In September 2019, online pharmacy Valisure discovered that batches of Zantac, a popular heartburn medication, contained dangerous levels of a probable human carcinogen. After investigating these claims, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a recall for the drug—and many former Zantac patients are filing lawsuits to recover compensatory damages.
If you developed cancer after taking this drug, speak to a New Jersey Zantac lawyer at Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC. We represent Zantac cancer patients in every state, including New Jersey, in their claims against the drug’s manufacturers.
How Our Law Office Handles Zantac Cases
- For over 20 years, our firm has represented thousands of clients nationwide in their mass tort litigation cases against large entities, including dangerous drug manufacturers.
- We have secured millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts on behalf of our clients. Our Zantac lawyers will always advocate for your maximum recovery during each stage of your case.
- Our firm is responsive to our clients’ needs. We will always answer your questions and inform you of important updates in your case.
Can Zantac Use Cause Cancer?
N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) is a carcinogenic chemical that researchers use to induce tumors during clinical studies. In 2019, routine testing by Valisure detected unsafe levels of NDMA in batches of Zantac. The company reported its findings to the FDA, which launched an independent investigation.
In April 2020, the FDA issued a recall for all prescription and over-the-counter forms of Zantac and generic ranitidine. It discovered that dangerous NDMA impurities developed in the drug over time and when stored at higher than room temperature. However, some batches of Zantac developed the impurity even when stored properly.
How Do You Qualify for a Zantac Lawsuit?
You may qualify for a Zantac lawsuit if you developed one of the cancers associated with Zantac use after taking the medication for at least one year. You must have taken the name-brand Zantac, either by prescription or over the counter, on a regular basis. Finally, at least one year must have passed between the day you first started using Zantac and the day you received your cancer diagnosis.
Zantac may lead to many types of cancer, including but not limited to the following:
- Breast cancer
- Colon cancer
- Bladder cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Kidney cancer
If you or a loved one was diagnosed with cancer after regularly taking Zantac, speak with a New Jersey Zantac attorney as soon as possible to learn whether or not you have a case.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Zantac Lawsuits in New Jersey?
The statute of limitations is a rule that sets a time limit for filing certain lawsuits. In New Jersey, plaintiffs must file civil lawsuits within two years from the date the harm occurred. If you do not file by this deadline, the court will dismiss your case.
If you developed cancer after taking Zantac, however, you may not know about the cancer until years after you began using the medication. In these situations, the discovery rule will apply. You will have two years from the date you knew or should have known about the cancer—likely the date of your diagnosis.
How Much Is a Zantac Lawsuit Worth?
Cancer can have a major impact on your financial well-being, as well as your physical and emotional health. In a Zantac lawsuit, you can hold the drug’s manufacturers accountable for the economic and non-economic damages you endured due to your cancer, including the following.
- Past and future medical expenses
- Live-in care and disability accommodations
- Lost wages and loss of future earnings
- Emotional distress
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Chronic pain
- Permanent disability
Because Zantac settlements are specific to each plaintiff, your award amount may differ from other Zantac cancer victims. Speak to a New Jersey Zantac lawyer to calculate your estimated settlement value.
Schedule a Free Consultation With a Zantac Attorney in New Jersey
Are you a former Zantac patient who developed cancer? If so, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit against the medication’s manufacturers. The attorneys at Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC represent Zantac victims in their lawsuits nationwide, including New Jersey.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and discuss your legal options.