Bayer Updates Labels for Yaz and Yasmin
On April 9, 2010, a press release from Bayer stated it will update the labels for Yaz and Yasmin. The statement from Bayer indicates that the FDA has approved the new labels for Yaz and Yasmin. The updated labels confirm evidence showing that Yaz and Yasmin have a comparable risk of developing venous thromboembolism (VTE) as other combination oral contraceptive pills. What is not clear from Bayer's press release is which other birth control pills are most similar in their risk-profile to Yaz and Yasmin. The safest birth control pills on the market contain second generation progestins like levonorgestrel. Third generation progestins such as desogestrel have a significantly higher risk of thrombolic events than the second generation progestins.
The new labels will include data from four studies; two commissioned by Bayer and two independent studies. Not surprisingly, the studies commissioned by Bayer support its contention that the progestin in Yaz and Yasmin, drosperinone, does not have a significantly increased risk of VTEs including stroke, deep vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism.
The two independent studies which we have commented on previously, indicate that the risk of venous thrombolic events is significantly higher with the drosperinone containing birth control pills, Yaz and Yasmin.
Bayer, in its press release, downplays the significance of the independent studies, while suggesting the two studies it commissioned are superior in their design and relevance. However, the mere fact that Bayer is updating its label for these drugs to include results of all four studies is significant for all those pursuing legal claims against Bayer for injuries they suffered while taking Yaz and Yasmin.
Women who have been injured by these birth control pills should feel vindicated by the fact that Bayer is updating the label of Yaz and Yasmin to indicate that studies support that drosperinone containing oral contraceptives are more risky than other birth control pills on the market.
Our office continues to represent women who suffered serious injuries while taking Yaz, Yasmin or Ocella birth control pills. Please
contact us if you or a loved one have been severely injured from Yaz, Yasmin or Ocella.