Bayer recalls Yaz Plus birth control pills due to packaging mix-up

SOUTH AFRICA- Pharmaceutical giant Bayer, in collaboration with the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA), has announced a nationwide recall of Yaz Plus birth control pills.

The recall affects a specific batch, identified as Batch WEW96J, following a packaging error discovered in some packs at retail pharmacies. 

The issue involves a mix-up in the sequence of hormone-containing and hormone-free tablets within the affected packs.

Some of the Yaz Plus packs mistakenly contained 24 light orange hormone-free tablets and only 4 pink, hormone-containing tablets.

This arrangement deviates from the correct configuration, which should have 24 pink hormone-containing tablets and 4 light orange hormone-free tablets.

This mistake compromises the contraceptive efficacy of the product, potentially leaving users without the expected protection. 

Bayer emphasized that the recall only concerns Batch WEW96J, which has an expiry date of March 2026.

The company has identified the root cause of the error and implemented corrective actions to prevent future occurrences. 

Healthcare professionals, pharmacies, and patients in possession of the affected batch have been urged to stop using the product immediately.

Bayer has also advised customers to return the packs to the pharmacy or healthcare facility where they were dispensed for a replacement or credit.

Individuals have also been encouraged to thoroughly check their Yaz Plus packs to confirm whether they belong to the affected batch. 

For those who have already used the tablets from the recalled batch, Bayer has recommended consulting a healthcare provider promptly to discuss contraceptive coverage and any related concerns.

As a precautionary measure, the company has advised users not to take any tablets from the affected packs until they have sought professional medical advice. 

While the error is limited to a small number of packs from Batch WEW96J, Bayer has taken this matter seriously to ensure the safety and well-being of its customers.

Patients have also been reminded to inspect all their Yaz Plus packs and reach out to their healthcare providers if they have any doubts or experience issues related to the product. 

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