The Zantac (Ranitidine) Class Action was dismissed by Justice Wilkinson of the Supreme Court of  British Columbia in Dussiaume v Sandoz Canada Inc., 2023 BCSC 795; the judgement can be found here. Siskinds is of the opinion that this class proceeding is no longer viable, and the representative plaintiff no longer wishes to pursue the claim against manufacturers and distributors of Zantac.

In British Columbia, a notice of abandonment of appeal was filed on November 20, 2023. As of this date, the limitation period for bringing any potential claim related to the issues in the proposed class proceeding, if there is any time left within it, recommenced. Class members need to take their own steps if they wish to advance their claims for Zantac (Ranitidine) related damages.

In Ontario, Siskinds is seeking the approval of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice to dismiss the proposed class proceeding.

What is a Class Action?

A class action is a lawsuit brought by one or more persons on behalf of a larger group of people whose claims share common legal and/or factual issues. Class actions provide a cost-effective way for groups of people with common interests to pursue a legal claim.

What does “certification” mean?

Certification is the motion where the court determines whether the action can properly be pursued as a class action. The court will consider factors such as whether the claims of the class members raise common legal and/or factual issues and whether a class action is the preferable method of pursuing the claims (as opposed to other methods, such as individual actions).

Do I have to pay anything to participate in the class action?

Class action lawyers are usually paid on a contingency basis. This means that class counsel are only paid if successful. Class counsel are paid a percentage of any settlement or court award. Class counsel fees are subject to court approval.

Who is affected by the Zantac/Ranitidine class action?

All persons in Canada who purchased and/or ingested Zantac/Ranitidine and their estates, administrators or other legal representatives.

Can I join the class action?

There are no steps required to “join” the class action. Assuming you fall within the scope of the class definition, you are automatically included in the proposed class action unless you “opt out” (exclude yourself from the class action).

Can I exclude myself from the class action?

Yes. If the class action is certified, you will be given an opportunity to opt out (exclude yourself from the class action). If you opt out, you will not be able to participate in any settlement or court award achieved in the class action, but you may be able to pursue your claim on an individual basis. Generally speaking, you would only want to opt out of a class action if you intend to bring an individual action. In most circumstances, it is more cost effective to participate in a class action because the legal costs are spread over a large number of people, making it more economic for any individual class member to obtain relief.

What should I do to protect my rights?

To protect your rights, you should:

1) Register to receive updates about the class action by clicking the ‘Join’ button above and completing the form.

2) Keep a copy of all documents that may be relevant to this class action, such as:

• Medical expenses incurred—appointments not covered by your provincial health care provider, prescriptions, medical devices, receipts, etc.;
• All medical treatments, including the names and contact information of the health care provider (doctor, surgeon, physiotherapist etc.);
• Pharmaceutical and medical records.

3) If possible, keep a journal of symptoms and note down any times when you or family members are unable to attend work or school as a result of your symptoms.