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Understanding the recall of Seasonique birth control pills
Health Canada has recently issued a significant recall for a specific lot of Seasonique birth control pills, highlighting a packaging error that has left two pills missing. This defect poses a serious risk of unintended pregnancy for users, prompting the health agency to take immediate action.
The recall was announced on a Friday, with Health Canada urging individuals not to discontinue their birth control regimen or skip doses if they find pills missing from their pack.
In the event of a missing pill, Health Canada advises users to continue taking the next pill in the prescribed order as indicated on the packaging.
This guidance is crucial for maintaining the effectiveness of the contraceptive method until a replacement or alternative can be obtained from a pharmacy. The agency emphasizes that users should not panic but should seek a solution promptly to avoid any potential health risks.
Details of the Seasonique product and its usage
Manufactured by Teva Canada Ltd., Seasonique is designed for extended-cycle use, providing a total of 91 days of birth control. Each pack contains 84 light blue-green pills, which include 0.15 mg of levonorgestrel and 0.03 mg of ethinyl estradiol, followed by seven yellow pills that contain 0.01 mg of ethinyl estradiol.
Typically, users experience only four menstrual periods a year, with bleeding expected during the yellow pill phase. However, the recent complaint specifically involved the absence of two active light blue-green pills, which are critical for maintaining hormonal balance and preventing pregnancy.
Health Canada has reiterated the importance of adhering to the prescribed pill schedule. Missing or skipping active pills can significantly increase the risk of pregnancy and may lead to irregular bleeding or spotting. Therefore, it is essential for users to remain vigilant and proactive in managing their birth control.
Next steps for affected users
As the situation unfolds, Health Canada is closely monitoring the recall and the investigation into the manufacturing process by Teva Canada. The agency is committed to ensuring that any new health risks are communicated to the public promptly. Users who have concerns or questions regarding their birth control should not hesitate to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice. Additionally, Teva Canada can be contacted directly at 1-800-268-4127 or via email at [email protected] for further assistance.
