For the past few months, the prescription contraception device NuvaRing has become the focus of a growing number of lawsuits as consumers using the product are alleging that it causes injuries and serious side effects. In November 2009, as the known number of lawsuits against NuvaRing’s manufacturer Organon Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc. reached at least 50, the first known wrongful death lawsuit was filed in New Jersey.
The increasing number of lawsuits includes complaints and allegations that Organon and its subsidiaries were fully aware of NuvaRing’s side effects during the Food and Drug administration’s trial process, as well as in marketing the popular device. Side effects that have been reported in association with NuvaRing users include severe blood clotting and deep vein thrombosis, and the New Jersey case is the first inference that NuvaRing can also possibly cause death.
NuvaRing first gained FDA approval in 2001 and consumers have been reporting side effects and health complications since at least 2007, when a 32-year old woman died from complications associated with deep vein thrombosis. The victim started using NuvaRing in May 2007 and suffered fatal pulmonary thromboemboli, as a result of deep vein thrombosis. Other cases have reported severe blood clotting, which can also lead to amputation of the legs.
NuvaRing works by producing two types of hormones – estrogen and progestin. The hormones work together to stop the ovaries’ production of mature eggs, and the hormones are released once the ring is inserted into and makes contact with the vagina. The hormones are absorbed and distributed into the bloodstream. Both hormones are used in the common birth control pill, however the administration of each contraceptive is obviously different. Like the Pill, NuvaRing boasts a success rate of 99 percent.
Common side effects of NuvaRing include breast tenderness, loss of appetite, weight loss or gain, headaches, nausea, anxiety, dizziness, bloating, and vaginal bleeding unassociated with the menstrual cycle. More serious and severe side effects associated with NuvaRing include allergic reactions, loss of menstrual period, breast discharge and/or lumps, migraines, numbness and/or swelling of limbs, shortness of breath, sudden vomiting, dark urine, and coughing up blood.
A New York-based marketing firm recently announced that NuvaRing ranked highest among pharmaceutical products for Web site traffic created by consumer television ads, beating out Cialis and Latisse.
If you or a loved one has experienced serious side effects or health complications with NuvaRing, 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. Not only can they give you the legal guidance you need, they can help you get the compensation you deserve.