Yaz Lawsuit

Yasmin is a birth control product that’s known by many names, including Yasmin, Yaz and Ocella, which is basically the generic version of the brand-name equivalent.  As the birth control market continues to expand, Yasmin has become more prevalent with women who want to avoid pregnancy.  Below is an overview of Yasmin and its related drugs, the side effects linked to their use and how to proceed if you’ve been injured as a result of using these products.

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Why Is Yasmin, Yaz and Ocella Used?

Yasmin and related products are used to prevent unwanted pregnancies, along with other uses.  In terms of birth control, the products work by preventing ovulation and by creating physiological changes in the woman’s cervical and uterine lining.  These changes make it much more difficult for sperm to reach the uterus and for any fertilized to attach to the uterus.

Yasmin and Ocella have also been used to treat acne in women who were older than 14 and by some to treat the symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), which includes such conditions as dizziness, irritability, anxiety, lack of sleep and other common issues associated with PMDD.

FDA Approval of Yaz, Ocella and Yasmin

Yaz was originally approved for use in the United States by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on May 11, 2001.  The report of approval issued by the FDA listed Drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol as the active ingredients.  Bayer Healthcare was the company listed as the manufacturer on the original approval, and it was reviewed as a ‘standard review drug.’
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Side Effects of Yasmin

There have been numerous reports of serious side effects linked to Yaz and Ocella, and these reports are what has prompted so much scrutiny on these drugs.  Examples of side effects that were reported include:

• Heart attacks
• Strokes
• Kidney damage
• Pulmonary embolisms
• Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
• Gallbladder Disease and Gallbladder removal
• Death

While no official action has been taken as of yet in terms of a recall, these side effects have been found in a number of cases and have prompted litigation.

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Prior Warnings

While there were no official warnings issued in terms of Yaz and its link to these side effects, the FDA and several Attorneys General in different jurisdictions issued letters of warning and statements regarding potentially illegal and misleading advertising that was released in conjunction with the ‘other’ uses of these drugs.

The specific problems with these advertisements, which have since been pulled from the air, include statements/tacit assertions that the drugs were safer than they have actually proven to be, that they could be used to treat premenstrual syndrome (PMS), which they do not and that they could be used for help with acne.  None of these drugs were approved for treating acne.

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Yasmin Contraindications

Over time, doctors have discovered that Yaz and/or Ocella should not be used if the patient is also using any of the following medications:

• Heparin
• Capoten
• Vasotec
• Zestril

Additionally, women who suffer from the following conditions should not use Yaz or Ocella:

• Obesity
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• History of kidney problems

If you are using Yasmin and fall into any of the categories above or use any of the above-named medications, you need to seek immediate medical attention to safely wean yourself from the use of these medications.

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Yaz FAQ’s

How does Yaz and/or Ocella work?

In a biological sense, these drugs work by releasing a progestin hormone known as drsp or drospirenone as well as estrogen into the woman’s circulatory system, thereby preventing unwanted pregnancies.  They are taken in pill form and are used differently than other birth control pills in terms of routine.  Those who have used Yasmin take the pill once daily for 24 days and then do not take it for 4 more, which is distinct from other pills whereby they were taken for 21 days and then not taken for 7.

Should I stop taking Yaz if I’m currently using it?

While you should be wary of any drug that’s come under scrutiny based on its link to side effects, you should be especially concerned if you have any of the conditions previously mentioned.  The best way to proceed is to contact your doctor as soon as possible to schedule a consultation so you can be sure that your risks are minimized.

Has Yaz been recalled?

No, it has not been recalled at this time, but the drug has been the subject of numerous lawsuits around the country and was the target of a warning letter from the FDA that concerned misleading advertising.

How should I proceed if I’ve been harmed by Yasmin?

If you’ve been injured in any way as a result of using Yaz, Yasmin or Ocella, you need to schedule a free initial consultation with the defective drugs lawyers at the Phillips National Injury Group, as you may have legal rights and options that need to be explored.

How do I spread the word about the dangers of Yaz, Yasmin and Ocella birth control pills?

The answer is simple. Tell everyone you know that these drugs are under FDA scrutiny and are currently being investigated by defective drug lawyers around the country.

Yasmin, Yas and Ocella Birth Control Pills

Yasmin, Yaz and Ocella are birth control pills that have been linked to side effects including heart attacks, strokes and death.  The drugs also prompted a warning letter from the FDA because of misleading advertising concerning their safety and usefulness in treating acne and PMS.

Legal Help from Yaz Attorneys and Yaz Lawyers

If you have been injured by any of these birth control pills, contact our law firm today for a FREE case review of your Yaz injury, Yasmin injury or Ocella injury. We have an attorney that can help you.

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