Update on ‘withdrawal’ of ranitidine

[Buffafly]

Following Sam’s post yesterday I did a bit of investigation and found that in October 2019 batches were withdrawn because it was discovered that they had been contaminated with a carcinogen during the manufacturing process. So ranitidine manufactured by some pharmaceutical companies has been withdrawn while the problem is being investigated. This has led to a shortage of ranitidine 150mg according to my pharmacist. Ranitidine is not in itself carcinogenic but the contaminant, MDMA, can be.

You can find further info on Gov.uk website if concerned. I found I had a batch of tablets made by one of the listed manufacturers but I’ve taken most of them already! I was concerned as my GP was continuing to prescribe it and my pharmacy to supply it.

As stated before it is important to continue taking your prescribed medication as stopping would have worse adverse effects than taking it so consult your GP if you need/want to make a change. Also Gaviscon, which has been suggested, is not compatible with beta blockers and other medications and conditions and should not be taken regularly without doctor’s advice.

Off to inspect my wormery 🙄

[rothwell]

The USA withdrew Ranitidine (Zantac in U S A) on 1st April following a lawsuit filed in October last year. This is because of certain cancers occurring in some users. If you type Zantac lawsuit in your search engine you will find the information. Perhaps the UK is following suite.

[momist]

My pharmacist actually recommended me to be taking Gaviscon, but only the regular peppermint flavour single layer white ones, not the 'Double Action' pink and white layered ones. He was aware of my use of Bisoprolol and Apixaban. I stopped taking them when I was prescribed Ranitidine full time, 150mg twice a day.