YAZ

Generic name: Drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol

What is YAZ?

YAZ is an oral contraceptive pill that is used by women to prevent pregnancy.

What is the most important information I should know about YAZ?

Smoking cigarettes increases your risk of serious heart problems while taking birth control pills. YAZ does not protect against HIV infection and other sexually transmitted diseases.

Who should not take YAZ?

You should not take YAZ if you have kidney, liver, or adrenal disease because this could cause serious heart and health problems. Also, YAZ should not be used if you are pregnant or think you may become pregnant. If you have a history of heart problems, blood clots, chest pain, unexplained vaginal bleeding, jaundice, diabetes, or high blood pressure, you should not use this type of contraception. If you are allergic to any of the ingredients in YAZ, do not begin using this contraception.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of YAZ?

Mention all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are using, to prevent a potential interaction with YAZ. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, and be sure to inform your doctor if you smoke, recently had a baby or miscarriage, or are breastfeeding.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Take one pink "active" pill per day for 24 days, then 1 white "reminder" pill daily for 4 days. By this time the pack of YAZ should be completed.

Pediatric Use: Safety and efficacy of YAZ has been established in women of reproductive age. Safety and efficacy are expected to be the same for postpubertal adolescents under the age of 16 and for users 16 years and older.

How should I take YAZ?

You can take YAZ without regard to meals. You should take the pills at the same time every day, so pick a time that is most convenient to you.

What should I avoid while taking YAZ?

Avoid smoking while on YAZ.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with YAZ?

If YAZ is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining this medication with any of the following: ACE inhibitors (captopril, enalapril, lisinopril, and others), aldosterone antagonists, angiotensin-II receptor antagonists (Cozaar, Diovan, Avapro, and others), heparin, NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naprosyn, and others), potassium-sparing diuretics (spironolactone and others), and potassium supplementation.

What are the possible side effects of YAZ?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: nausea,vomiting,gastrointestinal symptoms (such as abdominal cramps and bloating),breakthrough bleeding, spotting,change in menstrual flow, amenorrhea, temporary infertility after discontinuation of treatment, edema, melasma that may persist, breast changes (tenderness, enlargement, secretion),change in weight or appetite, migraine, rash (allergic), mood changes (including depression)

An increased risk of the following serious adverse reactions has been associated with the use of oral contraceptives: thrombophlebitis, arterial thromboembolism, pulmonary embolism, myocardial infarction, cerebral thrombosis, hypertension, gallbladder disease, hepatic adenomas, benign liver tumor

Can I receive YAZ if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy category X. Estrogens and progestins should not be used during pregnancy. Small amounts of oral contraceptive steroids have been identified in the milk of nursing mothers, and a few adverse effects on the child have been reported, including jaundice and breast enlargement.

What should I do if I miss a dose of YAZ?

If you miss a pink "active" pill, take it as soon as you remember, then continue on your regular schedule. This may mean taking 2 pills in one day.

For additional information, see "Detailed Patient Labeling."

How should I store YAZ?

Store at room temperature.