Often mistaken for a blood clot, the development of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is characterized as the formation of a clot deep within the tissue. Subsequently, they are a blood clot located within the innermost veins and arteries. Furthermore, their development may coincide with severe, life-threatening complications if they are large enough. Unfortunately, certain pharmaceutical products may contribute to the rate in which this condition occurs. Women who use Ocella (generic: drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol) may significantly increase their risk of developing DVT and any corresponding complications that may ensue.
If you or a loved one has suffered from the development of DVT after taking Ocella, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free confidential case evaluation. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.
Ocella Deep Vein Thrombosis Lawsuit Overview
Ocella was introduced to the U.S. market by Barr Laboratories, a subsidiary of Teva Pharmaceuticals, one of the largest distributers of generic medications in America. Prior to its 2008 release, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved of the use of Ocella to assist in the prevention of pregnancy as an oral contraceptive. However, Ocella treatment was also indicated to reduce the symptoms associated with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and moderate bouts of acne.
As a fourth generation contraceptive, Ocella utilizes an active ingredient known as drospirenone. Drospirenone is a progestin that has the inherent ability to alter the conditions in the cervical and uterine lining, therefore preventing the ovulation process in women. By suppressing what are known as gonadotropins, drospirenone inhibits ovulation by altering the cervical mucus (which increases the difficulty of sperm entry into the uterus) and the endometrium (which reduces the likelihood of implantation). When taken as directed, Ocella has shown a 99% success rate in preventing pregnancy.
Unfortunately, recent evidence suggests that drospirenone-containing contraceptives like Ocella may result in severe complications. According to studies, the introduction of drospirenone may increase potassium levels beyond that which is safe. These findings were supported by a recent FDA Advisory Committee that concluded such an increase in potassium may lead to the development of dangerous side effects. Of particular concern to the committee, was the increased development rate of deep vein thrombosis that has been witnessed in drospirenone users. The development of DVT may coincide with several complications, each of which may be life-threatening. Due to the severity of these clots, women may contact a lawyer at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP for a free case evaluation regarding their potential Ocella deep vein thrombosis lawsuit.
Deep Vein Thrombosis
Deep vein thrombosis is characterized by the formation of a blood clot in a vein deep within the tissue. Also known as thrombi, DVT is the result of the body trying to heal itself from any injuries the blood vessel has sustained. While deep vein thrombi are considered a safety mechanism, their presence may result in catastrophic complications. If the clotting process is too extensive, and not enough blood is permitted to pass, the circulatory system is unable to maintain an efficient flow of blood. The clot therefore serves as an obstacle in the blood stream that prevents the transportation of nutrients and oxygen to the rest of the body. As a result, vital organs may starve and eventually suffer from severe complications. The following complications may result from deep vein thrombosis:
- Venous thromboembolism (VTE)
- Pulmonary embolism
- Hyperkalemia
- Cerebrovascular accidents (CVA)
- Heart attack
- Myocardial infraction
- Gallbladder complications
- Death
FDA Safety Communication
According to an FDA Safety Communication, the agency is aware of two newly published studies that evaluated the risk of DVT in women who use birth control pills that contain drospirenone. The two recently published studies looked at whether there is a higher risk of blood clots in women taking birth control pills containing the progestin drospirenone when compared to similar women taking birth control pills containing a different progestin called levonorgestrel. These two new studies reported that there is a greater risk of DVT associated with birth control pills that contain drospirenone. Unfortunately, the presence of a severe DVT may lead to the development of several life-threatening complications..
Other Fourth Generation Contraceptives
The following fourth generation contraceptives contain drospirenone and may also significantly increase the risk of severe, life-threatening complications:
- Yasmin
- Gianvi
- Yaz
- Beyaz
- Safyral
- Loryna
Do I Have an Ocella Deep Vein Thrombosis Lawsuit?
The trial lawyers at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP have decades of experience navigating through complex legislative and regulatory issues and litigating high stakes cases all over the nation. Our law firm focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in Ocella deep vein thrombosis lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one has suffered from DVT after taking Ocella, you should contact our lawyers immediately by clicking the link below or calling toll free 1-(949) 557-5800. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.