stools.

We are presently representing many individuals who have been diagnosed with primary liver cancer as a result of Zantac use.

Common Zantac Cancer Symptoms

If you or someone you love takes Zantac or did in the past, it is crucial to be aware of cancer symptoms. Knowing these symptoms can potentially save your life. Contact your doctor to assess you for cancer caused by NDMA, so you can receive treatment before it worsens.

Common Zantac cancer symptoms include:

Unintentional weight loss
Poor appetite
Nausea or vomiting
Bloody or tarry stools (an indicator of intestinal bleeding)
Light-colored or greasy stools
A change in bowel habits
Symptoms of anemia such as fatigue, dizziness, and weakness
New abdominal pain unrelated to heartburn
Back pain
Yellowing of the skin or eyes
Dark urine
Blood in the urine
Urinary urgency or incontinence
Painful urination
Itchy skin

If you are experiencing any of these Zantac cancer symptoms, see your doctor as soon as possible. Additionally, you will want to consult a product liability attorney if you have a history of prescription or over-the-counter use of Zantac or ranitidine.

The Damages Caused by Zantac Cancer

Those that have developed cancer as a result of taking Zantac typically contend with particularly severe damages. Cancer is one of the most damaging illnesses that one can suffer from, with each different kind inflicting its own specific brand of harm that can change a person’s life. Regardless of the type of cancer one develops as a result of Zantac use, there are several damages that one will likely be able to claim in a product liability lawsuit regarding this dangerous drug.

Economic Damages Caused by Zantac Cancer

Even those with excellent health insurance coverage and savings to spare can end up financially ruined because of a cancer diagnosis caused by Zantac. The financial losses that are caused by an injury are known as economic damages and are the foundation of any personal injury lawsuit. One of the most serious economic damages caused by Zantac cancer is medical expenses. Treatment for cancer is notoriously expensive and can drain one’s savings. In addition to initial treatment costs, there are recurring expenses like prescriptions, doctor appointments, and therapies.

People suffering from Zantac-caused cancer also may have to deal with lost wages they missed out on because of their illness. Earning potential, in general, can be ruined when someone is rendered unable to work because of Zantac. This can be worsened if they are a family breadwinner with many people depending on them.

The following are the economic damages you can seek compensation for caused by Zantac cancer:

Medical expenses
Lost wages
Lost earning potential
Cost of household services the person living with cancer cannot perform
Wrongful death

Non-Economic Damages Caused by Zantac Cancer

Not all damages are as easy to calculate as economic damages like medical expenses or lost wages that simply require a look at some bills or pay stubs. There are many damages that do not directly cause financial losses and are known as non-economic damages. Zantac-caused cancer, or any cancer, often causes incredible pain, both physical and emotional in nature. This pain and suffering deserves compensation just as much as the economic losses caused by Zantac-related cancers.

Getting cancer from Zantac can cause a shock to the system, with a person’s life-changing forever from that point on. Suffering from such a severe illness can affect a victim’s ability to live a normal life. It can affect their daily life, mental health, and personal relationships.

You can seek compensation for non-economic damages caused by Zantac cancer. The following are some non-economic damages you could pursue compensation for in a Zantac cancer claim:

Pain and suffering
Loss of consortium
Loss of enjoyment of life
Emotional distress
Loss of society
Psychological injuries

Are You at Risk of Getting Cancer from Zantac?

Zantac can contain high levels of NDMA, consumption of which is found to increase the risk of cancer. NDMA exposure is suspected to increase the risk of several cancers, including tongue, esophagus, lung, pancreas, liver, kidney, and bladder cancers.

What are Your Chances of Getting Cancer from Zantac?

You should discuss your concerns about getting cancer from the use of Zantac with your doctor. There is no formula to determine what your risk might be. However, through animal testing, it is known that the higher doses and the longer exposures to NDMA increase the risk of test animals getting cancer. The incidence of liver tumors increased, and survival rates decreased in a dose-dependent manner when studied in lab rodents.

Ranitidine Cancer Risk

The FDA has requested that companies recall their ranitidine if testing shows levels of NDMA higher than the acceptable daily intake of 96 ng, or 0.32 parts per million for ranitidine. Although the FDA advisory states that the level of NDMA contamination is minimal in Zantac, some levels were 3,000 to 26,000 times more than what the FDA says is safe.

The amount of NDMA present in Zantac or ranitidine increases the longer the product is kept on shelves and if it is stored at higher than room temperature. Do you know if the Zantac you bought at Walmart was stored at room temperature or in a hot warehouse? Was the ranitidine you purchased at Walgreens on the shelf for months, or was it recently stocked? Once you get it home, how long does it stay in your medicine cabinet?

The longer the product is kept in storage, the higher the NDMA found in the tablets. This can increase your risk of getting bladder cancer, liver cancer, breast cancer, or even gastric cancer.

Zantac Recalls in the U.S.

Drug manufacturers may issue a voluntary recall to remove products that violate FDA regulations. Recalls protect public health from products that could present a risk of harm or gross deception by the drug manufacturer. Distributors and manufacturers can issue a voluntary recall at any time, although sometimes the FDA requests a recall. Either way, the FDA monitors the recall.

Multiple voluntary recalls have been issued for Zantac and ranitidine drugs. In mid-September 2019, the FDA announced to the public that NDMA was found in ranitidine samples. On September 24, 2019, the first voluntary recall was issued concerning this finding, and Sandoz ranitidine capsules were recalled. Two days later, a voluntary recall was issued for over-the-counter ranitidine tablets (both 75 mg and 150 mg), labeled and sold by Walgreens, Walmart, and Rite-Aid and manufactured by Apotex Corp.

In October 2019, two major drug companies, Apotex and Navartis, stated they were pulling all versions of generic ranitidine sold over-the-counter and via prescription throughout the U.S. Later that same October, pharmaceutical company Sanofi announced a voluntary recall of their over-the-counter ranitidine products Zantac 150, Zantac 150 Cool Mint, and Zantac 75.

Voluntary recalls were also issued for ranitidine oral solution from Lannett Company, Inc. and Novitium Pharma’s 150 mg and 300 mg capsules. Between November 2019 and January 2020, an additional eight recalls of ranitidine products were issued.

When Do You Need to Hire a Zantac Cancer Lawyer?

If you believe your cancer was caused by Zantac or ranitidine, you may need the help of a Zantac Cancer Lawyer. In order to pursue your case, your Zantac lawyer will help you to prove 3 things:

You Used Zantac or Ranitidine

Those who are interested in pursuing compensation for cancer caused by Zantac will, of course, have to first prove that they actually took the medication Zantac or ranitidine. The easiest way to prove this would be to contact your doctor or pharmacy to get records of your prescriptions. If you bought the medication over-the-counter, it may be a little hard to prove that you took the medication, but through the help of your personal injury lawyer, it can be done using receipts and statements from your doctor.

You Have Contracted Cancer

Zantac and ranitidine are most commonly known to be harmful in the sense that they could cause cancer. So to file a claim, you will not only have to prove that you have cancer, but that the type of cancer you have is linked to NDMA. These two stipulations can easily be achieved with the help of your lawyer, doctors, and medical experts.

You Contracted Cancer After Using Zantac or Ranitidine

Proving that your consumption of Zantac or ranitidine is linked to your cancer is where all cases get tricky. Generally, there is information, studies, and experts that can all testify to the fact that the two are linked. But you must also show that you consumed enough of the medication for it to have been dangerous. There are two things that can help prove that your consumption of Zantac caused your cancer: how much of the medication you took and how long you took it.

The longer you took the medication, and the more of it you took, the more likely it is that your cancer and your consumption of the drug are connected. This connection will be further developed with the help of your legal and medical expert team. This is why it is so important to have an experienced Zantac Cancer Lawyer on your side.

What is the Statute of Limitations for a Zantac Cancer Claim?

The statute of limitations refers to how long the victim of a personal injury has to file a claim or lawsuit with the at-fault party. According to Florida Statute 95.11, a personal injury victim has four years from the incident that caused the personal injury to file a claim or lawsuit.

When the clock starts on the statute of limitations for a Zantac cancer claim can be tricky to know because it’s challenging to perceive when the Zantac caused cancer. If you used it multiple times, it’s near impossible to narrow down when you got cancer. Some companies have argued that the statute of limitations should start once the victim starts experiencing symptoms of cancer.

If you wish to file a Zantac cancer claim, you should consult with a Zantac cancer attorney as soon as possible. They can help you narrow down your window for filing the claim, as well as collecting evidence, proving the at-fault party’s liability, and representing you in court.

Read What Leading Attorneys Say About Hiring a Zantac Cancer Attorney

We asked some of the top attorneys from around the country to answer an important question: “What are my legal rights if I’ve been diagnosed with cancer as a result of using Zantac?”

Here are their responses:

Steve A Barnes, Esq

On April 1, 2020, the FDA directed drug manufacturers to immediately withdraw from the market all Zantac and generic ranitidine drugs.

This followed a petition filed with the FDA by the online pharmacy company, Valisure, alerting the government to its findings of “extremely high levels of NDMA (a known carcinogen)… in every lot tested”.

NDMA is known to occur in many foods and beverages and is carcinogenic in very low doses. For this reason, the FDA has set acceptable daily intake of NDMA at 96 nanograms (96 billionths of a gram). Through its internal scientific studies, the online pharmacy, Valisure, reported that a single 150 mg Zantac (ranitidine) tablet produced 304,500 ng of NDMA, over 3,000 times the FDA recommended daily limit.

Why is this occurring? In its petition, Valisure concludes that the problem is not contamination of the drug. Instead, NDMA is likely formed in the body due to the inherent instability of the ranitidine molecule. This means that because of the way Zantac (ranitidine) is metabolized in the human body, NDMA is formed at unacceptable levels. A 2016 study at Stanford University found that patients taking 150 mg of Zantac had NDMA levels in their bodies exceeding 47,000 ng, nearly 500 times the FDA recommended daily limit. Since most of the NDMA would have been eliminated before reaching the urine, the level in the human body may have been much higher.

In 2011 a study was published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition which concluded that “dietary NDMA intake was significantly associated with increased risk of cancer in men and women and that “NDMA was associated with increased risk of gastrointestinal cancers.”

This was part of the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC), one of the largest cohort studies in the world.

These are just a few of the scientific studies that should have been known to the manufacturer of ranitidine products like Zantac. There are others. If you have been diagnosed with cancers such as bladder, breast, kidney, prostate, thyroid, testicular, uterine, esophageal/throat, intestinal, liver, nasal, ovarian, pancreatic, or stomach you should reach out to a law firm with experience in handling these cases. Presently, all lawsuits have been consolidated into what is known as an MDL (Multi-District Litigation) in the Southern Federal District of Florida. Therefore, you should give serious consideration to retaining a Florida based law firm.

Barnes Trial Group

— Update: 14-03-2023 — cohaitungchi.com found an additional article What Kinds of Cancers Does Zantac Cause? from the website www.gerlinglaw.com for the keyword can zantac cause breast cancer.

Jan 11, 2022 | By Gayle Gerling Pettinga | Read Time: 9 minutes

The popular stomach acid and heartburn medication, Zantac, has been linked to a notable increase in cancer risk. In 2020, the FDA recalled ranitidine, the generic name for Zantac and other over-the-counter stomach acid-blocking drugs. However, by that time, millions of Americans had potentially been exposed to a deadly carcinogen.

Today, Zantac class action lawsuit attorneys across the country are helping victims and their families pursue justice and fair financial compensation.

At Gerling Law, our Zantac lawsuit attorneys assist victims in Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, and Nationwide. For more than 50 years, our firm has provided aggressive, highly personalized representation to injury accident victims.

We believe that anyone who sustained harm due to the negligence or wrongful actions of a drug company deserves justice. You could be entitled to recover compensation for your medical treatment, lost wages, emotional trauma, and more.

The Link Between Zantac and Cancer

Ranitidine, used by millions of people around the world, has been sold under a variety of brand names as both a prescription and over-the-counter drug. Ranitidine in its original state is not believed to cause cancer. However, when the active ingredient of ranitidine breaks down, it releases a chemical compound known as N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA). NDMA is a carcinogen.

Ranitidine breaks down normally over time. When exposed to heat, however, the process occurs much more quickly. Consequently, if Zantac or another ranitidine drug was stored at a temperature much beyond room temperature, or if the product was exposed to high heat, the breakdown would occur much more rapidly.

N-nitrosodimethylamine is an extremely toxic substance. In addition to forming in the degradation of ranitidine, NDMA also results from the breakdown of rocket fuel components and other industrial processes. It can be found as an ingredient in some types of pesticides.

The World Health Organization (WHO) published information in 2008 that identified NDMA as a known carcinogen. The WHO’s toxicological review data looked at levels of NDMA found in drinking water sources around the world. No one expected to learn that this extremely toxic substance could be sitting in their own medicine cabinet, disguised as a popular and commonly used stomach acid-reducing medication.

What Is the Risk of Getting Cancer from Zantac?

Initially, data indicated that cancer risks stemmed primarily from using ranitidine products that had been exposed to heat. More recent research, however, indicates that conditions within the human gastric tract could be sufficient to cause NDMA production.

Research from 2016, wherein researchers monitored the levels of NDMA in the urine before and after taking ranitidine, supported this conclusion. Residual levels of the chemical increased more than 400-fold in the urine of those participants who took Zantac or another ranitidine drug.

No solid data exist yet to prove how much more likely you are to develop cancer overall if you took Zantac. However, researchers believe that anyone who took a ranitidine product twice a week or more for a period of months or years could face an increased risk of getting cancer.

The Types of Cancer Linked to Zantac Use

Medical experts and research scientists continue to gather data on this developing problem. However, thus far, the list of cancers associated with ranitidine use continues to grow.

These are some of the most common types of cancer caused by Zantac and ranitidine. Unfortunately, this list is in no way complete. It may be years or even decades before the medical and research communities can definitively list all the types of cancer that Zantac may have caused.

Zantac and Breast Cancer Risk: Does Zantac Cause Breast Cancer?

The link between ranitidine and breast cancer was one of the earliest discoveries about this drug. In 2008, a study examined the link between the use of histamine(2)-receptor antagonist (H(2) blocker) medications and breast cancer. Drugs falling into the H(2) blocker category include cimetidine, famotidine, and ranitidine. The study found no link between H(2) blockers and breast cancer in general.

However, the link between ranitidine and breast cancer was significant. In fact, the use of ranitidine increased the risk of ductal carcinoma by 220% and of estrogen receptor-positive/progesterone receptor-positive ductal carcinoma by 240%.

Despite this research having been performed in 2008, the drug manufacturers left Zantac and other ranitidine products on the market for almost 12 more years.

Research also links a history of Zantac use to cases of breast cancer in men. This disease rarely strikes men. Consequently, men typically do not undergo regular breast cancer screening. Talk to your doctor if you took ranitidine and have concerns regarding Zantac-related male breast cancer.

Zantac and Bladder Cancer Risk: Does Zantac Cause Bladder Cancer?

For several years, researchers strongly suspected that a link between ranitidine use and bladder cancer existed. New studies have now demonstrated just how significant that risk might be.

People who took the drug for three years or more faced a significantly higher risk of bladder cancer. However, even those who took Zantac for less than three years faced a 22% higher risk than people who never took the drug. Those who used it for three years or more have a 43% higher risk of developing bladder cancer.

When detected early, bladder cancer treatment has a high rate of success. Learning the symptoms of bladder cancer—which include painful urination and blood in the urine—can help you better monitor your health. Talk to your doctor about what types of cancer screenings might be appropriate for you if you previously used Zantac or ranitidine drugs.

Zantac and Uterine Cancer Risk: Does Zantac Cause Uterine Cancer?

Uterine cancer, specifically endometrial cancer, already poses a significant risk for women in the U.S. Every year, almost 70,000 women receive a uterine cancer diagnosis. More than 12,000 American women die of uterine cancer every year. Even worse, experts estimate that the rate of uterine cancer cases is increasing by about 1% per year. This cancer is especially troubling, as it presents virtually no symptoms in the early stages.

Although only observational human studies are possible today due to ethical reasons, multiple animal studies have drawn clear ties between NDMA exposure and uterine cancer.

Women should undergo annual screening for uterine cancer. If you used Zantac or a ranitidine product, talk to your healthcare provider about whether you should undergo more frequent screenings or take other measures to monitor your health.

Zantac and Prostate Cancer Risk: Does Zantac Cause Prostate Cancer?

Research has clearly linked exposure to NDMA with an increased risk of prostate cancer and mortality from prostate cancer. A 2008 study indicated that regular exposure to NDMA increased the risk of death due to prostate cancer by 140%. In that study, weekly exposure to NDMA resulted in cases of prostate cancer in five out of 15 participants. The study also noted excessive cell growth, with or without cancer, in 13 of the 15 study participants.

Some cases of prostate cancer grow particularly slowly, making it difficult to detect in the early stages. Some early symptoms of prostate cancer include painful urination and erectile dysfunction. If you took Zantac in the past, talk to a urologist regarding prostate cancer screenings.

Zantac and Liver Cancer Risk: Does Zantac Cause Liver Cancer?

Although existing research explored exposure to NDMA through meat products, drinking water, and other sources, the results are clear. Any exposure can lead to an increased risk of liver cancer. A study from 2006 clearly stated that, just as related products in tobacco cause lung cancer, NDMA causes liver cancer.

More recent research quantified this risk and specifically linked several types of cancer to ranitidine use. A study from January of 2021 concluded that ongoing ranitidine use increased the risk of liver cancer by 264%.

Some of the most common symptoms of liver cancer include swelling and pain in the abdomen. If you formerly took Zantac, talk to your doctor about the best approach for getting screened for liver cancer.

Zantac and Gastric Cancer Risk: Does Zantac Cause Gastric Cancer?

Cancer anywhere in the gastric tract can be devastating. Unfortunately, the use of Zantac and other products containing ranitidine is linked with a significant increase in gastric cancer risk. Recent studies report that the risk of developing cancer from Zantac directly affects every facet of the human gastric system. This includes a 924% increase in pharyngeal cancer risk, a 356% increase in esophageal cancer risk, and a 148% increase in stomach cancer risk.

The symptoms of gastric cancer vary greatly, depending on which portion of the gastrointestinal tract is affected. Consult a qualified medical professional regarding the screenings you need and the steps you can take to help mitigate your risk.

Zantac and Colorectal Cancer Risk: Does Zantac Cause Colon Cancer?

Along with other portions of the gastric tract, your risk for developing colorectal cancer increases if you previously took Zantac. In fact, one study reported that ranitidine users face a 1631% increase in colorectal cancer risk. Many other studies, including non-human research, have drawn a clear link between Zantac and rectal cancer.

Most Americans are encouraged to begin colon cancer screening around age 50. However, if you used Zantac or another form of ranitidine drug, consult with your doctor about screening frequency. Catching colon cancer early provides the best hope of successful treatment.

Zantac and Infant Testicular Cancer Risk: Does Zantac Cause Fetal Cancer?

Ranitidine has been linked to incidents of testicular cancer in infants. Experts believe that the babies were exposed to NDMA in utero, when their pregnant mothers used Zantac to control heartburn. Although the risk of fetal cancer related to ranitidine is not yet fully understood, several cases have been reported.

Typically, testicular tumors in infants are benign. However, those infant tumors tied to NDMA exposure are frequently cancerous. Unless treated immediately, cancer can metastasize and spread to other parts of the baby’s body.

Symptoms of this type of cancer include testicular swelling or a lump (potentially without pain) and pain or ache in the groin or testicles.

Zantac and Other Types of Cancer

Over the years, research has linked exposure to NDMA with a variety of cancers. Unfortunately, because the FDA has banned all ranitidine drugs—and because these substances pose significant health risks—researchers have limited opportunity for conducting studies.

Besides cancer, you may develop other health problems related to NDMA exposure. Some of the most commonly reported non-cancerous illnesses include Crohn’s disease, liver disease, and pulmonary hypertension.

Because Zantac cancer symptoms can take many forms, it is important that you speak to a qualified medical professional as soon as possible if you even suspect you might have a problem.

A Brief History of the Zantac Recall

In 1981, GlaxoSmithKline (formerly Glaxo) first introduced Zantac. At that time, patients need a doctor’s prescription to obtain the medication. By the late 1980s, Zantac was the most commonly prescribed drug in the world.

Once the product became available over the counter, millions of people began using the product to treat conditions related to excess stomach acid (heartburn). Medical professionals also used ranitidine products frequently to treat patients with stomach ulcers.

After more than 40 years on the market, research indicating a link between Zantac and various types of cancers began to emerge. In 2019, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that independent lab testing had demonstrated that ranitidine products contained the cancer-causing chemical NDMA. This prompted drug manufacturers to begin voluntary recalls. In early 2020, the FDA finally ordered a recall of all Zantac products.

Many drugs eventually prove to be harmful. When pharmaceutical companies take quick action to protect the public, they uphold their duty to protect the public. In the case of ranitidine products, however, the manufacturers may have known the risks of Zantac cancer for almost 30 years and never informed the public of those risks.

Manufacturers, including Sanofi, GlaxoSmithKline, Pfizer, Boehringer Ingelheim, and Chattem must be held accountable for the harm they caused by continuing to profit from products they knew could cause significant harm.

Contact a Zantac Lawsuit Lawyer

When Should You Consider a Zantac Lawsuit?

If you took ranitidine products and have concerns about your future health, talk to your doctor. You can also join in a class-action suit. A Zantac class action lawsuit attorney can explain your options and help you make the best choice for you and your future.

If you or a loved one received a cancer diagnosis after taking ranitidine—or if you suffered any other adverse health effects—you may have grounds to pursue an individual lawsuit. Talk to a Zantac lawsuit attorney as soon as possible. You need economic resources to help pay for your medical treatment. You also need compensation for your lost income and other damages.

How a Zantac Cancer Attorney Can Help

Holding the drug companies accountable for their negligence and failure to warn is important. It sends a strong message that multinational pharmaceutical companies cannot place profits over the well-being of people who use their products.

The experienced dangerous drug lawyers of Gerling Law fight to get our clients the justice and financial compensation they deserve. We have recovered more than $500 million in settlements, verdicts, and awards for our clients. These results might not reflect the outcome of your case. However, we have helped thousands of wrongfully injured people get the justice they deserve.

You could be entitled to recover compensation for your injuries, lost income, pain and suffering, and more. If you lost a loved one due to Zantac-related cancer, we can assist you in the pursuit of a wrongful death claim.

You could be entitled to compensation for the victim’s funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, loss of emotional support and guidance, emotional trauma, and more. Getting a settlement or award for wrongful death won’t undo the damage that was done.

However, rest assured that a victory sends a strong message to the drug companies. The economic relief that comes with a settlement or jury award can help you get through this challenging time and provide financial stability for your future.

Contact a Zantac Lawsuit Attorney Today for Help

Pursuing a Zantac lawsuit is a complex and time-consuming process. Act as quickly as possible to contact an experienced attorney who understands this complex area of the law. The dangerous drug lawyers of Gerling Law assist clients from across the country.

The statute of limitations of your state will also affect your case. Because these laws can vary, you might be running out of time to submit a claim or file a lawsuit. To ensure you get the information you need about this significant health risk, we offer a free consultation and case review.

If you trust our personal injury attorneys to handle your claim, we will be there for you every step of the way. At Gerling Law Injury Attorneys, we handle everything, so you can rest and focus on your health.

Call us at (888) 437-5464 or contact us as soon as possible to learn more about the cancer risks related to ranitidine and how our Zantac cancer attorneys can help. Remember,