While research is not yet definitive on the subject, some studies show that the main ingredient in Zantac may cause bladder cancer. Namely, researchers have observed that the oral use of ranitidine can lead to heightened levels of the carcinogen in urine, according to the journal Carcinogenesis.
This carcinogen is called N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA). In one study, the rates of NDMA in urine matched or exceeded that of patients with a health condition known as schistosomiasis, a condition where NDMA is known to cause bladder cancer.
Even as researchers continue to study the exact link between Zantac use and certain types of cancer, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has issued statements warning of the possible carcinogenic effects of the drug. In these statements, the FDA requested a recall of Zantac at the manufacturer level.
Many lawsuits began as a result of these warnings from the FDA and other information that notes the potential dangers of Zantac. People who believe that Zantac caused their cancer, including bladder cancer, are now fighting for compensation from the makers of the drug.
Zantac Poses Many Health Risks
Since it was released to consumers in 1983, many people have taken Zantac to address health issues ranging from ulcers to heartburn. It was initially approved by the FDA for short-term use.
However, the FDA concluded a new series of investigations into the health risks of Zantac in April of 2020. They concluded that the carcinogen NDMA is present at high levels in some ranitidine products, such as Zantac. These levels of NDMA can increase over time and when exposed to high temperatures.
Some research has even shown that NDMA levels can be too high even under normal storage temperatures. The FDA recommends that those who have been taking Zantac to treat any health condition should first speak with their doctor before discontinuing use.
The link between Zantac and cancer is a cause of many lawsuits. Some court cases involve plaintiffs who believe that Zantac is responsible for causing their bladder cancer.
Seeking Compensation for Medical Costs and Wrongful Death
Those who took Zantac at any point in their medical history may have many concerns about their carcinogen exposure and risk for cancer. If you have been diagnosed with cancer or lost a loved one to cancer after they used Zantac, you may want to consider your legal options.
The Costs of Diagnosing and Treating Cancer Are High
In most cases, the time and costs involved in treating cancer are substantial. You may have had to undergo hospitalizations, chemotherapy, regular visits to your doctor, and more.
If you recovered from an initial diagnosis, you still may have faced a recurrence of cancer. This could have required more time, treatment, and expenses. Zantac may cause bladder cancer, and you may be able to seek financial recovery for the costs of treatment, your suffering, and other damages.
In the event that you lost wages because of an inability to work while receiving treatment, the makers of Zantac could be responsible for compensating you. You may also be able to claim pain and suffering-related losses, which can help compensate you for the emotional toll of your health condition and its effects on your life.
You Could Recover Damages if You Lost a Loved One
If your loved one passed away after a battle with cancer and their health condition could have been caused by Zantac, you may be able to bring a wrongful death case against the drug’s makers.
In such cases, you may be able to seek financial recovery for the medical costs that your loved one required before their passing, the costs of their funeral and burial, and the loss of their companionship in your life.
You Can Pursue a Lawsuit
To pursue a lawsuit against the makers of Zantac, you must be able to show that you were diagnosed with a health condition that could have been caused by Zantac.
Ideally, you would have medical records to show a diagnosis of some kind. This may be a cancer diagnosis or another health condition. Then, you must be able to show that your use of Zantac was the cause of your health condition and that you suffered financial losses.
While you may be able to represent yourself in such a case, a personal injury lawyer will be able to help you compile and present compelling evidence to make these important links between Zantac, your health conditions, and your losses.
They may use your medical records and expert testimony to demonstrate that Zantac was responsible for your diagnosis–and should therefore be responsible for covering the costs of your treatment, pain and suffering, and more.
Call Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers
When facing the legal team of a major drug company such as Zantac, you do not have to be alone. Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers takes pride in representing the victims of negligence.
When you work with Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers, you will work directly with one of our founding partners. We provide empathetic service to our clients and provide legal guidance like that we would give to our own family.
Keep in mind that there may be limited time to file a lawsuit based on the circumstances of your case. Call a team member today to learn more at (855) 529-0269.