New Warnings for Birth Control Patch

November 2005

Woman using Ortho Evra, take note—you are receiving a higher dosage of estrogen than found in most birth control pills. The announcement comes as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved an updated warning label for the contraceptive patch.

The new drug warning states that women who use the Ortho Evra birth control patch are exposed to about 60 percent more estrogen than if taking a typical birth control pill. The weekly prescription birth control patch is worn on the skin and releases an estrogen hormone into the blood stream.

Increased estrogen exposure could lead to a greater risk of blood clots. The FDA urges woman using Ortho Evra speak to their medical providers before continuing use of the patch.

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