Recently, the pharmaceutical company Sanofi recalled it’s popular heartburn drug Zantac, because it was found to contain “unacceptable levels of cancer causing impurities”. If that sounds scary to you, it should. For a pharmaceutical company to willingly recall a drug that millions of consumers have taken over the course of many years, openly admitting that it poses a serious risk is quite scary. According to the company, the drug can cause a number of serious health concerns, including but not limited to cancers of all types (including ovarian cancer, liver cancer, and many others), and they’ve found the drug is one of many previously on the market that contain these “impurities”.
While Zantac has many different types of medications under their umbrella - everything from pills and tablets to syrups and more in various dosages - Sanofi is currently only recalling four specific products. These are a syrup, an injection-only version of the drug, as well as the 150mg and 300mg doses in tablet form, which are among the most popular versions of their medications.
The “impurities” cited appear to be a result of a faulty manufacturing process within the company, which is currently under investigation to determine the direct cause. In the meantime, pharmacies all over the United States, including Walgreens, CVS and others, are pulling Zantac products off of shelves. The drug’s “impurities” appear to be high levels of certain carcinogens, including NDMA which has been linked to many types of cancer including stomach cancer. This carcinogen can also cause other types of life-threatening health problems, including stomach and bladder problems, internal bleeding, and many others.
It is no wonder that lawsuits have immediately begun against the company, who put their patients at risk for many years. There are several ways in which consumers who worry they are at risk can assess if they have a claim and join with the class action lawsuits taking place against the company. If you feel that you’ve suffered illness or injury as a direct result of taking Zantac or similar problems, check into this and see if you have a claim, whether by visiting one of the many websites devoted to the subject, or simply by giving your lawyer a call. You may be entitled to a settlement.
If you’re experiencing serious medical problems, such as stomach pain, bleeding, or other issues that you feel may be related to Zantac, stop taking the medication immediately and call your healthcare provider. Doctors are recommending that patients cease taking Zantac ASAP to avoid further health compilations. There are other, safer products on the market to assist with heartburn, indigestion, acid reflux and other related health issues.
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