Yaz Plus birth control recalled in SA after packaging ‘mix-up’

Pharmaceutical and biotech giant Bayer has initiated a recall of a batch of Yaz Plus contraceptive pills over a packaging mix-up that could compromise its birth control efficacy.

“In close consultation with the South African Health Products Authority (Sahpra), Bayer has initiated a Class II, Type A recall for the Yaz Plus tablets batch identified as WEW96J, with an expiry date of March 2026,” medical director for Bayer’s pharmaceuticals division Dr Naren Jairam said on Thursday.

“This measure was taken following a discovery of a packaging mix-up in a limited number of packs which could potentially compromise the product’s contraceptive efficacy.

“A formal and detailed public statement will be published in alignment with guidelines from Sahpra. This statement will provide additional information on the recall process.”

Sahpra also confirmed the recall with News24.

Further information was not immediately available.

A copy of a letter by Bayer to healthcare professionals was shared on social media on Wednesday night.

It stated that the mix-up involved a “limited number” of Yaz Plus packs that had 24 hormone-free pills, instead of the 24 actual hormone tablets used for contraception.

The hormone-free placebo pills, also known as ‘sugar’ pills or reminder pills, are meant to help you remember to take your pill every day and start your next pack on time. – News24
More to follow.

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