Kenny Habetz Injury Law | May 15, 2025 | Product Liability
Zantac, once a popular over-the-counter medication for heartburn and acid reflux, has been at the center of thousands of lawsuits after it was linked to cancer-causing contaminants. If you or a loved one took Zantac in Crowley, LA, and later developed cancer, you may be wondering how much compensation victims are receiving. However, the answer to that question is far more complex than it might seem.
Understanding the Zantac Controversy
Zantac was recalled in 2020 after the FDA confirmed it contained NDMA (N-Nitrosodimethylamine), a known carcinogen. The contamination increased over time, and when exposed to heat, meaning even proper storage could not prevent exposure. As a result, countless consumers unknowingly ingested a harmful substance for months or even years.
The resulting lawsuits claim that manufacturers knew or should have known about the risks but failed to warn the public. Plaintiffs allege that prolonged use of Zantac has contributed to various cancers, including bladder, stomach, esophageal, liver, and pancreatic cancer.
What Is the Average Zantac Settlement?
As of early 2025, most Zantac lawsuits have not yet reached final settlement or trial verdicts. However, litigation is advancing in federal multidistrict litigation (MDL) and state courts, including here in Louisiana. At this time, there is no definitive average settlement figure that accurately reflects the potential outcomes for individual cases.
That said, some early settlements and legal expert projections suggest individual payouts may range from $10,000 to over $500,000, depending on the severity of the illness, strength of the evidence, and other case-specific factors. Keep in mind, these are only projections. No global settlement has been reached, and outcomes can vary significantly based on the facts of each case.
Factors That Affect Settlement Value
The amount of compensation a Zantac plaintiff might receive depends on several essential factors, including:
- Type and stage of cancer diagnosed: Different cancers have varying prognoses and associated medical expenses, which can significantly impact potential settlement amounts.
- Duration and dosage of Zantac usage: Individuals who took Zantac for longer periods and at higher dosages may have a stronger link to the alleged harm.
- Strength of the medical and scientific evidence: Establishing a clear causal link is critical in every case.
- Age and overall health of the claimant: These factors can influence the impact of the cancer and the extent of damages sought.
- Jurisdiction and applicable state laws: Legal precedents and damage caps can vary from state to state.
- Medical expenses: Documented past and future medical costs associated with the cancer diagnosis and treatment are significant components of personal injury claims.
- Lost wages: Individuals who cannot work due to their illness may seek compensation for past and future lost income.
- Pain and suffering: This category of damages accounts for the physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life resulting from the cancer.
All of these factors work together to shape the unique value of each Zantac claim, making it essential to evaluate your case accurately with the guidance of experienced legal counsel.
What This Means for You
If you or a loved one in Louisiana has been diagnosed with cancer after taking Zantac, focusing on a hypothetical average settlement can be misleading. Your case is unique, and the potential value of your claim depends on the specific facts surrounding your diagnosis and medication history.
Moving Forward With Legal Assistance
Zantac litigation is a complex and ongoing process. While seeking benchmarks for potential compensation is understandable, relying solely on average figures can create false expectations. Instead, work with an experienced Crowley product liability lawyer who can help you understand your legal options and build the strongest case possible.
Contact the Louisiana Law Firm Of Kenny Habetz Injury Law for Help Today
If you’ve been involved in a product liability case, please call Kenny Habetz Injury Law for a free case evaluation with a Louisiana personal injury lawyer or contact us online. We have offices in Lafayette and Crowley, LA.
Kenny Habetz Injury Law – Lafayette
110 E Kaliste Saloom Rd Ste 101 Lafayette, LA 70508
(337) 399-9000
Kenny Habetz Injury Law – Crowley
604 S Parkerson Ave. Crowley, LA 70526
(337) 329-8883
