In a recent announcement on Twitter, @FirstDoctor, a popular medical doctor, has raised concerns about the tablet known as Ranitidine. The doctor has advised the public to avoid using Ranitidine, which is sold under brand names such as Zantac, Rantac, Ranitab, and others.
According to the doctor’s tweet, Ranitidine has been banned in the USA due to concerns that it may cause cancer. The drug is said to contain a contaminant called NDMA (N-nitrosodimethylamine), which is a probable human carcinogen linked to colorectal cancer.
In light of these findings, India has also removed Ranitidine from its list of essential medicines due to the same reasons. The doctor urges for this information to be shared widely to raise awareness about the potential risks associated with the drug.
It is important for individuals who are currently taking Ranitidine or considering its use to consult with their healthcare providers to discuss alternative options and address any concerns they may have.
@FirstDoctor tweeted:
“BREAKING NEWS: Avoid the acidity tablet called Ranitidine which is sold as Zantac, Rantac, Ranitab, etc. It is already banned in the USA because of concerns that it causes cancer. Share widely !!!!
“This drug has been found to contain a contaminant called NDMA (N-nitrosodimethylamine), a probable human carcinogen implicated in colorectal cancer.
Ranitidine, also known as Zantac and other brand names, is a medication that is used to reduce the production of stomach acid. It is commonly prescribed for the treatment of peptic ulcer disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. This medication can be taken orally, injected into a muscle, or injected into a vein.
However, in September 2019, it was discovered that ranitidine products from various manufacturers contained a probable carcinogen called N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA). As a result, recalls were initiated.
Due to these concerns, ranitidine was withdrawn from the market in the United States in April 2020, and its use was suspended in the European Union and Australia. In 2022, a nationwide population study confirmed these concerns, showing that ranitidine increased the risk of liver, lung, gastric, and pancreatic cancer by 22%, 17%, 26%, and 35%, respectively. It was also found to increase the overall risk of cancer by 10%.