Two new studies published in the British Medical Journal suggest that women who take birth control pills with the newer hormone drospirenone (found in Beyaz, Loryna, Safyral, Syeda, Yasmin, and Yaz) have a higher risk for developing potentially serious blood clots than women who take birth control pills containing the older hormone levonorgestrel.
In general, there is a very small increased risk for developing blood clots while taking birth control pills. However, women taking birth control pills or considering taking them should be aware that there may be an increased risk of developing a blood clot associated with the use of pills containing drospirenone.
For more information, please visit:
http://www.mediguard.org/r/0lJcaPtlMeY and
http://www.mediguard.org/r/0v4E9mwDmz8E
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WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?
There are many birth control options on the market and it is important for women to talk to their doctor and understand the potential risks and benefits of each when making their decision.
While birth control pills are effective and beneficial, they can raise the risk of developing blood clots. These new studies highlight the importance of reviewing the benefits and risks of your specific birth control pill with your doctor or other healthcare professional, especially if you smoke or are overweight which are factors that can further increase your risk for blood clots.
If you have questions or concerns about this safety alert or think you are experiencing side effects from your medicine, please follow up with your doctor.
For updated risk ratings on all of your registered medications, or to update your medication list, please log into your profile (https://www.mediguard.org/user).
You can also reach your profile by clicking on the link in the top right corner of any page on our web site.
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