Zantac Side Effects

Contact a Zantac Lawyer If Taking Zantac Harmed You

If you once took the prescription drug Zantac for heartburn or acid reflux and developed cancer or another serious health issue or side effect, you may seek compensation for your damages.

While no longer available, millions of people took Zantac for years before the FDA pushed for its removal from the market in April 2020 – a move prompted by the discovery of a suspected cancer-causing agent in the drug.

If you or a loved one experienced serious illness after taking Zantac, you may be eligible to file a Zantac lawsuit.

Lawsuit Legal News is dedicated to providing you with all the information you need about Zantac to make informed decisions, including your legal options. Our team of Zantac lawyers understands Zantac’s long and complicated history, the risks associated with it, and the compensation that may be available to consumers who have been harmed by the drug.

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Zantac Side Effects: What You Need to Know

Once a trusted remedy for heartburn and acid reflux, Zantac has been linked to several forms of cancer and other serious health issues.

The prescription drug had been on the market for more than 35 years when researchers discovered that time and temperature altered its chemical makeup to produce N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), a byproduct classified as a probable human carcinogen.

NDMA formed in Zantac due to the instability of its active ingredient, ranitidine, especially when stored at high temperatures or over long periods. This discovery raised significant health concerns, leading to a series of recalls starting in 2019 and its withdrawal from the market the following year.

Here, we will look at some of the serious side effects associated with NDMA, including the different types of cancer associated with the toxic substance.

The Most Serious Side Effects: Zantac and Cancer

The most alarming revelation about Zantac is its potential to cause cancer. NDMA can build up in the body over time, potentially leading to the development of various cancers. Below are the cancers most commonly associated with Zantac use.

Bladder Cancer

Bladder cancer is one of the most frequently reported cancers among Zantac users. This type of cancer affects the bladder’s lining and can cause symptoms such as blood in the urine, frequent urination, and pelvic pain.

The link between Zantac and bladder cancer is particularly concerning due to prolonged exposure to NDMA, which can damage the cells in the urinary tract and lead to malignancy.

Stomach Cancer

NDMA exposure can cause damage to the stomach lining, leading to the growth of malignant tumors. Symptoms of stomach cancer include persistent indigestion, stomach pain, nausea, and unintentional weight loss. The risk of developing stomach cancer increases with long-term use of Zantac.

Liver Cancer

The liver plays a critical role in metabolizing NDMA, making it particularly vulnerable to cancer. Liver cancer linked to Zantac use can lead to symptoms such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), dark urine, severe fatigue, and abdominal swelling.

The rapid progression of liver cancer can make it challenging to treat effectively, making early detection critical.

Esophageal Cancer

Esophageal cancer affects the tube that connects the throat to the stomach. Symptoms of esophageal cancer can include difficulty swallowing, chest pain, persistent coughing, and unexplained weight loss.

The connection between acid reflux, a common condition treated with Zantac, and esophageal cancer further complicates this risk.

Throat Cancer

Throat cancer, which can affect the pharynx or larynx, is another cancer linked to Zantac. Symptoms can include a persistent sore throat, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, and unexplained weight loss.

Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer has also been linked to NDMA exposure from Zantac. This type of cancer often develops slowly over many years, with symptoms such as changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, and persistent abdominal discomfort.

The association between Zantac and colorectal cancer is particularly concerning for individuals who used the drug regularly over long periods.

Kidney Cancer

The kidneys filter toxins from the blood, including NDMA. Zantac users have reported an increased risk of kidney cancer, a condition that can cause symptoms such as blood in the urine, persistent back pain, and unexplained weight loss. Kidney cancer’s aggressive nature can make early detection and treatment vital.

Pancreatic Cancer

Though less common, pancreatic cancer is one of the most severe cancers associated with Zantac. The pancreas, which plays a key role in digestion and insulin production, can develop malignant tumors due to NDMA exposure.

Symptoms of pancreatic cancer include jaundice, weight loss, back pain, and diabetes. The prognosis for pancreatic cancer is often poor, making it one of the deadliest cancers linked to Zantac.

Prostate Cancer

Ongoing research suggests a possible link between Zantac use and prostate cancer. This type of cancer affects the prostate gland in men and can cause symptoms such as difficulty urinating, blood in the urine, and pelvic discomfort.

Breast Cancer

NDMA exposure may affect breast tissue, leading to the development of malignant tumors. Breast cancer symptoms include lumps in the breast, changes in breast shape or size, and nipple discharge. Women who used Zantac and developed breast cancer should consider the possibility of a connection.

Uterine and Ovarian Cancers

Zantac use has also been linked to cancers of the female reproductive system, including uterine and ovarian cancers. Symptoms can include abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, and bloating. These cancers are serious conditions that require prompt medical attention, especially for women who used Zantac over extended periods.

Testicular Cancer

Zantac may have put men at risk for testicular cancer. This cancer affects the testes and can cause symptoms such as a lump in the testicle and pain or discomfort in the groin area. The potential link between Zantac and testicular cancer should concern male users of the drug.

Thyroid Cancer

Thyroid cancer, which affects the thyroid gland in the neck, has also been reported in Zantac users. Symptoms include a lump in the neck, difficulty swallowing, and changes in voice. The connection between NDMA exposure and thyroid cancer is an area of ongoing research.

Small Intestine Cancer

Cancer of the small intestine is rare but has been linked to Zantac use. Symptoms include abdominal pain, weight loss, and nausea. The small intestine plays a vital role in digestion, and cancer in this area can cause severe digestive complications.

Other Side Effects of Zantac

In addition to cancer, Zantac has been linked to various other side effects. While these are generally less severe, they can still significantly damage a person's health and well-being.

These side effects include:

Gastrointestinal Distress

• Diarrhea
• Severe abdominal pain
• Liver inflammation (hepatitis)
• Pancreatitis
• Jaundice

Cardiovascular Issues

• Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath

Neurological and Psychological Effects

• Confusion
• Depression
• Hallucinations
• Agitation and restlessness

Hematological Effects

• Anemia
• Thrombocytopenia
• Leukopenia

Dermatological and Renal Effects

• Rash
• Hair loss
• Photosensitivity
• Kidney damage
• Acute kidney injury

Respiratory and Hormonal Effects

• Bronchospasm
• Pneumonitis
• Gynecomastia
• Galactorrhea

Were You Harmed by Side Effects? Call a Zantac Lawyer Today.

If you took Zantac and experienced any of the serious side effects associated with the drugs, contact Lawsuit Legal News. Our team of experienced Zantac lawyers will listen to your experience, evaluate your case, and explain your best legal options.

Request a consultation with a Zantac lawyer today. Call (866) 535-9515 or fill out our online contact form, and we will contact you. Consultations are for you and come without any obligation.