Zantac is an extremely popular medication used to treat heartburn and other gastroesophageal issues. Unfortunately, recent studies have defined a link between cancer and the use of Zantac. These findings have led the FDA to recall the medication. Now, all patients who use Zantac are being urged to immediately stop taking the medicine and call their doctor for alternative options.
If you’ve taken Zantac for heartburn and have developed cancer as a result, you may be entitled to compensation. While you may be able to navigate the legal world of Zantac lawsuits on your own, you might consider partnering with an experienced Zantac settlement lawyer. These experts can help you get every penny you deserve.
How Does Zantac Cause Cancer?
Zantac contains a dangerous chemical compound known as NDMA or N-nitrosodimethylamine. This contaminant appears to be very dangerous for human consumption. In fact, NDMA is often used in laboratory studies to induce cancer in lab animal subjects. The researchers can reliably use the substance to produce cancer when they are studying the disease in these lab animals.
The generic version of Zantac is known as ranitidine. This generic is the specific substance that seems to be responsible for being contaminated with NDMA and, in turn, causing cancer in users. It should be said; these findings require further study. However, the evidence is growing stronger and stronger and continues to point toward the fact that Zantac and generic versions of the drug are causing cancer in those who use it. Unfortunately, you may be wondering what kinds of cancer does Zantac cause?
What Kinds of Cancer Can Zantac Cause?
While the research is ongoing, it appears that Zantac is now associated with all of the following cancers:
- Cancers of the Digestive System. Cancers associated with Zantac have been identified in the esophagus, stomach, intestines, colon, and rectum.
- Cancers of the Reproductive System. Cancers in reproductive organs such as the testicles in men as well as the ovaries and uterus in women have been associated with the use of Zantac.
- Smoker and Non-smoker Lung Cancer. Regardless of smoking history, Zantac use has been linked to lung cancer.
- Blood Cancers. Cancers such as leukemia have shown correlation with the use of Zantac medication.
- Other Cancers. Pancreatic cancer, kidney cancer, and other types of cancer have also been associated with the use of Zantac.
How to Qualify for a Zantac Settlement
Zantac cases are currently being grouped into what are known as “Multi-district Litigation” or MDL cases. These cases can be hard to navigate.
The best thing to do, if you believe your cancer came about as a result of taking Zantac, is to contact and experienced lawyer in the dangerous drug field. A Zantac settlement lawyer can make the whole process a breeze. They will ensure that you get all of the paperwork on time, obtain physician notes on your condition, and generally position yourself to get the most possible compensation for the cancer you have suffered as a result of taking an over-the-counter drug that you rightfully believed was safe.
