The USFDA has found that some ranitidine - acid-reducing and heartburn medicines, including those known by the brand name Zantac - contain low levels of an impurity that could cause cancer.
The nitrosamine impurity known as N-nitrosodimethylamine or NDMA has been classified as a probable human carcinogen based on lab tests.
MoH said, ‘We are carefully following the presence of the substances in ranitidine, commercially sold as Zantac. Ranitidine is often used to treat acidity and stomach ulcers. In its warning, USFDA said that it is examining the levels of NDMA in ranitidine and evaluating any possible risk to patients.’
The ministry confirmed that it has taken the necessary measures with all competent authorities in Oman and the GCC to ensure that this substance NDMA is not present in any medicine that is marketed in the country.
According to USFDA, NDMA is a known environmental contaminant and found in water and foods, including meats, dairy products, and vegetables. ‘Although NDMA may cause harm in large amounts, the levels the FDA is finding in ranitidine from preliminary tests barely exceed amounts you might expect to find in common foods.’
© Apex Press and Publishing Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).
