MEDSAFE have issued an Alert Communication on medicines containing Ranitidine (Zantac)

Medicines containing ranitidine may contain an impurity called N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA).

These medicines may be prescribed or can be purchased over the counter and are used for heartburn, gastric reflux or ulcers. Current information indicates that any impurity is at a low level.

NDMA is a potential carcinogen that is commonly found in some foods, water and air.  The levels of NDMA impurity detected in ranitidine to date, if taken over decades, may modestly increase the risk of developing cancer.

GlaxoSmithKline (NZ) Ltd has put a halt on all further supply of Zantac Injection 50mg/2mL until further information on the safety of this product is available.

Due to the limited data currently available, all products containing ranitidine are potentially affected.

The alert suggests this may be more relevant for long term use however Midwives who prescribe and/or administer Ranitidine (Zantac) need to be aware that the full information is not yet available and the Medsafe alert provides advice for prescribers and consumers.

This link will take you to the full Safety Information

https://www.medsafe.govt.nz/safety/Alerts/MedicinesAndNDMA.asp

Medsafe will publish updated information as it becomes available.