Millions of people across the country suffer from chronic heartburn. Of these, thousands took Zantac as a way to control the acid levels in their stomachs. The active ingredient in Zantac, known as ranitidine, works as an effective element to decrease the amount of acid the stomach produces.
Unfortunately, we now know that it is also a carcinogen. On September 13, 2019, the FDA issued a safety advisory about the risks involved with ingesting ranitidine. This advisory stated that ranitidine contains chemical impurities that are a known human carcinogen. In simple terms, taking ranitidine increases a person’s chances of getting cancer.
Individuals who experienced health issues after consuming Zantac or its generic form, ranitidine, may qualify to file a Zantac lawsuit. These lawsuits aim to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and the endured pain and suffering. The best attorney for a Zantac lawsuit can assess your situation to determine if you have a valid claim for compensation.
The Discovery of NDMA in Zantac
A concerning discovery was made when Zantac was found to contain elevated levels of NDMA, a known carcinogen linked to various cancer types. Valisure laboratory’s detection of NDMA in ranitidine prompted the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to issue a recall for all ranitidine products in the United States, including both over-the-counter and prescription formulations.
While NDMA is present in the environment, its concentration is typically minimal. The FDA has established a safe daily intake limit of 96 nanograms per day. However, Valisure’s testing revealed a staggering 3,000,000 nanograms of NDMA in a single ranitidine tablet. Such high levels pose significant health risks.
Pfizer’s Settlement for Zantac Lawsuits
Pharmaceutical giant Pfizer has agreed to settle over 10,000 lawsuits related to cancer risks associated with Zantac, its discontinued heartburn drug. The settlement amount is estimated to reach up to $250 million.
Since facing litigation in February 2020, Pfizer has been working towards resolving these claims. The settlement, valued between $200 million and $250 million, aims to mitigate Pfizer’s potential liability.
Zantac was widely used to treat peptic ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux. It was available in various forms, including oral tablets and injections. However, the discovery of NDMA in 2019 led to its recall in multiple countries.
How Do I Know if Zantac Caused My Cancer?
Millions of Americans suffer from chronic heartburn, and many turn to Zantac for relief. The active ingredient, ranitidine, effectively reduced stomach acid production.
Unfortunately, ranitidine has been identified as a carcinogen. The FDA issued a safety advisory in September 2019, warning about the risks associated with ranitidine consumption due to its chemical impurities.
What Are My Legal Options After Receiving a Cancer Diagnosis?
Drug manufacturers have a legal responsibility to produce safe products. While side effects are common, the FDA approval process requires disclosure of these risks and a determination of the benefit-to-risk ratio.
Given the established link between Zantac and cancer, the drug’s manufacturers, including Sanofi, may be held liable for compensating individuals who developed cancer after using their product.
What Does It Mean to Pursue a Lawsuit Over an Unsafe Drug?
Lawsuits arising from unsafe drug use seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life. Establishing a direct connection between the cancer diagnosis and Zantac consumption is often challenging and may require expert testimony.
Timely legal action is crucial. Statutes of limitations vary by state, but generally, individuals have a limited period to file a lawsuit. Consulting with the best attorney for a Zantac lawsuit from People For Law can help protect your rights and initiate the legal process.
We Can Help You Navigate the Legal Process
Our firm specializes in dangerous drug lawsuits and can assist in finding qualified experts to support your case. We also understand the importance of timely action, as Florida law typically grants a four-year window for filing such claims.
Learn More About Your Legal Rights After a Zantac Cancer Diagnosis
The widespread use of Zantac and its generic equivalents for heartburn and acid reflux treatment has been overshadowed by the FDA’s recommendation to discontinue their use due to cancer risks.
Identifying whether Zantac caused a specific cancer diagnosis is essential for pursuing potential legal action. Drug manufacturers have a duty to produce safe products, and failure to meet this standard may result in liability.
Seeking legal counsel from the experienced best attorneys for a Zantac lawsuit specializing in pharmaceutical litigation is crucial for individuals diagnosed with cancer after using Zantac. A thorough evaluation of your case will determine eligibility for compensation and guide you through the legal process.
Count on People For Law
At People For Law, we are committed to helping individuals who have been diagnosed with cancer after using Zantac. Our legal team can assess your case and guide you through the process of seeking the compensation you deserve. We are experts in Mass tort claims and more than capable of assisting you. People For Law has 30 years of success helping clients overcome the consequences of personal injuries. In fact, our firm has the experience and resources to take on pharmaceutical companies when dangerous medications have caused injuries. Contact our firm today to discuss your legal options for holding Zanatac manufacturers accountable.