FDA calls for immediate removal of Zantac from shelves

The FDA has announced its request today to immediately remove the heartburn drug Zantac and all over-the-counter ranitidine drugs from shelves. 

An ongoing investigation by the Food and Drug Administration determined that levels of n-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), a contaminant in the heartburn medication, increase over time, which poses a risk to the public health.

According to the announcement by the FDA, letters will be sent out to all manufacturers of drugs containing ranitidine, requesting that they remove these products from the market. The FDA is advising consumers to stop taking any ranitidine drugs they currently have, dispose of them properly, and do not buy more of the drug.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is also advising that consumers who wish to continue treating their condition should consider using other approved medications. To date, there has not been evidence that NDMA is found in other products like Pepcid, Nexium, or Prilosec.
 
For any patient currently taking prescription ranitidine, the FDA suggests talking to your doctor about other treatment options before stopping taking your medicine completely.

Large corporations like Walgreens, CVS Pharmacy, and Walmart announced in September that they would no longer sell Zantac and any other over-the-counter ranitidine medicines due to their concern that they might contain n-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA).

Contact a Product Liability Attorney

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with cancer as a result of Zantac or Ranitidine use. The product liability attorneys at Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys have the experience and skill to investigate and handle your case properly. If you believe that your cancer diagnosis is linked to the use of Ranitidine products, give us a call for a free and confidential consultation at 225.888.8888.