Along with other people here in Ohio and elsewhere, if you have used over-the-counter acid reduction medications regularly, then you may currently have some questions regarding their use. Recently, the Food and Drug Administration began announcing recalls of these medications, particularly Zantac, due to the presence of an impurity that could cause cancer. That impurity associated with the ranitidine recall is called N-nitrosodimethylamine.
This chemical, called NDMA, was created in order to help in the manufacturing of rocket fuel. It caused such high levels of pollution in the water, soil and air around plants using it that it can no longer be used. In fact, it turns out to be a human carcinogen, which means it can cause cancer. The question then becomes what is it doing in Zantac and its generic counterpart ranitidine.
It could be some time before that question is answered. In the meantime, you may want to know that this medication, which contains much more of NDMA than the FDA allows, could cause a slew of cancers ranging from bladder cancer to liver cancer to esophageal cancer and more. You would think that all ranitidine-containing medications would be removed from the market due to this issue, but you will more than likely be disappointed. Many versions have been recalled, but not all.
The current confusion surrounding the ranitidine recall could lull you into a false sense of security. If your doctor diagnosed you with cancer after years of ranitidine use, there could be a link between the two. If so, then you may have legal options. Speaking with an Ohio product liability attorney could help you determine whether taking legal action would be appropriate in your situation.
