Drospirenone Associated With Increased Risk for Blood Clots

Women without risk factors for blood clots, venous thromboembolism (VTE), who are taking the third-generation oral contraceptive drospirenone found in YAZ, Yaz 28, Yazmin, Beyaz, Zarah, Gianvi, and Ocella have an increased risk for nonfatal blood clots, VTE, compared with women taking the second-generation contraceptive levonorgestrel, according to the findings of 2 new case-control studies.

The studies published in the British Medical Journal adds to emerging evidence that use of the oral contraceptive containing drospirenone is associated with a higher risk of blood clot, [VTE] than are preparations containing levonorgestrel,” Dr. Jick and colleagues conclude.

“In the meantime, as no clear evidence exists to show that the use of the drospirenone pill confers benefits above those of other oral contraceptives in preventing pregnancy, treating acne, alleviating premenstrual syndrome, or avoiding weight gain,” they add, “prescribing lower risk levonorgestrel preparations as the first line choice in women wishing to take an oral contraceptive would seem prudent.”

Pill containing levonorgestrel are Alesse, Aviane, Lessina, Levlen, Lutera, Lybrel, Nordette, Portia, Sronyx, Enpresse, Levlite, Tri-Levlen, Triphasil, Trivora, Jolessa, LoSeasonique, Quasense, Seasonale, and Seasonique.

J. Kyle Mathews, MD

Plano OB Gyn Associates

Plano Urogynecology Associates

Tags: AZ, Beyaz, Blood Clots, Dr. Mathews, Gianvi, new, Ocella, oral contraceptive, VTE, women, YAZ, Yaz 28, Yazmin, Zarah | Category: Gynecology, News & Education, Our Blog |