The safety and protection of consumers and patients must be the focal point of modern medicine. Too often than not, drugs are approved for national use, only to be recalled weeks or months later due to adverse side effects and symptoms that went unnoticed or repressed from public knowledge. By providing FDA alerts, drug interactions and up to date information about prescription and over the counter medications, we can ensure an environment where patients have the best knowledge on their medical treatment and health.
Drospirenone, known as “Yaz,” was approved by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) on March 16, 2006 as an oral contraceptive to prevent against pregnancy, treat acne and treat the symptoms associated with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). The medication contains the hormone estrogen and a type of progestin called drospirenone to prevent ovulation.
When the ovulation process does not occur, or when a mature follicle breaks up, a form of an ovarian cyst may arise known as a “follicular cyst.” This cyst can sometimes reach two or more inches in diameter, but will normally disappear by itself after only a few months. Although most ovarian cysts are no so uncommon for women and usually do not warrant significant concern, it can cause severe discomfort and for others, may require treatment. There are several instances where it may lead to cancer.
Research has indicated the prolonged use of Yaz may increase the chances of developing an ovarian cyst. Women should speak to doctors about any cyst they have, especially if they are experiencing pain in the pelvic region.
Yaz Side Effects are increased with age and the amount of time the drug is taken. Women over the age of 35 who smoke 15 or more cigarettes daily have their chances of developing the following side effects: stroke, blood clot and heart attack. Research has shown extreme side effects may include increased chances of developing certain types of cancers including: Liver cancer, liver tumors, liver bleeding and breast cancer.
Yaz was formulated to avoid pregnancy by preventing ovulation, the process that occurs in women when a mature egg is released from the ovary. The drug also may treat moderate acne in women 14 years of age or older, who have already experienced their first menstrual cycle and elected to use birth control as a contraceptive. PMDD symptoms may also be treated by Yaz. Symptoms associated with PMDD include: depression, anxiety, irritability, breast tenderness, joint or muscle pain, headache, weight gain and lethargy. There are many different methods to treat PMDD and elected birth control.
A Black Box warning currently exists for Yaz consumers of the risk of cardiovascular side effects that may occur in patients who smoke while taking the medication.
Several documented side effects associated with Yaz and an overdose include nausea, vomiting or vaginal bleeding. Side effects associated with a Yaz overdose are typically limited to nausea, vomiting or vaginal bleeding. Seek immediate medical attention following an overdose.
Advice
The body cannot effectively fight cancer without the right balance of nutrients. In addition, malnutrition causes the body to be vulnerable to infection. Many cancer patients do not pass away from the cancer itself, but rather a medical condition stemming from the body’s weakened condition.
By consulting your physician(s) and doing individual research, you can obtain the best method of treatment that is right for you personally. Sometimes, prescription of over the counter medications can provide the best treatment, other times they may not.
Eating a well balanced diet is vital in preventing chronic conditions and other health problems. Medical experts suggest eating simple organic foods; avoid junk foods; fried foods and make sure to eat the recommended servings of fruits and vegetables every day.