Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals, the maker of Yaz birth control, has been charged with failing to adequately disclose to the public health risks associated with Yaz by federal regulators.
You may have noticed recent commercials in which Yaz birth control is correcting statements made in prior commercials. They are not doing this by choice, but because 27 states jointly sued the makers of Yaz for false advertising after the FDA issued a warning letter about two commercials. The lawsuit was settled when Bayer agreed to spend 20 million dollars on advertising to correct its prior false statements.
Risks
While there are certain risks inherent in use of all birth control, Yaz, and its family of products which include Yasmin, Yasminelle, and Angeliq carry additional, unique risks. Many health care professionals are concerned about these particular forms of birth control as they are all made with a new type of progestin called drospirenone for which the risks are not yet fully understood. Research and clinical experience shows an increased risk for side effects in women choosing Yaz. Unfortunately, many women have already serious injuries due to Yaz use, such as those listed below:
- High potassium levels (Hyperkalemia). Caused by the progesterone, drospirenone, used in Yaz, Hyperkalemia can result in serious heart and other health problems. Women taking Yaz are advised to get regular blood tests while on Yaz to increase awareness of their potassium levels while using Yaz.
- Blood clots. The risk of blood clots, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (in the lungs), and other thrombotic events is increased with the use of Yaz. Women who smoke while taking Yaz are at even greater risk.
- Heart attack
- Stroke. Some evidence has indicated that women who suffer from migraines could be at an elevated risk for stroke when taking Yaz.
- Liver tumors, which may be benign or cancerous
- High blood pressure
- Gallbladder Disease
- Breast and cervical cancer
Interactions
It is always important before taking any medication to disclose your physical and psychological health history to your prescribing physician. Women who take certain medications, such as those listed below, are advised not to take Yaz due to the possible increased risk of side-effects:
- NSAIDS, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as Aleve, Advil, and Motrin
- ACE inhibitors
- Certain Diuretics
- Potassium supplements (potassium can also be found in electrolyte drinks, such as Gatorade)
- Heparin (a type of blood thinner)
- Aldosterone antagonists
- Angiotensin II receptor antagonists
If you or a loved one has suffered serious health problems while taking Yaz, you may wish to speak with a qualified attorney who can advise you of your legal rights. Women who have suffered from the side-effects of Yaz side may be able to obtain compensation for their medical bills, pain and suffering, and more. Please contact us to learn more about the risks associated with Yaz and how we can help if you have been adversely affected by the use of Yaz.