Wednesday, the FDA requested manufacturers to pull all ranitidine drugs, also known by the brand name Zantac.
The recall comes on the heels of an investigation that revealed ranitidine contains a carcinogen known as N-nitrosodimethylamine that multiplies over time when stored at higher than room temperature.
N-nitrosodimethylamine or NDMA has been a subject of FDA investigations since the summer of 2019. While the FDA admits the levels of NDMA in most samples of ranitidine were a reasonable level, there were too many abnormal levels in test subjects to keep the drug on shelves.
FDA Orders Disposal of Zantac
Letters have been sent out across the country to request manufacturers to withdraw all ranitidine from prescription and retail shelves. The FDA also recommends anyone prescribed ranitidine to stop taking it immediately and dispose of the medication properly.
The FDA also noted not to return any ranitidine to “drug take-back locations” in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. Follow the disposal instructions listed on your prescription bottle or the Zantac box.
Patients who suffer from heartburn should look to other FDA-approved medications while ranitidine is off the shelves. Some examples are famotidine or Pepcid, esomeprazole or Nexium, or omeprazole or Prilosec.
If your doctor’s office is closed due to the coronavirus pandemic, you can look to one of the previously mentioned over-the-counter options. If not, call your doctor for a prescription alternative.
We recommend that you SAVE THE PACKAGING, copy or take pictures of your packaging, remaining pills, receipts, and other information that will help us show that you took this medication.
Did Zantac Cause Your Cancer? Call Us Today
If you or a loved one has taken ranitidine or Zantac and been diagnosed with the following cancers:
- Stomach
- Intestine
- Colorectal
- Bladder
- Esophageal
- Liver
You may have a claim to damages, and Groth Law Firm is here to help. Our offices offer free virtual consultations and to discuss adverse drug events such as this, or call our office at 414-455-6981. We’re here to help you even if we can’t meet in person.