According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), low levels of a cancer-causing contaminant have been detected in a heartburn treatment medication called Zantac. The FDA is advising patients who take the over-the-counter versions of the medication to switch to a different medication. However, patients who take prescription versions of the drug should talk to their doctors before switching.
No recalls have been issued. Zantac is the brand name for ranitidine, and there are many generic versions of the drug available over-the-counter and in prescription form in supermarkets and pharmacies. The contaminant contained in the affected products is called N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA). It’s the same cancer-causing contaminant that was found in certain lots of the blood pressure medication Valsartan and its derivatives. Those medications were subject to mass recalls during the past year.
Both the contaminants found in Zantac and those found in multiple blood pressure medications have raised questions about the safety of drugs sold in America. Many medications, especially generic ones, are manufactured in China and other foreign countries where the FDA’s oversight is limited. Potential manufacturing flaws and defects may not be discovered for years, putting potentially millions of patients at risk of serious side effects and complications.
If you or someone you love suffered health problems, including cancer, after taking a tainted or contaminated medication, you may be eligible for compensation. At Ferrer Poirot Feller Daniel, our drug injury lawyers want to help you get the money you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.