Ministry sounds alarm on medication

PEOPLE taking ranitidine medication on a long-term basis could be at an increased risk of developing cancer.

This was after the Ministry of Health and Medical Services was informed of an alert on the medication by Medicines Regulators around the world.

Ranitidine is used for treatment of heartburn, gastric reflux or ulcers.

In a statement on Friday, the ministry said the alerts advised that ranitidine-containing products might be contaminated with an impurity called N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) and its long-term exposure (over years) could increase a person’s risk of developing cancer.

However, the ministry also clarified that the risks from short-term use of ranitidine were expected to be extremely low.

The Health Ministry said ranitidine was available locally to patients in the form of 150mg or 300mg tablets.

It is usually a prescribed medicine but is also available over the counter.

“The Ministry of Health and Medical Services is working with the Fiji Medicinal Products Board to monitor developments and assess the situation in Fiji as it evolves,” Government highlighted in a statement.

“We are working with WHO and other international regulators for regular updates on the situation globally.”

Fijians have not been told to stop taking the medication, however, the ministry said if one had any concerns about their ranitidine medication, it should be discussed with their healthcare provider.

“Consistent with the advice being issued by Medicines Regulators abroad, the ministry is not calling for individuals to stop taking this medication. If you have concerns regarding your ranitidine, you may wish to discuss with your healthcare provider, so they can assess and prescribe an alternative treatment option available in Fiji.

“Doctors and pharmacists should support patients who are worried about taking ranitidine or have been taking it long-term to switch to alternative treatment options. The risks for patients taking low-dose ranitidine occasionally or in the shortterm remain very low.

“Health care providers can also recommend lifestyle modifications that can be used as alternatives to manage patients’ conditions.”