The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently announced the publication of two studies which examined the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE), or blood clots, in women who use birth control pills containing drospirenone. According to the FDA safety alert, birth control brand names of products containing drospirenone include Yaz (generics: Gianvi and Loryna), Yasmin (generics: Ocella, Syeda, and Zarah), Beyaz, and Safyral.
Based on study results, there is a heightened risk of developing blood clots associated with Yaz, Yasmin, and other birth control bills which contain drospirenone. The danger is reported to be up to 2 to 3 times greater than the danger of blood clots linked to the use of other birth control pills containing levonorgestrel.
As the FDA investigates the results from these studies, the agency will examine all current information available in order to conduct a complete assessment of the risks and benefits of birth control pills that contain drospirenone. The FDA recommends that women taking birth control pills containing drospirenone speak with their doctor first before they stop taking the pill.
Some adverse side effects which women should report to their healthcare providers include the symptoms of blood clots, such as leg pain, chest pain, or shortness of breath. It is also recommended that women over 35 who smoke not take certain oral contraceptives due to an increased chance of experiencing serious cardiovascular problems, including blood clots.
Drug manufacturers have the responsibility of ensuring that the products they create, test, label and distribute are safe for the purpose intended, and, that potential side effects are adequately and timely identified and communicated to consumers and healthcare providers. The New Jersey product liability attorneys at Blume Forte have experience protecting the rights of individuals injured by defective drug products; and, can investigate your possible claim arising out of the use of prescription and over-the-counter medications. Call our personal injury law firm at 973-845-4421 for a no-cost consultation.