Zantac Cancer Lawyer

October 4, 2021 | Attorney, Matthew Dolman

Zantac and Risk of Cancers

Anyone who suffers from heartburn knows the pain and discomfort that it can cause. Heartburn can appear out of nowhere and leave just as quickly. Heartburn by itself is rarely life-threatening, but it is often extremely uncomfortable, particularly if it becomes a chronic problem. Heartburn can even prevent sufferers from getting the sleep they need. Zantac and ranitidine work to prevent the symptoms of heartburn by reducing the amount of acid in a user's stomach, which can help to minimize the overall effects of heartburn. To get the most benefit, doctors usually recommend that patients take these drugs daily, and preferably at the same time each day. However, when prescribed a drug like Zantac, what you least expect is that it will cause more serious ailments unrelated to heartburn. Unfortunately, studies have shown that is the case with Zantac, which can cause cancer due to its high levels of NDMA. This makes a victim's life change drastically. A non-life-threatening health issue (heartburn) quickly becomes a serious and life-threatening medical concern (cancer). If this has happened to you or a loved one, the law may entitle you to compensation. To find out for sure, speak with a trusted Zantac cancer attorney as soon as possible. If you or a loved one has taken Zantac or any generic brand of ranitidine, you may qualify to seek compensation. To hold the drug manufacturer liable for your injuries and your suffering, speak with an experienced product liability lawyer today.

Zantac Cancer, Illnesses and Lawsuits

Zantac and other ranitidine-containing products have been found to contain a chemical impurity known as NDMA. NDMA is classified as a B2 carcinogen. What this means is:
  • NDMA has a high probability of being carcinogenic, meaning it can cause cancer.
  • There is sufficient evidence to suggest a causal relationship between NDMA and cancer, but that the evidence is not conclusive of alternative explanations.
The use of ranitidine-containing products, commonly referred to as Zantac, for treatment of ulcers, heartburn, acid indigestion, and other digestive issues was linked to negative health outcomes that can result in product liability lawsuits and are currently the subject of a class-action suit filed in Southern Florida. NDMA is quickly absorbed by the body and can enter your organs through the bloodstream within a matter of minutes, which explains the reason the health concerns related to this substance's cancer-causing potential are so widespread. What type of cancer could Zantac cause?

Liver Cancer

The liver is a football-sized organ that sits in the upper right portion of your abdomen. There are several types of liver cancer, including the more common type that is spread to the liver from other parts of the body, as well as those that begin in the cells within the organ itself. Some of the symptoms of liver cancer include:
  • Losing weight without trying.
  • Loss of appetite.
  • Upper abdominal pain.
  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Overall body weakness and fatigue.
  • Abdominal swelling.
  • Yellow discoloration of the skin or whites of the eyes.
  • White, chalky stools

Stomach or Colorectal Cancer

As explained by the American Cancer Society, cancer begins when cells begin growing out of control in one part of the body. These cancerous cells can then spread to other organs. Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is caused when the cell overgrowth begins in the stomach. This type of cancer generally forms over years. The five-year relative survival rate for this type of cancer is five years, meaning that when compared to people with similar types of cancer who were diagnosed at the same stage and the general population, 70 percent of individuals diagnosed with stomach cancer will still be alive five years after diagnosis. The stages of cancer are generally:
  • Stage 1: The cancer is localized to one organ in the body. This stage presents the best survival rate.
  • Stage 2: The cancer cells spread to other organs in the same region of the body where cancer started.
  • Stage 3: The cancer cells spread throughout the body.
Colorectal cancer starts in the colon or rectum. Most colorectal cancers start with a small growth in the colon or rectum known as a polyp. There are many different types of polyps and not all of them result in the formation of cancer. Those most likely to cause cancer include polyps that are larger than 1 cm, and several polyps occurring in the same general area simultaneously.

Breast Cancer

The Potential Link between Zantac and Breast Cancer - Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PAThe link between H2 blocker medications like ranitidine and breast cancer was established in a 2008 study. The study revealed that the drug increases the risk of ductal carcinoma by more than two-fold in both men and women. One of the first Zantac lawsuits  involved a Florida man who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013. At the time of the diagnosis, he had been using Zantac for about four years to treat regular heartburn. Ductal carcinoma is the most common type of breast cancer, accounting for around 20 percent of all new breast cancer cases. 180,000 women are diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma each year, and this condition can also affect men.

Bladder Cancer

Bladder cancer most often begins in the cells that line the inside of the bladder. Because most bladder cancers are detected and diagnosed early, this condition is considered highly treatable. The symptoms of bladder cancer include:
  • Blood in the urine, which may cause urine to appear bright red or cola-colored.
  • Frequent urination.
  • Painful urination.
  • Frequent backaches.
Because the function of the kidneys is to filter harmful chemicals from the bloodstream and move them to the bladder for elimination from the body, cancer-causing chemicals are a frequent suspect in the cause of this type of cancer. Bladder cancer occurs more frequently in men than it does in women.

Small Intestine Cancer

Cancer of the small intestine is a rare disease that occurs when cancer cells form in the tissues of the small intestine. This type of cancer generally presents with abdominal pain and unexplained weight loss. The small intestine is part of the body's digestive system, along with the esophagus, stomach, and large intestine. The digestive system works to remove and process nutrients from the foods we eat while also helping to pass waste material from the body. This type of cancer is generally diagnosed following an exam that includes:
  • A complete physical exam and medical history.
  • Blood chemistry studies that measure the level of certain substances in the body. An amount of these substances that is higher or lower than normal indicates the need to further consider a diagnosis of small intestine cancer.
  • Tests that study the liver function. Higher amounts of a certain substance in the liver can indicate a condition that results from small intestine cancer.
  • An endoscopy, which is a diagnostic test in which the organs and tissues are studied using an internal camera to look for abnormal areas.
  • A biopsy, which is another diagnostic test in which cells from the affected area are studied under a microscope to look for abnormalities.
The survival rate of small intestine cancer depends on several factors, including whether the cancer has spread to other organs, including the liver.

Esophageal Cancer

The esophagus is a long, hollow tube that runs from the throat to the stomach, helping to move food from the mouth to the stomach for digestion. Esophageal cancer generally begins with cancerous cells growing in the lining of the esophagus. More prevalent in men than women, this type of cancer can appear in any part of the esophagus and the risk—as with most types of cancers—is that the abnormal cells will spread through the blood or lymph system to other parts of the body. Signs and symptoms of esophageal cancer include:
  • Difficulty swallowing.
  • Weight loss without trying.
  • Chest pain, pressure, or burning.
  • Worsening indigestion or heartburn.
  • Coughing or hoarseness.
Those who have gastroesophageal reflux disease, known as GERD, are at higher risk of developing this type of cancer. GERD is one of the issues that Zantac was designed to treat.

Prostate Cancer

The prostate is a gland only found in males, and it is responsible for producing some of the fluid that is part of semen. Prostate cancer begins when the cells in the prostate gland begin to grow uncontrollably. The most common type of prostate cancer is adenocarcinoma. However, there are several other types of prostate cancer as well. Most prostate cancers grow very slowly, though some can grow and spread rapidly. The symptoms of prostate cancer include:
  • A painful or burning sensation during urination or ejaculation.
  • Sudden erectile dysfunction.
  • Blood in the urine or semen.
  • Frequent urination, particularly at night.
  • Difficulty stopping or starting urination.

Pancreatic Cancer

The pancreas is an organ located in the abdomen, in the lower part of the stomach. This organ is responsible for releasing enzymes that aid in digestion, as well as hormones that help to regulate blood sugar. The most common type of pancreatic cancer forms in the cells that line the ducts that carry digestive enzymes out of the pancreas. Pancreatic cancer often does not present with any discernible symptoms during the early stages, which is one of the main reasons why this cancer is not usually diagnosed while it is in a stage where treatment will be effective. Advanced pancreatic cancer shows symptoms such as:
  • Abdominal pain that radiates down the back.
  • Loss of appetite or unintended weight loss.
  • Yellowing of the skin or the whites of the eyes.
  • Light-colored stools.
  • Dark-colored urine.
  • Itchy skin.
  • A new diagnosis of diabetes, or pre-existing diabetes that becomes harder to control.
  • Blood clots.
  • Fatigue.

Ovarian Cancer

The female reproductive system contains two ovaries, located on each side of the uterus. The almond-sized ovaries produce eggs as well as the hormones estrogen and progesterone, which control the female reproductive cycle. Ovarian cancer is often undetected until after it has already spread to other organs in the abdomen. The symptoms of ovarian cancer include:
  • Abdominal bloating or swelling.
  • Quickly feeling full when eating.
  • Weight loss.
  • Discomfort in the pelvic area.
  • Changes in bowel habits, including constipation.
  • A frequent need to urinate.
As with many types of cancers, treatment can include surgery and chemotherapy.

Uterine Cancer

Also known as endometrial cancer, uterine cancer begins in the uterus, which is a hollow, pear-shaped organ responsible for fetal development. Uterine cancer is often detected early, as it presents with abnormal vaginal bleeding. Generally, if the cancer has not spread to other organs, removal of the uterus can cure endometrial cancer.

Throat Cancer

Throat cancer can appear in the throat (pharynx), voice box (larynx), or tonsils. This type of cancer often begins in the flat cells that line the throat. Symptoms of throat cancer can include:
  • A cough.
  • Changes in the voice, particularly hoarseness.
  • Ear pain.
  • Difficulty swallowing.
  • A lump or sore that doesn't heal.
  • A sore throat.
  • Weight loss.
Like esophageal cancer, the risk of developing throat cancer is increased among individuals with GERD.

Testicular Cancer

Testicular cancer occurs in the testes of men. The testes are located inside the scrotum and produce hormones and sperm needed for reproduction. While relatively rare when compared to other types of cancer, testicular cancer is actually the most common cancer to occur in American males between the ages of 15 to 35. This type of cancer is generally highly treatable, even if it has spread beyond the testicle. Symptoms include:
  • A lump or enlargement in either testicle.
  • A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum.
  • A dull ache in the abdomen or groin.
  • A sudden collection of fluid in the scrotum.
  • Pain or discomfort in the testicle or scrotum.
  • Enlargement of the breasts.
  • Back pain.

Thyroid Cancer

Thyroid Cancer caused by ZantacThe thyroid is an organ shaped like a small butterfly that is located in the lower front region of the neck. Not only does this organ control the metabolism, it also releases hormones that direct bodily functions, including how you use energy, produce heat, and consume oxygen. Thyroid cancer also seldom produces symptoms until it has progressed. Symptoms of thyroid cancer include:
  • Neck or throat pain.
  • A lump in the neck.
  • Vocal changes, such as hoarseness.
  • Cough.
Thyroid cancer generally responds well to treatment, even if it is more advanced when initially detected.

Other Ranitidine Cancers

Other cancers are potentially associated with ranitidine or Zantac use. If you were diagnosed with cancer and you used Zantac or other products containing ranitidine and would like more information about whether you qualify to participate in the Zantac lawsuits and receive compensation for expenses and impacts related to your illness, contact us as soon as possible.

Liver Damage

Perhaps the most well-understood bodily damage caused by NDMA occurs to the liver. According to a public health statement from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the substance NDMA is “very harmful to the liver of animals and humans.” Studies indicate that humans who have been intentionally poisoned on one or several occasions with unknown levels of NDMA in foods or beverages died of severe liver damage that was accompanied by internal bleeding. Likewise, animals who ate food, drank water, or breathed air that contained high levels of NDMA over days or several weeks also developed serious non-cancerous liver disease. In research, it was found that pregnant mice who were fed food containing NDMA gave birth to babies who were already dead at birth or died shortly after. The agency noted that it did not know if higher levels of NDMA exposure hurt pregnant women or their unborn children.

World Health Organization Investigation into Zantac Cancers

The International Agency for Cancer Research (IARC), a division of the World Health Organization (WHO), is often recognized as the world's best cancer research organization. Scientists from around the world investigate cancer causes and share data to uncover dangerous chemicals and substances that might cause harm to humans. The IARC has concluded that NDMA is likely carcinogenic to humans. In many animal tests, when exposed to NDMA, the animal subjects grew tumors in multiple organs. These studies also told us that it did not matter how the animals were exposed to NDMA—oral, inhalation, and injection all resulted in cancer production. Based on the IARC findings, other organizations and research institutions conducted their own studies and found similar results. No NDMA studies have been conducted on humans, and there will likely never be any. Part of a doctor's pledge is to do no harm, and deliberately exposing a human to NDMA would violate that oath. Regardless, we do not need unethical studies to tell us the results. All of these other studies have told us the same thing:
  • NDMA is carcinogenic in humans, even in small amounts.
  • Zantac and ranitidine produce alarming levels of NDMA.
  • The design of ranitidine itself might cause of NDMA exposure.
This last point is what makes this such a tragic case. Zantac might help with heartburn, but the nature of the drug makeup may actually cause cancer. This makes it not a side effect of the drug, but rather an outcome. From these studies and years of research, we know that regular exposure to NDMA, even in small doses, can prove harmful. As discussed above, NDMA exists naturally in foods, but the levels of exposure are within safe ranges. For example, there are nearly 14ng of NDMA in 3.5 ounces of milk. This is well below the maximum recommended exposure level of 96ng set by the FDA. Based on this information, it is not necessary to avoid all foods containing NDMA, but it is good to remain aware of any exposure to a carcinogenic that could cause you harm. Nevertheless, because of the extreme levels of exposure to NDMA from Zantac and other generic ranitidine drugs, you may have damaged cells in your body that could produce cancer. To find out the best path forward for you, do not delay in speaking with a skilled and knowledgeable product liability attorney. Your lawyer will have your best interests at heart and will work with you to find a solution that helps you recover both physically and financially. You do not have to go through this alone; contact Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA today.

NDMA Cancer Risks

In 2019, the FDA announced that it was formally investigating the risk of cancer associated with Zantac. This announcement came after reports of Zantac 150 containing NDMA at levels 3,000 times greater than the FDA's daily recommended intake. Almost immediately, the large manufacturers of Zantac, Sanofi, and Boehringer Ingelheim, were facing lawsuits. Furthermore, the FDA determined that the amount of NDMA in ranitidine could actually increase as the product sat on shelves. What this means is that the longer a bottle of Zantac sits on a store shelf, the higher the amount of NDMA contained within each pill in that bottle. More NDMA can lead to an increased risk of cancer. NDMA, once used to make rocket fuel, is now used only for research purposes, but that does not do anything for the victims who have already developed cancer. If you have taken Zantac or any generic brand of ranitidine, you need to discuss your options with your doctor immediately. There is no guarantee that you will or will not get cancer. However, we do know that the longer you take Zantac, the more exposed you are to NDMA, and the greater the likelihood that you will contract some form of cancer. To be clear, taking Zantac for a short time can still cause cancer, but the longer you take the drug, the more you increase your risk. That's why it is so important to speak with your doctor right away.

Zantac Cancer Studies

Multiple studies have shown the link that exists between NDMA and cancer. These studies are the primary reason why the FDA mandated that the drug come off store shelves in the United States. A Stanford study took urine samples from people who ingested ranitidine. The urine samples were taken both before and after the patients took the drug. The urine samples taken after the patient ingested ranitidine showed a 400-fold increase of NDMA in the patient's urine. While this is a shocking increase, the study also points out that this underestimates the actual level of NDMA exposure. Only a small fraction of NDMA would leave the body through urine, so this means that the actual exposure to the body is substantially more. As we have already learned, significant exposure to NDMA increases the risk of developing cancer. In 2011, the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition conducted one of the largest studies on NDMA and cancer. This study concluded that taking NDMA increases a patients' risk of gastrointestinal cancers. These are just a few of the many studies conducted on the link between NDMA and cancer. These studies have been going on for many years, showing the concern that medical professionals have with the drug's safety. Many other studies have reached the same conclusions. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer after taking Zantac or generic brands of ranitidine, you need to speak with a law firm experienced in handling these cases. You may ultimately receive compensation from the drug manufacturer, which could help you battle your medical condition and cover your expenses. Zantac claims are more than your everyday personal injury lawsuits. These are complex products liability claims that require the keen eye of an experienced products liability attorney. Working with the right lawyer can give you the confidence you need to focus completely on your physical well-being while your legal team works hard to maximize your compensation.

FDA Determination

In April 2020, the FDA prohibited the sale of all brands of ranitidine, including Zantac, in the United States. Based on the studies referenced above (and many others), the FDA determined the risk was too great to the public. Many manufacturers had already taken their brand of ranitidine off store shelves by the time the FDA laid down its mandate. Many large stores had also already stopped selling the medications. In fact, Walmart, CVS, Rite Aid, and many other national retailers voluntarily pulled ranitidine from their shelves before the FDA mandate. Despite these moves by the FDA and individual stores, Zantac and other generic ranitidine brands were still available through prescriptions and at other stores before the FDA's action. But with this April 2020 recall, the FDA made it clear that no more ranitidine products will be available in stores, whether for prescription or over-the-counter purchase. When filing a product liability lawsuit, there is often uncertainty, especially when relying on third-party studies. You likely expect Stanford and the WHO to provide accurate information, and they do. However, the FDA is the gold standard in the United States when it comes to food and drug safety. Now that the FDA has independently confirmed through its own testing that NDMA is alarmingly prevalent in ranitidine and that NDMA increases the risk of cancer, bringing a products liability claim is less difficult than before the FDA action. This is not to say that filing a claim is easy; product liability is a complex area of the law. If you're interested in filing a Zantac claim, you should consult a seasoned lawyer with experience in the field. The FDA's determination simply gives you one more leg to stand on when bringing your claim for damages against the negligent party. Now is the time to contact a knowledgeable product liability attorney. Your chosen attorney should have proven experience in drug manufacturer product liability claims. Because of the complexity of these claims, it is vital to the success of your case that you choose a legal team that has been down this road before. When you do, you can let go of the legal stress and worry about how you will pay your bills and instead focus on your health and well-being. After all, your health is most important. No amount of money will take away your suffering, but the compensation may provide you with the time and energy needed to focus on your recovery instead of worrying about how to pay for it.

Recalled Zantac Brands

Numerous ranitidine brands have removed their products from store shelves and homes. For an up-to-date list, you can view the FDA's recalls page. These brands removed their products in advance of the FDA's required recall:
  • American Health Packaging
  • Amneal Pharmaceuticals
  • Aurobindo Pharma USA
  • Apotex Corp
  • Appco Pharma
  • Denton Pharma
  • Reddy's Laboratories
  • GlaxoSmithKline
  • Glenmark Pharmaceuticals
  • Golden State Medical Supply
  • Lannett Company
  • Novitium Pharma
  • Perrigo Company
  • Precision Dose
  • Sandoz
  • Sanofi
If you or a loved one has taken any of these brand name drugs, or any other ranitidine drug, you could be at serious risk of developing cancer due to your exposure to NDMA. If this applies to you, speak with your doctor right away. Your doctor can help you identify a new medicine that can help with your heartburn and also help determine your risk of cancer. After you have spoken with your doctor, it's important to speak with a skilled product liability lawyer who can help you recover maximum compensation from the negligent party. You may have astronomical medical bills ahead, and you should not have to bear any of that responsibility. Holding the negligent party liable for your injuries and your suffering can help ease the financial pain you may face. To do that, you need to file a product liability claim with the help of an experienced lawyer.

Cancer Symptoms

The Potential Link between Zantac and Breast Cancer - Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PAThe key to detecting and successfully treating any cancer is recognizing symptoms. With early detection, you increase your chances of survival. Understanding what symptoms to look out for will provide you with some early warning signs that you may have developed cancer from taking Zantac. Common cancer symptoms include:
  • Sudden weight loss
  • Poor appetite
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Bloody stool
  • Constipation
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Sudden loss of balance
  • Abdominal pain not from heartburn
  • Yellowing skin
  • Blood in urine
  • Itchy skin
  • Sudden and unexplained back pain
If you or a loved one has experienced any of these cancer symptoms stemming from Zantac use, you need to speak with your doctor immediately. Your health could be at risk. The most important step is to make sure your body has not been contaminated by the NDMA found in Zantac. While there is currently no test to determine if you will get cancer, you can see your doctor for a full evaluation and determine if you currently have any signs or symptoms of cancer caused by taking Zantac.

Zantac Cancer FAQ

Common questions about Zantac and cancerAt this point, you may have serious questions about what comes next. You may wonder whether you took Zantac long enough to risk getting cancer. You may not know if your risk has increased. You may also be unsure of how you will pay all of the medical expenses you face. Even if you do not have cancer, which would obviously be wonderful news, tests can prove extremely costly, and your insurance may not cover them. To find out you don't have Zantac cancer, you could end up paying out of your own pocket. You shouldn't have to do that. By working with a product liability lawyer with experience suing drug manufacturers, you can try to collect damages against the at-fault party. By exposing you to excessive amounts of NDMA through Zantac, your increased risk of exposure means that you could recover financial compensation for your medical expenses and pain and suffering. Surely, no amount of money will erase everything you have been through or magically make everything better, but the money will allow you the opportunity to focus all of your effort and energy on your health and well-being. If you or a loved one has taken Zantac and now may have cancer, you need to speak with a product liability lawyer as soon as possible. Your ability to recover may depend on the lawyer you choose.

Does Zantac cause cancer?

This is a loaded question, but ultimately, it's the question everyone is trying to answer. Thus far, the evidence seems to suggest that Zantac does indeed cause cancer. Whether it's the FDA, the WHO, or the nation's leading universities, the resounding consensus is that NDMA is a cancer-causing chemical that is found at alarming rates in Zantac and generic ranitidine brands. However, this does not mean that Zantac itself was manufactured in a way that created contamination during the making of the pill. That is a fine legal distinction. The high levels of NDMA found in Zantac come from ranitidine, the key ingredient. This means the drug is defective by design. Remember, one reason for liability is negligent manufacturing or negligent design. The studies we have cited suggest that Zantac's design is defective because of its use of ranitidine.

Should I stop taking Zantac?

Yes, immediately. You should stop taking any drug that contains ranitidine. Upon issuance of the FDA mandate to stop selling and prescribing Zantac, your doctor's office should have contacted you to stop taking the drug and to schedule a visit as soon as possible. If you have not heard from your doctor, you should still stop taking Zantac immediately. You should also schedule an appointment with your doctor to discuss what other heartburn medication you may benefit from, so you can continue to ease that pain and discomfort. You also want to discuss what to do next to make sure that you do not have cancerous cells in your body after taking Zantac. Some people mistakenly believe that if they reduce their dosage of Zantac, that will be safe. Unfortunately, because of the extremely high levels of NDMA found in Zantac and ranitidine, no one should take any level of dosage of these medications.

Will I get Zantac cancer?

That is a question for you and your doctor to explore. However, we can tell you that based on the studies conducted, that taking even one Zantac pill increases a user's risk of getting cancer. This happens because of the NDMA in ranitidine and how it exposes your body to extremely high levels of contamination. There is no guaranteed formula to determine whether you will get cancer due to your use of Zantac. What we do know, however, is that taking Zantac increases your risk and means that you should take immediate action by speaking with your doctor as soon as possible.

Can I take a different heartburn drug?

Thankfully, modern medicine does not put all of its heartburn relief eggs in one basket. As a frequent sufferer of heartburn, you have the option to take other medications that have not shown any connection to cancer. These include:
  • Nexium
  • Pepcid
  • Prevacid
  • Prilosec
  • Tagamet
All of these drugs have been tested for NDMA, and none show any signs of contamination. This is good news for you, as some of these drugs are available over the counter. No matter what, you want to get advice and consultation from your doctor to make sure you are taking the right steps to reduce and potentially eliminate your heartburn without putting yourself at risk of cancer. You also must make sure that you are not suffering from Zantac cancer. Make sure you get tested and take the appropriate action to keep yourself healthy.

Who is liable?

This is a complex legal question that your lawsuit will attempt to answer. From the evidence we have so far, Zantac and generic ranitidine manufacturers may have known about the potential cancer risks dating back to the 1980s. Your chosen legal representative will try to make the case that the drug manufacturer knew of the risk, chose to ignore the risk, promoted the drug regardless of the risk, and that you took the drug to alleviate your heartburn—only to end up with cancer. This is a tragic scenario that could have been avoided had the drug manufacturer acted appropriately. That's why you should bring a claim. It's an opportunity to hold the at-fault party accountable for its mistakes and for your pain and suffering. If you retain Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA, we will attempt to establish that the drug company put profits over users' safety. To strengthen your case, we will try to prove:
  • The drug company did not adequately research the drug and its long-term consequences.
  • The drug company knew or should have known of the drug's risk of cancer.
  • The drug company failed to act after it became aware of the link between NDMA and cancer.
By making this case, we can help you maximize your ultimate compensation. That money will help pay for your physical recovery. You should not have to worry about your finances during this extremely challenging time in your life. Bringing a claim against the negligent party can take the stress and burden of mounting medical bills off your shoulders, allowing you the time necessary to focus on your health.

Have lawsuits already been filed?

Yes, many. To date, over 100 lawsuits have been brought against Zantac manufacturers, including Sanofi. The Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation has merged these cases under one United States District Court based in Miami, Florida. While the court has consolidated these cases, that does not prevent other lawsuits from coming forward, including yours. Furthermore, just because these cases have been consolidated in Florida, does not mean that you have to reside in Florida to bring a claim. This merger was done simply for judicial expediency. If you reside or have been harmed anywhere in the country, then you can bring a Zantac cancer lawsuit. We can help.

Do I qualify for a Zantac class action lawsuit?

Individuals who can prove that they purchased Zantac may qualify to join a class action lawsuit. By joining a class action, you do not have to prove that you have suffered harm. In other words, you do not have to prove that you have Zantac cancer. Joining a class action allows you to simply show that you purchased Zantac or a generic brand of ranitidine and that you were not warned about the risk of cancer. There is also power in numbers. Joining a class action speaks volumes simply by the number of victims in the class.

Will my case join a class action?

You don't necessarily have to join a class action to pursue justice. Ultimately, this is a calculated legal decision that will likely depend on the amount of damages that you or your family have suffered. If you or a loved one took Zantac and was subsequently diagnosed with cancer, you could file a personal injury claim against the manufacturer and/or store that sold you the drug. This path is best for victims who have unfortunately been diagnosed with cancer, as it allows for the largest amount in damages. By filing a personal injury claim, you can attempt to recover maximum compensation for your injuries and your suffering.

What damages may I collect?

This question largely depends on the details of your case. If you have joined a class action and have not suffered from cancer, you likely don't qualify to pursue significant compensation. If you bring a personal injury claim, however, you may receive more compensation. You can expect your lawyer to try to collect certain damages for you, including:
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Lost wages
  • Lost earning potential
  • Loss of companionship
  • Loss of life enjoyment
  • Present and future medical bills
  • Rehabilitation costs
Every moment of suffering could increase your potential financial recovery. That's why it is important to discuss your options with a trusted personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. You want to speak with a lawyer who has experience taking on big drug companies. At Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA, we have that experience.

Should I settle?

Settlement is always an option during the claims process. However, remember this extremely important point: the insurance or drug company offering you a settlement does not have your best interests at heart. Insurance companies are in the business of making money. If they pay out the full value of your claim, that cuts into their profits. When an insurance company offers you a quick settlement, you should treat it with caution. The insurance company knows you are suffering, knows you want to put this behind you, and hopes that you do not yet have legal representation. When you work with a knowledgeable Zantac cancer attorney, you can lean on his or her years of experience and guidance. Your lawyer may tell you that the amount the insurance company offers is too low. He or she will determine this by creating an accurate estimate of your total financial needs. Instead of simply calculating the medical bills you see sitting on your kitchen table, you need to also account for all of your future needs and more subjective damages. For example, you may face:
  • Extended hospital stays
  • Long periods of time out of work or an inability to return to your occupation
  • Multiple surgeries
  • Prescription drug costs
  • Multiple doctor visits
  • In-facility rehabilitation
  • In-home care
Each of these items comes with extreme financial burdens. Your family members may feel the burden to take on extra work to help cover the financial losses of you being out of work. That is not their burden to bear. What's more, if you sign a settlement offer, you will waive your right to bring any future claims against the insurance company. In practice, this means that months or years later, your settlement funds could run out, and if you still have medical expenses to cover, there is nothing you can do to seek additional compensation. That's why it is vital to the success of your recovery that you work with a trusted Zantac cancer lawyer. Your legal representative will have your best interests at heart and will work tirelessly to maximize your compensation.

Will my case go to trial?

We know that many people fear trial. Going to trial adds time to your recovery and can result in additional stress during an already stressful time. In many cases, we only take a case like yours to trial if the insurance company refuses to settle for a fair and reasonable amount. When this happens, sometimes the mere threat of a trial is enough to make the insurance company raise its settlement offer. No matter what, we want to be prepared for trial, just in case. While it is true that most personal injury and product liability claims settle out of court, there is still a possibility that your case will go to trial. That's why, when choosing the right lawyer for your Zantac cancer lawsuit, you should choose a legal team with drug company trial experience. At Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA, we will do everything we can to settle your case without going to trial, but if you have a lawyer at your side who has trial experience, that will help push the insurance company toward a faster and larger settlement. We also do not want to be surprised at trial, so we will begin preparing for trial right away, even as we work diligently and aggressively to settle your claim.

You Took Zantac. You Have Cancer. What's Next

Questions about Zantac-caused cancer Once you've realized that you may have been exposed to extremely high doses of NDMA through your Zantac pills, you may have questions and concerns about what happens next. There is a lot of information to digest and lots of decisions you have to make. The decisions become more complex if you have already been diagnosed with cancer. When you work with the right Zantac cancer lawyer, your best interests are of utmost importance. That's why you should not delay contacting a lawyer who can help you understand what comes next and answer all of your questions. Your health, well-being, and financial recovery are the most important items in your life right now. By passing off the financial challenges to your lawyer, you can focus on the other items, giving yourself the best chance of making a full recovery.

Understanding Your Rights

When you suffer injuries due to another party's negligent actions, you have a right to hold the at-fault party accountable for your suffering. How you hold them accountable, however, will vary based on your specific situation. In your Zantac cancer case, you will file a claim against the drug manufacturer for negligence. You will argue that based on numerous studies, the manufacturer knew or should have known that NDMA was present in Zantac, and that presence severely increased the chances of you getting cancer. Now that you have been exposed or have been diagnosed with cancer, your life is forever changed. Your legal remedy is to bring a personal injury claim and hold the manufacturer liable for your pain and suffering. To do that, you should use the knowledge and experience of a personal injury lawyer. You want a lawyer with experience taking on big drug companies, fighting them tooth and nail to hold them accountable for your injuries. Collecting compensation will not take away your pain, but it will give you the chance to focus on your recovery and not worry about paying your bills.

Bringing a Claim for Damages

The damages that you ultimately collect will depend on your specific situation. The more pain and suffering that you can show, the greater the potential recovery amount. You may collect damages for your medical bills as well as your physical pain and suffering. You may also collect for your lost wages and lost future income. The more time you miss from work, the more important seeking compensation for your lost income. Many victims fail to account for their future financial needs. While you see the medical bills sitting on your kitchen table, and those bills may already amount to a substantial sum, your future needs may vastly outweigh your current financial burden, particularly if you are early on in your treatment and your recovery process. Besides that, the longer your recovery takes, the more time you will spend out of work. When your income dries up, you face extra financial pressure. In fact, your family members may bear the brunt of this financial stress. They may feel the need to take on extra jobs or work extra hours to balance the loss of your income. This is not a burden that they should bear. Tragically, of all Americans who file bankruptcy each year, two-thirds do so because of medical bills. Don't let yourself become a statistic. The best way to counteract this is to work with a lawyer who has experience taking on drug companies and holding them accountable for the pain and suffering they cause. When you can count on your lawyer to handle your claim against the drug manufacturer that caused your cancer, you can let go of the stress and worry around your financial situation, and so can your family members. They can stay at your side and help you recover instead of working a second job to help pay your medical expenses. With the right legal team at your side, you have the potential to make a full recovery.

Five Steps to Maximize Your Recovery

You can play a part in your ability to recover compensation for your suffering. There are many things you can do to help increase your financial recovery. By taking the steps below into consideration, you will play an integral role in your ability to recover.
  1. Keep receipts. To prove that you have suffered damages from taking Zantac or other ranitidine pills, you must first show that you purchased those drugs. Keeping your receipts will show with certainty that you purchased these drugs.
  2. See your doctor. Even if you took Zantac for a short time, and even if you do not show any signs or symptoms of cancer, studies indicate that taking just one ranitidine pill is enough to increase your risk of cancer. Because of this, speak with your doctor about your medical condition. Your doctor can give you a complete evaluation and decide whether you need to undergo further testing. You also want to see your doctor regularly following the initial visit, as the cancer caused by Zantac may not show up immediately. In fact, it could take years for you to detect your cancer. Even before you're aware that you have cancer, it's already taking its toll on your health and body. That's why it is so important to get regular checkups. Early cancer detection is the best way to beat cancer.
  3. Keep medical records. Just like keeping receipts, retain copies of your medical records, starting with any prescriptions from your doctor. While Zantac is available over the counter, if your doctor prescribed Zantac, you want to have that information. You also want diagnosis records. If you have been diagnosed with Zantac cancer, having those records on hand will help prove that you suffered injuries at the hands of the drug manufacturer.
  4. Keep a journal. All of this started because you had heartburn. It's important to remember that you now face a life-threatening condition because of a non-life-threatening condition. That's part of what makes Zantac cancer so tragic, and that's also why keeping a journal can help establish your level of suffering. Keep notes about how you feel every day. Note what hurdles you face and how you overcome them (or fail to overcome them). Note your progress and your setbacks. Note what additional medication or procedures you've endured, and don't forget to keep track of your mental health. Discuss openly and truthfully how you feel, because your mental health is just as important as your physical health. By keeping these notes in a journal, you provide first-hand knowledge of your progress, or lack thereof, and give your chosen legal representation intimate insight into the suffering you face. Your journal may help to increase the amount of compensation you recover from the negligent party.
  5. Contact Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA. Remember that you do not have to face this alone. Your experienced legal team will work hard to help you maximize your compensation. We will aggressively fight to protect your rights by standing up to the big drug companies and their massive legal teams. We have done it before, and we can do it again.
Settling your case may seem like the best option, and it often is, but only after your lawyer has reviewed the settlement offer. You might think that you can collect more money without a lawyer, because you do not have to pay the lawyer. Unfortunately, that is a mistaken belief. Your best chance of collecting a fair amount is with an experienced lawyer at your side. The first offer you receive from the insurance company is almost always not its best offer. Remember that the insurance company is not looking out for your best interests. That's why you need a lawyer at your side who is aggressively fighting to protect your rights and maximize your compensation.

Why Choose Our Zantac Cancer Product Liability Law Firm?

Our firm is committed to helping you get through this challenging time in your life, which means taking on the burden of working through the legal process to help you pursue compensation. Our results speak for themselves. Over many years, we have had the privilege of working with many clients just like you. Whether they suffered debilitating injuries due to medical malpractice, car accidents, or drug manufacturer negligence, we have helped them successfully recover compensation. We know money does not take away our clients' pain and suffering. It does not undo the injuries that they have suffered. However, it does help to ease their worries, and that is often a great relief off their shoulders. When you have to worry about how you will pay your bills, it may prove difficult to focus on your physical well-being. By taking that away, you can put all of your effort and energy into your physical recovery, giving yourself the best chance of getting better and getting back to the life you love. That is our ultimate goal. We want to play a part in easing your suffering, removing the stress from your shoulders, and giving you every chance you deserve to get better. Dolman Law Group Team Photo

How Our Lawyers Can Help You

When you suffer from heartburn, you should expect that whatever prescription your doctor gives you or whatever medicine you take over the counter solves your pain and discomfort. You should have confidence that the medicine you take will not give you a worse ailment. Unfortunately, that's exactly what happened to people like you who took Zantac. If we can connect your cancer to Zantac or other ranitidine tablets, you may wind up successfully recovering compensation from the drug manufacturer for your injuries. You should not have to suffer through this tragic time in your life while the big drug companies get by unscathed. Hold them accountable for their actions and for their choices that have made you and so many others suffer unspeakable tragedies. Due to its very makeup, Zantac increases your risk of developing cancer, and that's not okay. That's not what we expect or hope for, but when it happens, victims like you deserve compensation for their suffering. At Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA, we specialize in holding these companies liable for their negligence and recovering damages for our injured clients. Our goal is to make sure that you succeed in your claim and maximize your compensation. Battling big multinational drug companies is not for the faint of heart, and not all law firms have the resources necessary to take on this type of complex legal case. You need a lawyer with experience battling these big drug companies and with the resources necessary to put up a fight. Your legal team should have connections to expert medical experts that can help prove your case. Simply saying you were harmed is not enough—you have to prove it, and one of the best ways to do that is to use expert medical witnesses. It is not an exaggeration to say that the lawyer you choose can make a difference in the outcome of your Zantac cancer claim. Choosing the right legal representation is of paramount importance. Make sure you get a lawyer with the right experience, but also a lawyer you trust to help you pursue justice. If you or a loved one has taken Zantac or any other generic brand of ranitidine, you may qualify for compensation. To find out for sure, speak with our trusted Zantac cancer lawyers today by calling (833) 606-DRUG [3784]. At Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA, our experienced team is ready to speak with you about your options and show you how we can help you recover compensation. We provide our clients with award-winning legal representation that has earned us a long history of successful cases and satisfied clients. Reach out today! The Dolman Law Group works with local counsel in any jurisdiction outside Florida for the purpose of filing lawsuits in jurisdictions wherein we are not licensed. Thus, we will follow each State's ethical rules to ensure a local attorney is involved.
Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA - Clearwater Office 800 North Belcher Road Clearwater, FL 33756 727-451-6900

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“AMAZING and understanding attorneys! Did great on my case and I highly recommend Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA for anyone that has been injured in an accident!" Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Koralis R. Jan 2020 Read more reviews on Google!

 

Matthew Dolman

Personal Injury Lawyer

This article was written and reviewed by Matthew Dolman. Matt has been a practicing civil trial, personal injury, products liability, and mass tort lawyer since 2004. He has successfully fought for more than 11,000 injured clients and acted as lead counsel in more than 1,000 lawsuits. Always on the cutting edge of personal injury law, Matt is actively engaged in complex legal matters, including Suboxone, AFFF, and Ozempic lawsuits.  Matt is a lifetime member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum for resolving individual cases in excess of $1 million and $2 million, respectively. He has also been selected by his colleagues as a Florida Superlawyer and as a member of Florida’s Legal Elite on multiple occasions. Further, Matt has been quoted in the media numerous times and is a sought-after speaker on a variety of legal issues and topics.

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