GlaxoSmithKline first developed Zantac in 1977 and it was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 1983. The Zantac patent expired in 1994, enabling approximately ten other pharmaceutical companies to begin selling its generic ingredient, Ranitidine. At the same time, both the brand name and generic versions of Zantac began over-the-counter sales at a wide variety of pharmacies.  

The FDA released its first warning regarding the potential connection between Zantac use and cancer on September 13, 2019. According to the FDA, “some products commonly known as the brand-name drug Zantac, contain a nitrosamine impurity called N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) at low levels. NDMA is classified as a probable human carcinogen…”. The FDA released several other warnings in the following months, culminating with a requested removal of all Zantac products from the market on April 1, 2020. 

N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) is molecule that is recognized as a “probable human carcinogen” by the Environmental Protection Agency, Food and Drug Administration, and International Agency for the Research of Cancer. NDMA is found in nature, but only in trace amounts. The recommended daily allowable limit of NDMA ingestion is 96 nanograms. Urine tests of individuals taking one 150 mg pill of Zantac, however, show levels of NDMA nearly 500 times this recommended limit. 

The cancer risk associated with Zantac use is closely related to the dose of Zantac you have been taking and the length of time you have been taking Zantac. Presently we are limiting our cases to individuals who have been taking Zantac on a daily basis for at least one year.

Chappell, Smith & Arden, PA is actively investigating numerous Zantac cases. We have the ability to order your medical and pharmaceutical records and analyze your health history to inform you whether you may have a good case. Call us at 803-929-3600 or contact us here for a free consultation about your potential Zantac case.