Personal Injury Law

Dangerous Contraceptive Patch

By Beth Janicek

Public Citizen has filed a petition with the FDA requesting that the Ortho-Evra patch be removed from the shelf within six months.  The patch has been found to release dangerously high levels of estrogen which pose an increase risk of blood clots.

The Ortho-Evra label was changed again in 2006 and 2008 to include findings from studies that revealed an up to two-fold increase in the risk of blood clots in women using the patch compared to standard oral contraceptives.

The organization seeks removal because the costs outweigh the benefits.  There has been little evidence to support that it is more effective than the birth control pill and there are considerable risks not associated with taking the birth control pill.

To read the full petition, go to www.NotMyPatch.org.

Blood clots can be a serious risk to women.  I have handled several cases where young women have died from blood clots (not necessarily from using this patch).  It is important that women understand the risks associated with using the patch and be sure to tell their treating medical providers they are using the patch in case they are suffering from any of the risks associated with it.

Full post as published by San Antonio Personal Injury Lawyer on May 09, 2008 (boomark / email).