The total of lawsuits filed against Bayer over the alleged dangerous side effects of the prescription birth control medicine Yaz, Yasmin and Ocella has reached more than 1,100, according to a recent report released by the major pharmaceutical company. The report, Bayer’s 2009 annual report, also includes the five current class action lawsuits against the drug manufacturer. Three class action suits are in the U.S. while two are in Canada.
Thousands more women are expected to file additional lawsuits or join the current class action cases as the alleged dangers of the prescription medication continue to be reported. Yaz and its related drugs are accused of causing serious, life-threatening side effects, including heart attacks, strokes, pulmonary embolisms, deep vein thrombosis, gallbladder disease, and even sudden death. Bayer is also being accused of marketing the drospirenone-based contraception medication irresponsibly and with full knowledge that the drug was capable of causing serious injury.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has previously warned Bayer about misleading marketing and advertising campaigns, which resulted in last summer’s $20 million corrective advertising campaign. Bayer launched a variety of new commercials to include warnings about these dangerous side effects and injuries, however many legal experts predict that as many as 25,000 lawsuits could end up being filed because of Yaz.
Yaz’s key ingredient is drospirenone, which raises the body’s level of potassium. Elevated levels of potassium can lead to serious complications with blood clots and gallstones, thus in turn leading to gallbladder disease. At least 50 deaths have been linked to Yaz and related contraceptive medications.
In 2009, Yaz accounted for more than $1.7 billion in profit for Bayer, as Yaz was and still is the leading brand of female birth control in North America.
If you or a loved one has experienced a serious side effect or symptoms of side effects related to Yaz, Yasmin, or the generic Ocella, contact Newsome Law Firm and fill out a case evaluation form today. Our team of attorneys has experience specific to complications associated with prescription medication recalls. Not only can they give you the legal guidance you need, they can help you get the compensation you deserve.