“The drug Zantac can elevate the risk of a person developing cancer. The active ingredient, ranitidine, contains a contaminant called NDMA, which is a probable human carcinogen.”
That stark warning was issued by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) when it requested to remove Zantac from the market in 2020. Unfortunately, the risk of developing cancer remains for users of the drug. You need to understand the potential Zantac cancer symptoms to make an informed decision about your next move.
What Is Zantac?
The scientific name for Zantac is ranitidine. It is a type of medication known as H2Ras and is used by people who suffer from stomach ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), duodenal ulcers, and erosive esophagitis. A simple way to look at Zantac is that it helps relieve heartburn.
The FDA requested the removal of the drug because some of the products were found to have contained N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA). This contaminant is classified as a probable human carcinogen, which is a substance that comes in many forms and is known to cause cancer. As with any type of carcinogen, there have been concerns about how potent NDMA might be. Based on a Cancers journal study published by the National Library of Medicine, the removal of Zantac off the market was justified.
Warning Signs of Potential Zantac Cancers
Even though Pfizer, the manufacturer of Zantac, pulled it off the shelves and changed the formula, doing so did not absolve them of responsibility for those harmed by its previous formulation.
If you or a loved one took Zantac and has since developed cancer, you might want to discuss the situation with the Thomas Law Offices. We have been looking into the connection between Zantac and cancer. Based on our findings, we are helping clients pursue compensation.
Before pursuing legal action, you need to understand the potential symptoms and types of cancers associated with Zantac usage. Consider the following:
Stomach Cancer
Stomach cancer is an aggressive and life-threatening disease. Some of the symptoms of this ailment might be mistaken for other illnesses. That is why you need to see a medical professional if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Chronic stomach pain
- Recurring vomiting and nausea
- Rapid weight loss
- Fatigue
- Stool with signs of blood
Liver Cancer
Liver cancer is similar to stomach cancer in that it is hard to detect without a proper diagnosis. In addition to Zantac use, there are other risk factors, including infection with hepatitis B, cirrhosis, and alcohol abuse. In the late stages of liver cancer, you might experience the following:
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Itching
- Easy bruising
- Chronic abdomen pain
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
Colorectal Cancer
The American Cancer Society estimates that there are 106,590 new cases of colon cancer and 46,220 new cases of rectal cancer so far in 2024. You need to take into account the risk factors associated with colorectal cancer, such as the patient’s age, medical history, and lifestyle factors such as smoking and weight.
The following are common symptoms of colorectal cancer:
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Stomach pain
- Cramping
- Blood in stool
Esophageal Cancer
Every time you eat or drink, it passes down the esophagus and into your stomach. Esophageal cancer often starts in the cells lining the lower part of the passage. This type of cancer is more common in men and is usually found in patients over 55. Here are the symptoms to watch out for:
- Dysphagia or difficulty swallowing
- Unintended weight loss
- Recurring chest pain or pressure
- Chronic heartburn or indigestion
- Persistent hoarseness or cough
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is critical that you seek out a thorough diagnosis from a medical professional.
Options for Compensation
There have already been lawsuits filed against the makers of Zantac. Some of these lawsuits might become part of a more significant class action lawsuit. If this situation has impacted your family, you should contact the Thomas Law Offices to discuss the matter.
We can provide information about the ongoing litigation and what steps you might take to seek a remedy.
Call to set up a free evaluation today.
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