Lawsuits Regarding Zantac Causing Cancer

Zantac is a widely recognized medication used to treat heartburn. However, evidence has surfaced indicating the presence of NDMA, a substance closely linked to cancer, within the drug. The existence of this carcinogen makes Zantac potentially dangerous for general patients, as it may be contaminated with N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA). Consequently, if you or a family member have been taking Zantac for an extended period and are now facing a diagnosis of cancer or other severe health complications, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit to claim damages.

At Youngstown Criminal Law Group, located in Mahoning County, Ohio, Youngstown criminal lawyers have provided legal representation for numerous patients who are now suffering from health issues due to regular Zantac usage. If you are seeking an experienced attorney, reach out to us today.

Critical Facts About the Zantac Lawsuit

Zantac, also known by its generic name ranitidine, is a common medicine for heartburn available both by prescription and over the counter. On September 13, 2019, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported the discovery of NDMA, a carcinogenic contaminant, in Zantac.

In April 2020, the FDA issued a formal announcement regarding the recall of Zantac. They stated that this medicine, used by millions of Americans for heartburn and widely available, should be removed from the market immediately. This drastic measure was taken because the drug can be contaminated with the carcinogen NDMA, which is closely associated with cancer. While our group is known for having a skilled Youngstown criminal lawyer, we are also deeply committed to helping victims of defective drugs in Ohio seek justice.

The first Zantac lawsuit was filed in California in 2019. The plaintiff brought the suit against drug manufacturers Sanofi and Boehringer Ingelheim, alleging that they manufactured, distributed, marketed, and sold the product despite knowing it might be contaminated with an industrial chemical capable of causing cancer.

An ongoing investigation aims to determine how the contamination occurred. During the time leading up to this, Boehringer Ingelheim and Sanofi allegedly manufactured and marketed Zantac without disclosing the link between Zantac and NDMA. Various scientific studies claim that when Zantac (ranitidine) comes into contact with water, a chemical reaction occurs that leads to the formation of NDMA. Even with this knowledge, the companies allegedly chose to keep the government and consumers in the dark while marketing the medicine. This negligence is the basis for the filed lawsuits. Our legal team, which includes a diligent Youngstown DUI attorney, understands how to navigate complex litigation and liability issues.

Injuries and Side Effects Linked to Zantac and NDMA

As a carcinogen, NDMA is capable of causing cancer. However, it is also a potent hepatotoxin that can pose risks to your liver, kidneys, and lungs through both short-term and long-term exposure.

If you or a loved one has been exposed to NDMA, you might experience symptoms such as fever, headaches, nausea, jaundice, abdominal cramps, vomiting, an enlarged liver, reduced function of the liver, lungs, or kidneys, and dizziness. Much like a Youngstown criminal lawyer scrutinizes evidence in a defense case, we meticulously examine medical records to link these symptoms to the drug.

The side effects closely associated with Zantac include:

• Arrhythmia or tachycardia (irregular heart rate)
• Disorders of the nervous system
• Vitamin B12 deficiency
• Jaundice, hepatitis, or liver failure
• Pneumonia
• Low platelet counts in the blood
• Skin rashes and hair loss

What Is NDMA?

NDMA is typically utilized as an industrial lubricant or as fuel for aviation and rockets. Its other primary application is inducing carcinogenesis in laboratory rats for cancer research. It is classified as extremely hazardous under the federal Emergency Planning and Community Right to Know Act of 1986.

Damages Recoverable in a Zantac Lawsuit

If you contact the Youngstown Criminal Law Group, we can assist you in pursuing the following damage claims. Whether you usually require a Youngstown DUI attorney for traffic matters or a personal injury lawyer for drug litigation, our goal is to secure the compensation you deserve:

• Past and future expenses for medication and treatment resulting from the injuries
• Past and future pain, suffering, and an excruciating recovery process
• Wage loss
• Lost earning capacity
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Punitive damages

Come to our law group and discuss your case with our team for the most rightful justice. Call us at 412.387.6901 today for free consultation.