The chances of getting cancer from Zantac are not yet possible to name conclusively, as studies are still being conducted to test the link between Zantac and the development of cancer. However, the FDA has issued a recall of Zantac and warned that unsafe levels of N-Nitrosodimethylamine, a likely human carcinogen, may be found in ranitidine products such as Zantac.
If you or a loved one got cancer or experienced another health complication as a result of taking Zantac, you could file a lawsuit against the drug’s manufacturer. You could seek compensation for a variety of losses, including medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Understanding the Case Against Zantac
Zantac was considered one of the most effective, best-selling drugs on the market until very recently. Since 1983, people have used Zantac to relieve the symptoms of heartburn and gastrointestinal discomfort. At that time, Zantac was approved for short-term use.
However, the drug was recalled by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) in 2020, when FDA noted that the levels of NDMA found in Zantac could increase over time—and under especially warm storage conditions.
If you are interested in pursuing a case against the makers of Zantac, you need to prove that:
- You used the drug as intended, meaning that you followed the instructions on the label and did not alter the drug’s chemical composition.
- You or a loved one developed cancer or another health condition.
Sometimes, these types of cases can get complicated. In the case of Zantac, for example, the drug’s manufacturer may argue that their product did not result in your cancer diagnosis. They may argue that instead, you were genetically predisposed to the condition, or you developed it independently of taking Zantac.
This is where working with a lawyer can work to your benefit. They can gather the evidence needed to prove your claim and fight for the compensation you need.
The Types of Cancer Caused by Zantac
As you consider your legal options, you may wonder if your cancer diagnosis is the result of Zantac use.
According to information presented by Healthline, Zantac has been linked to the following types of cancer:
Gastric Cancer
This form of cancer affects the lining of the stomach. It can be caused by age, genetics, or dietary habits. However, it can also be caused by high levels of NDMA, which is present in Zantac.
Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer affects the colon and rectum. Again, this condition has been linked to high levels of NDMA. While the condition is treatable, it can create lifelong health complications.
Healthline also notes that Zantac can cause liver cancer. If you relied on Zantac in the past for heartburn relief, you should stop taking the medication immediately. Harvard Health Publishing notes that you may want to speak with your doctor about other alternatives to Zantac use.
Recoverable Damages in a Zantac Cancer Case
If you or a loved one developed cancer because of Zantac, you are likely incurring an array of losses—both financial and non-financial. A lawyer can not only help you recover compensation for these losses, but they can explain what forms of compensation you may be able to collect.
You may be entitled to pursue financial recovery for the following:
- Lost income
- Future loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Disability
- Medical bills
- Rehabilitative care
If you lost a loved one due to cancer, you could be eligible to seek compensation for their funeral, medical bills, and lost income.
How a Lawyer Could Help You
You could file a lawsuit against the makers of Zantac by yourself. However, there are many complexities involved with a case against a major corporation. When you have a lawyer handle your case, you do not need to worry about anything other than your health.
They can manage your case’s obligations by:
- Calculating the cost of your damages
- Proving that you or a loved one got cancer from Zantac
- Filing your lawsuit
- Negotiating for a settlement
- Gathering evidence to prove your case
- Consulting with medical professionals and other field experts
- Talking to the involved parties for you
- Representing your case in civil court
You may not have a long time to initiate legal action. You should consider how a lawyer could help you at your earliest convenience.
Call Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers Today
Since 1995, our team has been helping injured people seek compensation for their losses. When you partner with Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers, you will get to work directly with the firm’s partners, Jason and Debi Chalik. We also help people on a contingency-fee basis, meaning that you do not owe us payment for our services unless your case is resolved.
While the chances of getting cancer from Zantac may not yet be known, we believe that if you got sick as a result of taking the drug, you deserve to seek compensation. To start exploring your legal options, call (855) 529-0269.