Any number of things such as stress, spicy foods and more can cause heartburn. Many people across the country and here in Ohio used to take medications containing ranitidine for this condition, which is the main ingredient in over-the-counter drugs such as Zantac. When the Zantac recall began, people were forced to find other options, and they continue to get smaller as options dwindle.
For instance, one medication that many people switched to is called famotidine. The OTC equivalent is called Pepcid AC. It is also available by prescription as Pepcid for heartburn, gastroesophageal reflux disease and stomach ulcers. This worked well for a while, but now the drug is showing signs of being in short supply.
Between people stockpiling famotidine and it being used in medical research, many companies are now reporting they are no longer able to keep up with demand as they did at one time. Heartburn sufferers will now have to search for other alternatives, all the while hoping that they do not run short or experience the same problems as ranitidine. It seems as though the situation changes from week to week.
While people here in Ohio and elsewhere continue to look for alternatives to treat their heartburn, the repercussions of the Zantac recall continue. More and more people are beginning to wonder whether their cancers are connected to the use of this and other drugs containing ranitidine. The fact is that it is a possibility that deserves consideration, but will not be an easy task. It would make sense to work with an attorney experienced in pharmaceutical litigation in the pursuit of restitution from all parties who may bear some legal liability for an individual’s condition.
