Heartburn Medicine Lawsuit in New York

Ranitidine (brand name Zantac) is the most widely litigated heartburn drug, after the FDA recalled it in 2020 due to NDMA contamination — a probable human carcinogen. Other H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like Prilosec, Nexium, and Prevacid have also faced litigation over links to kidney damage and other injuries. If you took any of these drugs long-term, you may have a claim.

Cancers linked to NDMA exposure — including bladder, stomach, colorectal, esophageal, liver, and kidney cancer — are the primary basis for Zantac lawsuits. PPI users have brought claims for chronic kidney disease, acute interstitial nephritis, and bone fractures. New York courts recognize product liability claims based on defective design, failure to warn, and manufacturing defects.

New York’s general personal injury statute of limitations is three years from the date of injury under CPLR §214. In toxic exposure cases, the clock may start from the date you discovered — or reasonably should have discovered — the link between the drug and your injury, known as the discovery rule. Because these timelines are complex and case-specific, you should speak with a NY attorney as soon as possible.

Begin by gathering your prescription records, pharmacy receipts, and medical records documenting your diagnosis. An attorney will evaluate whether your cancer or injury is among those linked to the drug you took, how long you used it, and whether you filed within New York’s limitations period. Many heartburn drug cases are handled on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless you recover.