The Peru Gazette

We are writing to inform you that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recalled and removed from the market a common prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medication called ranitidine, commonly known by the brand name Zantac.

Ranitidine is a medication used to treat symptoms of acid reflux or heartburn and will no longer be available to purchase over-the-counter or by prescription. This medication is being recalled because some products were found to have higher than recommended levels of a chemical called NDMA. This chemical may increase the risk of cancer and ranitidine was found to have higher levels of it.  As a result, the FDA is having pharmacies and drug stores remove this medication from its shelves.

If you are taking medication to treat symptoms of acid reflux or heartburn, we recommend that you check the medication label carefully to see if it contains ‘ranitidine.’  If you have any of this medication the FDA recommends you follow these steps:

If you are taking OTC ranitidine:

• STOP taking ranitidine
• Dispose of any remaining tablets or liquid that you currently have
  • Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the FDA is recommending disposal in the following manner:
    1. Mix medicines (liquid or pills; do not crush tablets or capsules) with an unappealing substance such as dirt, cat litter, or used coffee grounds;
    2. Place the mixture in a container such as a sealed plastic bag;
    3. Throw away the container in your trash at home; and
    4. Delete all personal information on the prescription label of empty medicine bottles or medicine packaging, then trash or recycle the empty bottle or packaging
• Do NOT purchase any more of this medication
• Consider another approved OTC medication, like Pepcid (famotidine) or contact your pharmacist or local health center via patient portal or telephone for guidance

If you are currently prescribed ranitidine by your health care provider:

• Contact your local health center via the patient portal or telephone to discuss an alternative medication with your health care provider

Wishing you good health,

Your Hudson Headwaters Health Team