FDA Updates Warnings on Ortho Evra Patch

By Elizabeth Rhein

Published on September 24, 2006

The most recent research indicates that Ortho Evra, the popular birth control patch, is far more likely to cause blood clots in the legs and lungs than other methods of estrogen-based contraception, such as the traditional birth control pill.

Results from the two studies were contradictory. One study revealed that patients using the Ortho Evra patch were twice as likely to experience dangerous blood clots than patients using traditional birth control pills. The other study showed no increase in the risk of blood clots among patch users.

Despite the inconsistencies between studies, the FDA felt there was sufficient evidence to include an updated warning on the patient information for Ortho Evra.

This most recent change follows the FDA warning added to Ortho Evra packaging in November 2005. At that time, the agency alerted patients and doctors that the patch exposes women to about 60 percent more estrogen than do birth control pills. Studies have shown that increased estrogen can result in breast cancer and other complications.

If you are currently using the Ortho Evra patch and are concerned about the possible risks, talk to your doctor to determine the best course of action.

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