Famotidine Recall Lawsuit | March 2025 Latest Updates

Famotidine Recall Lawsuit Overview

Famotidine, the active ingredient in Pepcid AC, is a popular antacid drug used to treat stomach and intestinal ulcers. In January 2020, a number of similar antacids including Zantac (ranitidine) and Axid (nizatidine) were recalled after they were found to be contaminated with the cancer-causing impurity NDMA [1].

While Famotidine did not test positive for NDMA contamination and was not removed from the market, there have been concerns about its long-term side effects and potential complications.

As an H2-blocker medication similar to the recalled drugs, Famotidine has come under increased scrutiny, with some patients experiencing serious side effects.

The Pharmaceutical Litigation Group at our law firm is currently investigating potential class action lawsuits related to Famotidine across all 50 states, focusing on cases where patients have suffered adverse reactions that weren’t adequately disclosed by manufacturers.

Related Article: Zantac Lawsuit

Latest Famotidine Recall Lawsuit Updates

• August 13, 2024 – Schmidt & Clark, LLP continues to evaluate potential Famotidine cases involving serious side effects, particularly neurological symptoms that may occur in elderly patients and those with kidney disease.
• June 2023 – Following continued monitoring of H2 blockers, the FDA maintains that Famotidine shows no evidence of NDMA contamination, differentiating it from recalled medications like Zantac.
• January 2020 – The FDA requested testing of various H2 blockers after discovering cancer-causing NDMA in Zantac. Famotidine was tested and found to be free of NDMA, allowing it to remain on the market while similar drugs were recalled.

Reports and Statistics on Famotidine Safety

Current data on Famotidine’s safety profile indicates:

• The FDA has not required a recall of Famotidine products, as testing has found no NDMA or similar carcinogenic impurities.
• Famotidine has become a popular alternative for patients who previously used recalled heartburn medications.
• The drug has been subject to increased monitoring since related medications were found to contain dangerous impurities.
• Studies have shown that Famotidine has a different chemical structure than ranitidine, making it less likely to form harmful compounds [2].
• The FDA continues to monitor all H2 blockers for potential impurities as part of enhanced post-recall vigilance.

Famotidine Recall Risks & Side Effects

While Famotidine has not been recalled, it can cause a range of side effects that may be particularly concerning for certain patients.

These include:

• Neurological Effects: Confusion, delirium, hallucinations, disorientation, agitation, seizures, or unusual drowsiness, particularly in elderly patients and those with kidney disease.
• Cardiovascular Issues: Fast, irregular, pounding, or racing heartbeat or pulse that may require medical attention.
• Gastrointestinal Problems: Bleeding gums, bloody or tarry stools, blood in urine, which could indicate serious complications.
• Dermatological Reactions: Blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin that may indicate allergic reactions.
• Psychological Symptoms: Anxiety, feeling sad or empty, irritability, discouragement, and other mood disturbances.

Do You Qualify for a Famotidine Lawsuit?

While Famotidine itself has not been recalled, you may qualify for a lawsuit if:

• You experienced severe side effects after taking Famotidine that weren’t adequately warned about on the label.
• You suffered neurological symptoms such as confusion, agitation, or hallucinations, especially if you are elderly or have kidney disease.
• You were switched from Zantac to Famotidine without proper warnings about potential side effects.
• You required medical intervention or hospitalization due to Famotidine side effects.
• You have documented evidence linking your health complications to Famotidine use.

Evidence Required for a Famotidine Lawsuit

To strengthen your case, you should gather:

• Medical records documenting your Famotidine prescription and usage
• Documentation of any adverse effects you experienced
• Doctor’s notes linking your symptoms to Famotidine use
• Prescription records showing the dates and dosages
• Any communications with healthcare providers about your symptoms
• Evidence that you followed dosage guidelines but still experienced serious side effects

Damages You Can Recover

If you’ve suffered harm from taking Famotidine, you may be entitled to compensation for:

1. Medical Expenses: Costs for treating side effects, including hospital stays, medications, and ongoing care.
2. Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work due to Famotidine-related health issues.
3. Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical discomfort and emotional distress caused by side effects.
4. Long-term Medical Costs: Coverage for future medical needs if you’ve suffered lasting health effects.

Famotidine Usage Guidelines

While Famotidine has not been subject to a recall, users should be aware of important safety information:

• Do not take more than two tablets, capsules, or chewable tablets of Famotidine per day
• Do not take over-the-counter Famotidine for longer than 2 weeks unless your doctor advises otherwise
• Patients with kidney disease should use reduced dosages
• Elderly patients should be monitored for neurological side effects
• To discontinue Famotidine safely after regular use, doctors recommend tapering off by alternating with a proton pump inhibitor and OTC antacids

Statute of Limitations for Famotidine Lawsuits

The statute of limitations for filing a Famotidine-related lawsuit varies by state and typically ranges from 1-6 years from the date of injury or discovery of harm. It’s important to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure your case is filed within the appropriate timeframe.Some key considerations:

• • Most states allow 2-3 years to file a pharmaceutical injury claim
  • The “discovery rule” may extend the deadline in cases where the connection between Famotidine and your injuries wasn’t immediately apparent
  • Different statutes may apply depending on whether you’re filing a personal injury claim or joining a class action
  • Consulting with an attorney early ensures you don’t miss critical deadlines

FAQs

Get Your Free Famotidine Recall Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action for Famotidine-related injuries. Statute of limitations laws may restrict how long you have to file a claim, making it crucial to act promptly if you’ve experienced serious side effects.

The Pharmaceutical Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus on the representation of plaintiffs in lawsuits.

We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently investigating potential class action lawsuits in all 50 states.

We offer:

• Free, confidential consultations
• No upfront costs or fees
• Payment only if we win your case

Reference:

1. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-updates-and-press-announcements-ndma-zantac-ranitidine
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK548228/