Unexplained pain behind the breastbone or in the throat.If you have any of the following signs or symptoms, contact your doctor immediately: Many people who have been taking Zantac and other ranitidine products may have an elevated risk of certain cancers such as: It is important to note that NDMA has been found to be carcinogenic in those who have long-term exposure and/or ingestion of the chemical. In fact, in many labs, NDMA is specifically used to induce tumors in rats for scientific studies. Numerous scientific studies have shown the potency of NDMA as a carcinogen in both animals and humans. They found that older ranitidine samples had more amounts of NDMA than newer samples – and the longer they were left alone, the more NDMA was found. According to their findings, ranitidine may be an inherently unstable drug that persistently metabolized into NDMA, even under normal conditions. As a result, the FDA stepped in to conduct their own investigation into the matter, issuing a voluntary recall of the product to remain cautious.Īfter months of investigation, the FDA concluded that Zantac and all ranitidine products must all be removed from the market. Zantac manufacturers pushed back, claiming that they had underwent rigorous testing that found ranitidine only metabolized under extreme pressure and temperatures.Īfter refining testing procedures, the third-party lab found that, in conditions simulating the temperature and pH of the human body, ranitidine indeed metabolized into NDMA. Further testing found that, under certain conditions, ranitidine had the possibility to metabolize into the carcinogen. Zantac initially came under scrutiny when a third-party lab analyzed over-the-counter versions of it and found higher-than-acceptable levels of NDMA. If you experience consistent side effects, notice a fast progression or any of those more dangerous side effects, you or your doctor can send a report to the FDA MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online or toll-free by phone at 1-800 332-1088. Zantac can cause the following side effects: In addition to heartburn, Zantac is also used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and is available in both prescription and over the counter versions. Zantac is a histamine-2 blocker that works by reducing the amount of acid a person’s stomach produces. NDMA is also an unintended byproduct of the chlorination of wastewater and drinking water at treatment plants that use chloramines for disinfection.It was formerly used in production of liquid rocket fuel, antioxidants, additives for lubricants and softeners for copolymers NDMA is not currently produced in pure form or commercially used in the United States, except for research purposes.
It is a member of N-nitrosamines, a family of potent carcinogens
The US Food and Drug Administration has called for a recall of all Zantac and related products on the U.S market over concerns that long-term use may significantly increase the risk of certain types of cancers.