FDA Adds Blood Clot Warning To Birth Control Patch

Washington ( dbTechno) - The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved a new warning to be added to the label of a popular birth control patch Ortho Evra Contraceptive Transderman Patch. The new warning details an increased risk of blood clots.

A new study has shown that the risk of getting a blood clot is almost twice as big for women using the birth control patch. Since 2004 it has been noted that 16 women have developed blood clots, all linked to using the birth control patch.

The FDA has added the warning to alert people of an increased risk of blood clots from using the birth control patch. The patch has been linked to blood clots in women who apply it. The blood clots are called venous thromboembolism.

The increased blood clot risk comes because women who use the birth control patch have more than 60% of the estrogen than women who take birth control pills.

The FDA deputy commissioner for scientific and medical programs, Dr. Janet Woodcock, stated “For women that choose to use contraceptives, it is important that they thoroughly discuss with their health-care providers the risk and benefits involved.”

The FDA did state that it is a “safe method of contraception when used according to the label.” They stressed that women must consult with their doctor before using the patch.