Zantac, once a popular heartburn drug, is now at the center of thousands of lawsuits in the U.S. because of its possible link to cancer. The issue began when tests found a dangerous chemical called NDMA (a likely cancer-causing substance) in Zantac’s main ingredient, ranitidine.
Big Settlement Reached
As of October 9, 2024, drugmaker GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) has agreed to a $2.2 billion settlement to resolve around 93% of the pending Zantac lawsuits in the United States. This deal covers nearly 80,000 cases involving people who claim Zantac caused their cancer.
Cancers Named in the Zantac Lawsuits
People taking legal action say Zantac caused different types of cancer, including:
- Bladder cancer
- Breast cancer
- Esophageal (throat) cancer
- Kidney cancer
- Liver cancer
- Lung cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Stomach (gastric) cancer
Recent Updates in Zantac Lawsuits (as of October 2024)
- Oct 9: GSK confirms a $2.2 billion deal to settle the majority of U.S. Zantac claims.
- Oct 8: A new trial begins in California. The plaintiff has bladder cancer. The defense blames other causes like secondhand smoke, not Zantac.
- Oct 7: An appeal in Delaware questions expert testimony used in earlier Zantac trials. The ruling could affect future cases.
- Sept 27: First California Zantac trial begins, with jury selection starting in Alameda County.
- Sept 24: A mistrial in an Illinois Zantac case shows how tough these lawsuits can be.
- Sept 18: GSK settles two California cases but still denies any wrongdoing.
- Aug 27: A Delaware court will hear appeals from drugmakers trying to dismiss several cancer claims.
- Aug 26: A Connecticut judge says combined lawsuits can move forward.
- Aug 19: A Florida judge rejects expert testimony for the plaintiffs, making it harder to win in that state.
What Is Zantac and Why Is It a Problem?
Zantac was launched in 1981 by GSK and was widely used to treat heartburn and ulcers. But in 2019, the FDA discovered that NDMA could form in Zantac over time or when stored at high temperatures.
This led to:
- Major recalls in 2019
- Zantac being pulled from shelves in 2020
- Growing health concerns and lawsuits
Can You File a Claim?
If you or someone you know:
- Took Zantac or ranitidine products, and
- Was later diagnosed with cancer
You may be able to file a legal claim to get compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain.
Mass Torts vs. Class Actions – What’s the Difference?
| Mass Tort | Class Action |
| Each person has their own case | One person represents the whole group |
| Compensation is based on your injury | All members get the same amount |
| Great for different types of cancer | Better for similar, shared claims |
What’s Next?
The Zantac lawsuits are still unfolding, and more trials and settlements are expected. If you believe Zantac may have caused your health problems, it’s important to:
✅ Stay informed
✅ Speak with a legal expert
✅ Act quickly, as legal deadlines may apply
