What Are the Long-Term Effects of Zantac?

On April 1, 2020, the  U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a news release calling for manufacturers to “withdraw all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) ranitidine drugs from the market immediately.” Ranitidine is the generic name for Zantac.

The FDA’s news release was based on an ongoing investigation which revealed that Zantac contained a contaminant which was a “probable human carcinogen.” Subsequent events have further demonstrated the link between Zantac and several different cancers.

Due to its potential to cause cancer, the long-term effects of Zantac can be severe. Tragically, many of the cancers that have been linked to Zantac can be fatal. For those who are forced to live with cancer for the rest of their lives or undergo invasive treatment, the financial and non-financial costs can be devastating.

What Types of Cancer Are Linked to Zantac?

Individuals who have taken Zantac may be at risk for developing several different types of cancer. This includes cancers affecting all parts of the body.

Some examples of the types of cancer linked to Zantac include:

• Bladder cancer
• Breast cancer
• Kidney/renal cancer
• Leukemia
• Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
• Pancreatic cancer
• Prostate cancer

Again, these are just examples. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with any form of cancer after taking Zantac at any time in the past several years, you should consult with an attorney about your family’s legal rights. Numerous cancer patients and families have already filed claims against Sanofi, Zantac’s manufacturer, and you may have a claim against Sanofi as well.

What Are the Long-Term Effects of Cancers Linked to Zantac?

The long-term effects of cancer linked to taking Zantac depend on the specific type of cancer with which an individual is diagnosed. While some types of cancer can be treated and managed, others can have life-altering or life-threatening consequences.

In non-fatal cases, individuals who are diagnosed with cancer after taking Zantac may experience long-term consequences including:

• Organ Damage – Various forms of cancer connected to the probable human carcinogen in Zantac can lead to organ damage, which may require surgery and/or long-term care.
• Organ Failure – If organ damage is not treated promptly or is not capable of being treated, this can lead to total organ failure.
• Chronic Pain – Chronic pain is a constant among most forms of Zantac-related cancer. Individual pain levels vary based upon the type and stage of cancer with which a person is diagnosed.
• Fatigue – Many individuals who are diagnosed with cancer also experience chronic fatigue as a result of the toll the disease takes on the body.
• Recurrence or Secondary Cancer – Individuals who are able to beat their cancer can face the risk of their cancer coming back. Some forms of cancer can present risks for secondary cancers as well.
• Complications from Chemotherapy or Radiation – Chemotherapy and radiation treatment can have various long-term effects, including hair loss, tooth loss, ulcers, anemia, constipation, diarrhea, hypothyroidism, and high risk of infection.
• Nerve Damage and Bone Loss – Neuropathy (nerve damage) and osteoporosis (bone loss) are common long-term effects of various types of cancers and/or their treatments.
• Endocrine Changes – Individuals who receive hormone therapy for prostate cancer or breast cancer can experience long-term side effects including reduced sex drive, decreased muscle mass, depression, weight gain, and memory loss.
• Incontinence – Individuals who are diagnosed with bladder, colorectal, or prostate cancer may experience permanent urinary or fecal incontinence.
• Infertility – In addition to the side effects listed above, chemotherapy and radiation treatment can also cause infertility in both women and men.

You may be entitled to compensation for economic and non-economic damages stemming from cancer diagnosis and treatment. Contact an attorney to discuss your Zantac claim options.

What Are Other Potential Long-Term Effects of Zantac?

In addition to developing different types of cancers, individuals who have taken Zantac may experience other long-term effects as well. For example, the medical conditions linked to Zantac consumption also include:

• Organ Damage (Not Cancer-Related) – Exposure to the contaminant found in Zantac (N-Nitrosodimethylamine, or NDMA) can cause damage to the organs in the digestive system. This damage is unrelated to cancer.
• Kidney Disease – Kidney disease is a long-term risk associated with Zantac consumption due to the damage and stress that can be caused by NDMA.
• Swollen Liver and Liver Disease – Some individuals have experienced swelling of the liver after taking Zantac. This swelling can lead to blockages and other problems. Liver disease has been identified as a long-term side effect of Zantac as well.

Multiple factors can impact your likelihood of suffering complications from taking Zantac, including how long you have taken the medication and the frequency with which you have taken it. You should see a doctor as soon as possible if you experience any health issues that may be related to use of Zantac.

Speak to an Attorney If You Suffered Adverse Effects After Taking Zantac

We have a right to expect that the medications we take will improve our lives, not make us sick. Unfortunately, consumers who have taken Zantac may be at risk for a number of serious complications.

Dreyer Boyajian LLP has extensive experience helping clients with dangerous drug claims. Please call (518) 463-7784 today for a free consultation to discuss your legal rights and options.