YAZ is a contraceptive medication known particularly for its combination of drospirenone, a synthetic progesterone, and ethinyl estradiol, which is the major endogenous estrogen found in humans.
In addition to birth control, YAZ is also prescribed as a treatment for anxiety, irritability, depression, lack of energy, joint and muscle pain, weight gain, headache, and other symptoms related to premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). It may also be used to treat moderate cases of acne for females age 14 and older who are menstruating.
YAZ works by preventing ovulation and changing the cervical and uterine lining to decrease the likelihood of sperm reaching and fertilizing an egg and the egg attaching to the uterus. When taken as directed, it is said to have an effectiveness rate of 99 percent in preventing pregnancy.
Since arriving on the U.S. market in 2006, YAZ has been the focus of legal claims by more than 13,000 patients who cite a variety of health risks. Blood clot-related injuries are the most prominent of issues related to YAZ, including:
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- Pulmonary embolism
- Stroke
- Heart attack
YAZ has also been linked to elevated potassium levels, which can cause deadly heart attacks. Many of the other adverse side effects are life-threatening and, in some cases, lead to death.
Multiple organizations and publications have warned of the complications of YAZ, including the Institute for Safe Medication Practices and The New England Journal of Medicine, among others. You may have a case if you or someone you love has experienced any of the cited symptoms or conditions while taking YAZ.
At McDivitt Law Firm, we feel that you deserve information that may be relevant to your rights as a consumer. We want to alert you to a potential claim regarding this medication that you or someone you know may have been prescribed.
We may be able to help you if:
- You have experienced an injury resulting from blood clots or elevated potassium levels while taking YAZ.
- You have a loved one who has suffered serious injury resulting from a blood clot-related condition or due to elevated potassium levels.
If you or someone you know has taken YAZ and been affected by the health risks listed above, please contact us for a confidential case evaluation.