Two of the most popular birth control pills used by millions of women globally are Yaz and Yasmin. As we have posted on our blog, there have been studies and new research indicating that these drugs may increase the risk of blood clots, which can lead to pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also received many reports of injuries and death following the use of these birth control drugs.
A prescription medication that causes blood clots is very serious because the blood clots can lead to heart attacks and strokes, which can be fatal. A study published in the British Medical Journal in October 2011 found that pills that contain the synthetic hormone drospirenone, such as Yaz and Yasmin, increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) six to seven-fold. Deep vein thrombosis is the formation of blood clots in the leg that can travel to the lungs. Drospirenone can increase potassium to dangerous levels, known as hyperkalemia, which is a condition involving serious and potentially fatal heart problems.
Side effects of drospirenone are blood clots, pulmonary embolism, gallbladder disease, gallbladder damage, kidney stones and renal failure. Many of these conditions can be life threatening.
Thousands of women have filed lawsuits against the maker of Yaz and Yasmin, Bayer Healthcare Pharmaceuticals, for their injuries. Despite the fact that Bayer has denied any wrongdoing, they have settled 8,250 cases so far in the amount of $1.7 billion by March 2014. There are still thousands of pending cases and Bayer has confirmed they will continue settling individual lawsuits on a case-by-case basis.
If you or a loved one suffered injuries or death related to Yaz or Yasmin use, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. For a free consultation with one of our experienced Gacovino Lake attorneys, call 1-800-246-HURT (4878) to discuss your case and review the legal options available to you.
