Heartburn sufferers account for nearly 60 million Americans. It is an uncomfortable condition but it is also very treatable using over-the-counter medications and in some cases prescription drugs. There are several different heartburn medications available and for most taking medication should not lead to worsening conditions.
One particular drug however is under fire because of its cancer-causing effects. No one should become susceptible to cancer simply for trying to treat their heartburn. Drug manufacturers should be held liable for their negligence and our Philadelphia product liability attorneys are set out to do just that.
Ranitidine and Cancer
An independent study from Valisure found that one pill of ranitidine contains an excess of 300,000 nanograms or NDMA. The acceptable amount of NDMA is 96 nanograms per tablet. These numbers are shocking, to say the least. The FDA did take steps in 2020 to remove the drug and its variants from shelves. They found that the risk was too high for consumers.
The reason that NDMA is so worrisome is that it can potentially cause cancer. If exposure is long and in high amounts, this can speed up the process of cancer and other potential health concerns. various agencies are torn on the level of toxicity. Some agencies found that it should be considered a probable human carcinogen while others say it should be considered a human carcinogen. Regardless of the labeling, Zantac is dangerous and you should contact a Philadelphia product liability attorney if you have been injured as a result of this medication.
Types of Cancers Caused by Zantac
Due to the high levels of NDMA found in Zantac and ranitidine, there are various types of cancers that these medications can be linked to. Some of these cancers include:
- Colorectal cancer
- Stomach cancer
- Intestinal cancers
- Bladder cancer
- Esophageal cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Breast cancer
- Throat cancer
- Liver cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
There are other forms of cancer that have also been linked to cancer caused by NDMA but are not as common. These cancers are:
- Leukemia
- Brain cancer
- Multiple myeloma
- Kidney cancer
- Thyroid cancer
- Islet cell tumors
Regardless of the form of cancer, you may have if it was caused by Zantac you may be entitled to financial compensation with the assistance of a Philadelphia product liability lawyer.
Symptoms of Cancer Caused by Zantac
If you have taken Zantac and are experiencing the following symptoms this may be a sign that you are showing early signs of cancer. Looking out for these symptoms can be life-saving. These symptoms include but are not limited to the following:
- Poor appetite
- Unintentional weight loss
- Nausea or vomiting
- Light-colored or greasy stools
- Change in bowel habits
- Back pain
- Abdominal pain
- Amenia
- Dark urine
- Painful urination
- Itchy skin
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
- Blood in the urine
- Incontinence
If you experience any of the symptoms it is imperative that you seek medical attention immediately.
Contact a Philadelphia Product Liability Attorney
Have you suffered side effects from taking Zantac? If so, it’s time to contact a Philadelphia personal injury attorney from Kwartler Manus by calling us at 267-214-8608, or by completing our online contact form.