Birth control patch lawsuits mount, yet sales continue

By Austin Kirk
Posted November 22, 2006

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Serious injuries, including several deaths of women as young as 14, have been linked to the Ortho Evra birth control patch.  As a result of the Ortho Evra dangers, birth control patch lawsuits have been filed nationwide against the manufacturer.  It has been estimated that over 1000 lawsuits have been filed, and thousands of additional claims are yet to be filed.

>>MORE INFORMATION: Birth Control Patch Side Effects

Despite continuing reports of Ortho Evra users suffering blood clots, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolyism, heart attacks and strokes, sales of the Ortho Evra birth control patch continue.  The manufacturer has argued that the potentially fatal side effects are an acceptable risk

>>RECENT POST: Birth control patch benefits compared to dangers

The manufacturer of the birth control patch, Johnson and Johnson’s Ortho-McNeill Pharmaceutical, was aware of the Ortho Evra dangers before they ever placed the product on the market.  During clinical trials, it has been reported that several women developed blood clots in the lungs, which is normally an extremely rare occurrence for young women. Since the patch has been on the market, the makers have failed to properly warn users and the medical community of the dangers associated with its use.  It was not until 2005 that a warning was added regarding the increased estrogen delivery, and the increased risk of blood clots was not added to the label until September 2006.  However, many experts believe that even the current warning does not do enough to alert users to the risks, and there have been indications that it may be necessary to withdraw the patch from the market to protect consumers.

>>RECENT POST: Ortho Evra warning label indicates increased risk of blood clots

Several birth control patch lawsuits have been reportedly settled confidentially by the manufacturer.  As long as sales continue, the pharmaceutical company apparently feels that it is a good business decision to continue causing serious and potentially fatal injuries.  The settlements which must be paid to women left with life altering injuries, is a cost of doing business for the manufacturer.  This is another example of a corporation placing profits above the safety of their constomers.

Every day that Ortho Evra sales continue, the risk of injury continues.  The birth control patch lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk are continuing to investigate new claims for users who have suffered blood clots, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolyism, heart attacks and strokes.

If you, a friend or family member believe you may have a claim, request a free claim evaluation.