Regulators in South Africa have recalled a batch of the preferred Yaz Plus contraceptive tablet, after a packaging mix-up this means that the birth control may well be probably useless.
Producer Bayer Ltd mentioned girls the use of drugs from the affected batch will have to prevent in an instant and search clinical recommendation.
A packaging mix-up resulted in numerous blister packs wearing 24 inactive drugs, as an alternative of 24 hormone-containing lively drugs.
The problem affected just a restricted collection of packets in a particular batch labelled WEW96J, expiring in March 2026
The faulty batch has been recalled by means of Bayer, in session with South Africa Well being Merchandise Regulatory Company, with the corporate stressing the “root purpose” of the mix-up were recognized and handled.
A normal pack of Yaz Plus contraceptives comprises 24 lively drugs containing hormones, that are purple in color, adopted by means of 4 hormone-free, inactive drugs, that are gentle orange in color.
Within the recalled batch, numerous packs as an alternative carried 24 hormone-free inactive drugs and most effective 4 lively hormone drugs.
The fear is {that a} girl may well be in danger of turning into pregnant having taken inactive drugs believing she was once taking efficient hormonal birth control.
Bayer Ltd’s recall understand says: “Whilst just a restricted collection of packs from the respective batch is affected, as a precautionary measure, no drugs from those packs will likely be used till you will have consulted your healthcare practitioner, as they are going to probably no longer give you the contraceptive coverage you are expecting.”
Somebody who has bought a packet of drugs belonging to the stipulated batch is suggested to go back the drugs to pharmacies for a alternative or refund.
Healthcare pros, hospitals, pharmacies, docs, nurses and wholesalers who’ve packets of the affected batch will have to additionally go back them.
In a remark, Bayer Ltd mentioned “the basis purpose for the mix-up of drugs within the packaging has been recognized and corrective measures had been applied”.
The incident is restricted to just one batch and no different batches are affected, the corporate mentioned.
The corporate has arrange a helpline for folks with any longer questions.