Four different types of Zantac medication have been recalled following concern in several countries that they may contain an ingredient that has been linked to cancer.
The four types being recalled are: Zantac 150mg/10ml Syrup, Zantac 50mg/2ml injection, Zantac 150mg tablets and Zantac 300mg tablets.
Dr Andrew Gray from the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) said: “Whilst the action is precautionary, the MHRA takes patients’ safety very seriously. We have asked companies to quarantine batches of potentially affected medicines whilst we investigate and we will take action as necessary, including product recalls where appropriate.”
The medication is said to contain N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), which presents potential cancer risk.
Despite this however, health professionals urge patients to see their doctor before stopping any medication.
NDMA is a substance that could cause cancer on the basis of several animal studies. It is not expected to cause harm unless it is taken in large amounts.
The types of Zantac recalled are produced by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK).
Certain types of Zantac that you can buy over the counter at pharmacies are produced by a different company, and are therefore not a risk.
There is currently no evidence that the medicines containing this impurity have caused harm to the patients, according to experts.
“We have requested risk assessments from the relevant companies which will include the testing of potentailly affected batches,” said Gray.
