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On April 1, 2020, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) announced that it is requesting manufacturers to withdraw all over-the-counter and prescription drugs containing ranitidine from the market immediately. Ranitidine, known by the brand name Zantac, is widely used to treat heartburn.
Read the FDA press announcement on ranitidine here.
The FDA’s request for immediate removal is the latest step in an ongoing investigation into ranitidine drugs, which have been found to contain a contaminant known as N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA).
NDMA is a probable human carcinogen, and researchers have found that its presence in some ranitidine products can increase over time, and when stored at higher-than-average temperatures. The presence of rising NMDA in ranitidine drugs may result in an unacceptable level of consumer exposure.
The FDA is advising consumers to immediately discontinue use of ranitidine prescriptions and OTC medicines, dispose of any ranitidine medicines, and to use other alternatives. The FDA has not found NDMA in famotidine (Pepcid), cimetidine (Tagamet), esomeprazole (Nexium), lansoprazole (Prevacid) or omeprazole (Prilosec). In October, Walgreens, Walmart, and CVS removed Zantac from its stores.
Ranitidine / Zantac Lawsuits May Follow
While the FDA’s investigation is ongoing, potential lawsuits against Zantac manufacturer Sanofi are waiting in the wings. Domina Law Group is actively tracking the latest developments involving ranitidine and cancer risks, and is reviewing potential cases from victims and families across Nebraska.
If you or a loved one had a prescription for Zantac or a ranitidine product, or used Zantac / ranitidine OTC medicines, and were diagnosed with cancer – including bladder, kidney, stomach, and other forms – our team is available to discuss your case during a free consultation. Contact us to speak with a lawyer.