According to officials at the FDA, there are possible problems associated with another Bayer birth control drug, this one known as Beyaz. Though slightly different than it’s cousins, Yaz and Yasmin, Beyaz still contains the same levels of drospirenone as the others.
Beyaz was initially approved by the FDA in 2010 as a slightly different version of previously approved drugs. Beyaz contains folic acid in addition to drospirenone, an addition meant to help prevent birth defects in unexpected pregnancies. Though this chemical contribution is a good thing, it doesn’t diminish the risk of blood clots and VTEs as well as other complications associated with drospirenone-containing birth control drugs.
A recent report issued by the FDA described the problems reported among those taking the medication. It turns out there have been nearly 500 Beyaz-related reports to the FDA, 19 of which involve girls 17 or younger. Given the serious risks posed by the drug, the FDA is also pushing for changes to the labels of Beyaz and its counterparts. Though the regulatory agency said that the link between drospirenone pills and blood clots is not yet proven, it could not be ruled out either and that fact alone warrants new labels that convey the very real possibility of increased blood clot risks.
Most common contraceptive pills combine the hormones estrogen and progestin, which are used to block ovulation and sperm. They also increase the chance of a woman getting blood clots when compared to women who do not take birth control pills. A study released earlier this year found a higher risk of venous thromboembolisms (VTEs) in women, especially those younger than 35, who were taking Yasmin. VTEs occur when a blood clot occurs in one of the deep veins in the body and then travels to the lungs. The study also reported a higher risk of arterial thrombotic events, or ATEs, in older women on Yasmin. Both VTEs and ATEs significantly increase the risk of strokes or death in patients.
If you or someone you know have been injured by a defective product and you would like to discuss your case with an attorney, please contact the Georgia product liability litigation attorneys at Pope McGlamry P.C. today to schedule a free consultation.
Source: “FDA eyes stronger warning on popular birth control,” by Alina Selyukh, published at Reuters.com.
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