Orange County Zantac Cancer Lawsuit Attorneys
You may have heard of reports linking the drug Zantac (ranitidine) to cancer. Lawsuits filed against Zantac’s manufacturers allege that the drug contains dangerous levels of N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), a human carcinogen (cancer-causing substance).
An injury or wrongful death lawsuit against Zantac would hold the manufacturers accountable for allegedly failing to communicate such links with cancer. The affected parties may be entitled to financial compensation, which can help with medical costs, treatment outside of typical insurance coverage, and other issues.
Zantac cancer lawsuits allege that the product’s manufacturers knew of the NDMA risks and exposure issues, yet failed to alert the dangers to the public through proper warning labels or other similar means.
What is Zantac?
Zantac is a popular antacid medication that has been available since the 1980s. It belongs to a class of pharmaceutical drugs called “H2 blockers,” which work by decreasing the amount of acid the stomach produces.
People commonly use Zantac or generic versions (ranitidine) for:
- Acid reflux
- Heartburn
- Various stomach, throat, and gastrointestinal issues
If you have taken Zantac for any of these conditions and were diagnosed with cancer, you may need to pursue legal action for your injuries.
What Are the Links Between Zantac and Cancer?
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released an advisory notice discussing the presence of NDMA impurities in Zantac medications. The higher levels of NDMA exposure can increase the risk of cancer in humans.
Specifically, the FDA determined that the NDMA impurities in ranitidine products may increase over time and when stored at temperatures higher than room levels. This may result in consumer exposure to unacceptable levels of the cancer-causing impurity.
Newer FDA testing has also revealed that NDMA levels in Zantac can also increase even under normal storage conditions and temperatures. Evaluations show that the older the product (the longer the time since its manufacturing date), the higher the levels of NDMA. Such conditions then raise the NDMA levels above acceptable daily intake limitations, posing significant cancer risks for consumers.
The FDA has requested removal of all Zantac products from the market.
What Are Zantac Injuries and Side Effects?
Major institutions like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classify NDMA as a cancer-causing substance.
The NDMA found in Zantac has long been associated with primary cancers of the body, including:
- Colorectal cancer
- Esophageal cancer
- Liver cancer
- Small intestine cancer
- Stomach cancer
In addition to Zantac cancer risks, the drug can also cause other side effects, including nausea/vomiting, headaches, and abdominal issues. There are also many concerns regarding Zantac side effects in infants, as the drug is also prescribed to babies for conditions such as acid reflux.
If you or a loved one of yours were diagnosed with cancer after taking Zantac or ranitidine, you may be eligible to participate in a Zantac lawsuit. You may need to contact a lawyer for Zantac representation.
What Do Damages Cover in a Zantac Lawsuit?
Cancer is a serious medical condition that can be life-changing and, in many cases, fatal. If you or a loved one took Zantac or ranitidine and were later diagnosed with cancer, you could be entitled to legal damages.
A Zantac settlement or damages award could help with:
- Medical and hospital costs caused by your injuries
- Lost work wages, or loss of an ability to generate income in the future
- Pain and suffering (cancer treatments can sometimes be severe)
- Punitive damages
- Various other costs and losses
While monetary compensation can’t necessarily undo your injuries, it can help make your life easier and can help assist as you recover and undergo treatment. Under product liability laws, a damages award can often help you obtain treatment that you normally wouldn’t have access to otherwise (for instance, treatment methods insurance doesn’t cover).
Has Zantac Been Recalled?
In a news release dated April 1, 2020, the FDA requested removal of all Zantac (ranitidine) products from the market. This is the FDA’s latest step in an ongoing investigation regarding the contaminant NDMA in Zantac products.
Due to this immediate market withdrawal request, Zantac and ranitidine products will no longer be available for over-the-counter use or for new or existing prescriptions in the U.S.
Several companies have already withdrawn and recalled their ranitidine products and other NDMA-containing products from the market, including Amneal and Northwind Pharmaceuticals.
Get in Touch With a Zantac Lawyer at Hodes Milman
Besides a damages award, a Zantac class action lawsuit can bring about many changes and improvements. Legal action against pharmaceutical companies can help expose wrongdoing, improve safety standards, and help ensure such cases aren’t repeated. It’s in your best interest to contact a personal injury lawyer if you or a loved one were injured or harmed by Zantac products.
The attorneys at Hodes Milman work diligently on behalf of our clients to help them get the justice and case results they deserve. What sets us apart is that we are highly devoted to, and involved with, our clients. Each new case is given the attention it deserves, every time.
Many others have been affected by Zantac and are receiving assistance in their struggles. Contact us today at (949) 640-8222 and join the many others who are getting their lives back on track after a Zantac cancer diagnosis.
Zantac Lawsuit FAQs
How Can a Zantac Lawyer Help?
Cases involving defective drugs can be complex. There may be several requirements involving methods of proof, evidence, and legal theories that must be met.
A lawyer who is experienced in dealing with these specific types of injury cases can prepare a case strategy, organize evidence and statements, negotiate damage amounts, and review the applicable laws. This will help ensure a favorable outcome for the injured party.
Is There a Class Action Lawsuit Involving Zantac?
A class action lawsuit has been initiated against Zantac. Class action lawsuits consolidate the claims of many persons who were injured by the same cause, resulting in a more streamlined legal process. You will want to consult with a lawyer to determine whether participation in such a format is right for you, or whether you need to file your own individual case.
Who Actually Qualifies for the Zantac Lawsuit?
To participate in a Zantac lawsuit or a Zantac settlement, you will need to meet several requirements. It’s typically necessary to prove that:
You consumed Zantac or ranitidine
You suffered an injury due to the usage (for instance, a cancer diagnosis)
Your use of Zantac is connected with the cancer diagnosis
Such matters can be complex to prove, especially the connection between usage and cancer diagnosis. These will require the assistance of a qualified Zantac lawsuit lawyer.
Why Was Zantac Recalled?
As mentioned above, Zantac was recalled due to the presence of harmful NDMA contaminants that cause cancer.
However, in a broader sense, the purpose of any recall is to remove the products from circulation in the market, helping to prevent any further harm to consumers. As such, you should immediately stop taking any Zantac products you may still have.
Should I Return Any Zantac or Ranitidine Products I’ve Purchased?
Usually, defective drugs may be returned or taken to a drug “take-back” location. However, in light of the current COVID-19 pandemic situation, the FDA is recommending that consumers DO NOT take Zantac products back. Instead, they should follow the specific disposal instructions included with the medication or follow the FDA’s recommended steps for safely disposing of medicines at home.
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