Our Lawyers at Alonso Krangle, LLP, are Reviewing Zantac Lawsuits. If you developed Stomach cancer after taking this dangerous drug, you might be eligible to collect compensation for your injuries.
What is Zantac and Why Are Drug Stores Pulling Zantac from their Shelves?
Zantac is the brand name of the generic drug Ranitidine. This medication is used as an over-the counter-treatment for heartburn and indigestion. Doctors frequently prescribe Zantac in a stronger dose to prevent and treat stomach and esophageal ulcers as well as other conditions caused by the production of stomach acid. Millions of people in the United States and across the globe take Zantac in either is brand name or generic form.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced in September that it discovered unacceptable levels of NDMA in batches of ranitidine. NDMA is short for N-nitrosodimethylamine, an environmental contaminant. NDMA is found in our food and water supply in small amounts. It is known to cause stomach and other types of gastrointestinal cancers in animals. The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes that NDMA is probably carcinogenic to humans.
CVS and Walgreens are two of the large drugstore chains that joined many smaller ones in pulling all or some of Zantac and generic ranitidine products from shelves. Some manufacturers, such as Novartis, recalled generic ranitidine sold in the US.
Canadian and French organizations have taken steps to stop or reduce ranitidine products and Zantac being sold and distributed in their countries.
Why Are People Filing Lawsuits Against the Manufacturers of Zantac?
Individuals who have been taking Zantac regularly now find themselves worried that they have been exposed to a dangerous carcinogen. Some of these people have stomach cancer and must consider whether their use of Zantac contributed to or caused their illness.
The lawsuits allege that the makers of Zantac knew about the dangers of NDMA and failed to disclose or warn of the risks associated with taking the medication. People want accountability and compensation. Damages in Zantac lawsuits might include the money spent on Zantac as well as medical bills, and emotional distress that result from a diagnosis of stomach cancer.
If you have been taking Zantac or its generic version, you might be eligible to collect damages from the drug manufacturers. There may be a link between Zantac and stomach cancer. Our experienced lawyers can determine if you qualify to file a claim for compensation from the makers of Zantac.
What are the Symptoms of Stomach Cancer Caused by Zantac?
Stomach cancer usually occurs where the upper part of the stomach meets the esophageal tube. This part of the stomach is called the esophageal junction. This type of cancer is becoming much more common and is sometimes called gastroesophageal cancer. Symptoms of stomach cancer may include:
- Stomach pain
- Unintentional loss of weight
- Persistent Vomiting
- Extreme fatigue
- Persistent nausea
- Feeling full or bloated after eating small amounts
- Severe and persistent heartburn
- Severe and continuous indigestion
- Feeling bloated even when not eating
What Causes Stomach Cancer?
Like all cancers, stomach cancer is the result of cell mutations. The mutated cells keep growing and form tumors or break away and spread to other parts of the body. Mutations result from many things such as chemicals, toxins, or foods. Stomach cancer is often related to having a history of GERD- gastrointestinal reflux disease. GERD is characterized by the flow of acid from your stomach into the esophagus, where it does not belong. Eating a diet high in salt and smoked products are linked to stomach cancer, as well.
Obesity, smoking, and a poor diet increases your risk of developing stomach cancer.
How Do Doctors Treat Stomach Cancer?
How doctors treat stomach, or esophageal junction cancer depends on several factors, such as the stage of your disease and your general health. Your doctor may propose some or all of the following treatments:
- Surgery to remove the tumor or tumors
- Surgery to remove part of the stomach
- Surgery to remove the entire stomach
- Removal of near and/or distant lymph nodes
- Radiation
- Chemotherapy
- Immunotherapy with targeted drugs
- Palliative care to ease your transition to the end of life
Because of its location, treating stomach cancer can be extremely difficult for the patient. Chemotherapy causes nausea and vomiting, which, after abdominal surgery, can be dangerous. It is also hard to eat during treatment for stomach and esophageal junction cancer, and a feeding tube may become necessary to ensure you remain at a healthy weight.
FDA Found Toxin Linked to Stomach Cancer in Zantac
NDMA found in Zantac, and Generic ranitidine has been linked to cancer in animals. Lawsuits have been filed by people who have been taking Zantac for years. They are concerned that they have been unknowingly exposed to a dangerous carcinogen. Allegations are that the makers of the popular drug knew about the dangers and failed to warn them. Some people with stomach cancer blame their conditions directly on the use of Zantac.
Our Personal Injury Lawyers are Reviewing Zantac Claims Now
Call our personal injury lawyers at Alonso Krangle, LLP today for a free evaluation of your Zantac claim. We are reviewing cases of those who fear they were injured by Zantac and contaminated ranitidine. We can tell you if you are entitled to collect monetary damages from the makers of Zantac. If you are, we can help you obtain the maximum amount the laws allow.
Call Alonso Krangle, LLP today at 800-402-6191, to learn more about filing your Zantac lawsuit.