Yaz & Stroke Danger
Yaz is a popular birth control pill that has been used in the United States since 2001. Also known by the names Yasmin, Yasmine, and the generic Ocella, the drosperinone contraceptive is used by women to prevent pregnancy. The drug works by stopping ovulation, altering cervical mucus, and changing the uterine lining to make pregnancy difficult or impossible.
Bayer, the German pharmaceutical company famous for its aspirin, produces this common birth control pill. Approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), drosperinone is also used to treat premenstrual dysphonic disorder (PMDD) and moderate cases of acne.
Popular worldwide, this hot new pill has the potential to cause severe life-threatening side effects. In 2008, when the FDA cited Bayer for misleading commercials and product marketing, 129 people filed lawsuits against the company. Since then, many others have joined them. Numerous reports indicate that drosperinone can cause pulmonary embolism, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), heart attacks, and strokes or “brain attacks.”
Stroke is the third-leading cause of death in America, and it is the leading cause of disability in adults. Up to 80 percent of these brain attacks are preventable for those who recognize the warning signs. Strokes occur when a blood clot blocks an artery and interrupts blood flow to the brain. When this happens, brain cells start to die, causing brain damage, disability, and even death.
Dangerous blood clots are most likely to affect women older than 35, those who smoke, and those with a history of heart problems. Anyone taking the drosperinone contraceptive should be aware of all the signs and symptoms. The earlier a problem is treated, the less serious damage occurs.
Common signs and symptoms of Yaz-related strokes include headaches; mental confusion; problems walking, talking, or seeing; drooling; vomiting; and numbness on one side of the body. Women who experience any of these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention before permanent, irreversible damage occurs to her health.
To minimize the risks, women should discuss their complete medical history with their doctor before taking the drosperinone contraceptive pill. Only women with low risk factors should use any of the brand name or generic forms of the drug. High-risk patients should use another, safer birth control agent.
If you are a Yaz or Yasmin stroke survivor, or have lost a loved due to a drosperinone-related death, complete the web form to contact an attorney. You may qualify to file a lawsuit against Bayer and recover compensation for medical, financial, and emotional damages.
