Many people in Ohio use the over-the-counter medication Zantac to relieve heartburn. However, research has shown a possible link to cancer, and the FDA has ordered recalls. Consumers have filed over 500 claims against the makers of Zantac saying that the makers knew of the risk and didn’t warn the public.
Dangerous chemical in Zantac
Zantac, also known as ranitidine, classifies as a histamine-2 blocker, which decreases acid in the stomach. While no definite evidence or risk value exists, studies have shown that the active ingredient NDMA, an environmental contaminant, causes cancer in animals. Ranitidine has been used to treat various conditions that cause heartburn such as gastroesophageal reflux disease, stomach ulcers and Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome.
The online pharmacy Valisure informed the FDA of the possible risk. Valisure found extremely high levels of NDMA in every lot tested in June 2019. The FDA sets the daily limit of NDMA at 96 nanograms, but there are concerns over trace amounts of NDMA causing cancer. The tests found almost 3 million nanograms or more per tablet, but the FDA concluded that the heating methods Valisure used may have increased the amount.
Known cancers and health risks caused by Zantac
Lawsuits claim that a variety of cancers and conditions developed in people with no prior risk or genetic history. Some cancers connected to NDMA include stomach, prostrate, esophagus, colorectal, liver, kidney, ovarian, breast and uterine cancer. It could also be linked to cancer in the small and large intestines, a rare disease.
Zantac may cause another bacteria connected to pneumonia in the upper respiratory tract and gastrointestinal tract because of the decreased stomach acid. Stomach acid helps defend the stomach against harmful bacteria. Some patients who take Zantac have been diagnosed with hypertension and Crohn’s disease, a digestive disorder.
Holding drug makers accountable
Drug makers owe a duty of care to consumers by warning the public of potentially dangerous drugs. Consumers who didn’t get warned about a Zantac recall have the right to file a claim.
