A carcinogen is a substance capable of causing cancer.
Six Recalled Drugs That May Have Increased Your Cancer Risk
In July 2018, several forms of valsartan (a heartburn drug) were recalled. Test results revealed a cancer-causing material in the drug, triggering the recall. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) began investigating the situation. That investigation eventually expanded to include multiple drugs used by millions of Americans.
The FDA investigation uncovered several flaws in the supply chain for popular drugs. These flaws allowed the introduction of carcinogens (NDMA and NDEA) to at least six popular medications. In one case, the drug's active ingredient could break down over time, releasing NDMA.
At this time, it is unclear how long these drugs may have carried undeclared carcinogens. This problem may have existed for many years before it was discovered. As such, consumers who took these drugs may want to discuss their cancer risk with a physician. We've compiled the list below to make such conversations easier. The list includes all drugs known to be affected by unsafe levels of NDMA or NDEA.
1: Irbesartan
Drug Indication: Irbesartan belongs to a class of drugs called angiotensin II blockers (ARBs). It is used for the treatment of certain types of high blood pressure.
Brand Names: Avapro
Generic: Irbesartan
First Irbesartan Recall: 2018
Current Status: At least 45 individual lots of irbesartan have been recalled since 2018. Consumers can determine which lots have been recalled here. Lots not included on the recall list may still be available for purchase.
2: Losartan
Drug Indication: Losartan is an ARB, like irbesartan. It is also used to treat various forms of high blood pressure.
Brand Names: Cozaar
Generic: Losartan
First Losartan Recall: 2018
Current Status: Nearly 500 lots of losartan have been recalled since 2018. Consumers can determine which lots have been recalled here. Lots not included on the recall list may still be available for purchase.
3: Metformin
Drug Indication: Metformin is used to help control blood sugar in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Brand Names: Glucophage, Fortamet, Glumetza, Riomet
Generic: Metformin
First Metformin Recall: 2020
Current Status: More than 250 lots of metformin have been recalled since last year. Consumers can determine which lots have been recalled here. Lots not included on the recall list may still be available for purchase.
4: Nizatidine
Drug Indication: Nizatidine is used for the treatment of acid-reflux and related disorders.
Brand Names: Axid
Generic: Nizatidine
First Nizatidine Recall: 2020
Current Status: Less than 10 lots of nizatidine have been recalled at this time. Consumers can determine which lots have been recalled here. Lots not included on the recall list may still be available for purchase.
5: Valsartan
Drug Indication: Valsartan is another ARB, like irbesartan and losartan. Valsartan is also used for the treatment of certain forms of high blood pressure and heart failure.
Brand Names: Diovan
Generic: Valsartan
First Valsartan Recall: 2018
Current Status: More than 600 lots of valsartan have been recalled since 2018. Consumers can determine which lots have been recalled here. Lots not included on the recall list may still be available for purchase.
6: Zantac
Drug Indication: Zantac is used for the treatment of heartburn and related gastrointestinal issues.
Brand Names: Zantac
Generic: Ranitidine
First Zantac Recall: 2019
Current Status: Zantac was removed from the U.S. market in April 2020. It is not available for purchase at this time.
Legal Proceedings Related to These Drugs
Many consumers and legal experts believe manufacturers may be liable for injuries related to these drugs. Hundreds of lawsuits have been filed against Zantac manufacturers. Consumers are also suing valsartan manufacturers. Plaintiffs claim the NDMA/NDEA-contaminated drugs caused users to develop cancer.
If you or a loved one developed cancer after taking Zantac or valsartan, you should consider taking legal action. You can request a free, no obligation legal consultation by clicking the appropriate link below: