Indications 

Yaz Birth Control is a contraceptive pill used to prevent unwanted pregnancy. It can be used to treat moderate acne in women who are at least 14 years old and have started having menstrual periods, and who wish to use birth control pills.  

YAZ Birth Control 24-day works by using a combination of hormones, drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol, to prevent pregnancy. YAZ suppresses the release of an egg from the ovary (ovulation). This is achieved by the hormones in the pill preventing the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland. Without the surge of these hormones, the ovary does not release an egg. 

Use and Dosage 

YAZ is taken as one pink pill daily for 24 consecutive days, followed by one white inactive pill for four days. Take the pills at around the same time each day to maintain effectiveness. 

Start taking YAZ on the first day of your period or the first Sunday after your period starts. If you are switching from a different birth control pill, you can start YAZ on the same day that a new pack of your old pills would have started. If you are switching from a different birth control method, such as a transdermal patch or vaginal ring, you should start YAZ when the next application or dose would have been due. 

If you miss a dose of YAZ, take the missed pill as soon as you remember. If you miss more than one pink active pill, you may need to use backup contraception, such as condoms, and consult your doctor. If you vomit within three hours of taking YAZ, consider it a missed dose and follow the instructions for missed pills. 

Side Effects 

Common Side Effects

• Acne 
• Bleeding or spotting between menstrual periods 
• Breast tenderness, enlargement, or discharge 
• Brown or black skin patches 
• Changes in menstrual flow 
• Constipation 
• Diarrhea 
• Gingivitis (swelling of the gum tissue) 
• Hair growth in unusual places 
• Increased or decreased appetite 
• Nausea 
• Painful or missed periods 
• Stomach cramps or bloating 
• Swelling, redness, irritation, burning, or itching of the vagina 
• Vomiting 
• Weight gain or weight loss 
• White vaginal discharge 

Serious Side Effects 

• Bulging eyes 
• Coughing up blood 
• Crushing chest pain or chest heaviness 
• Dark-colored urine 
• Depression, especially if you also have trouble sleeping, tiredness, loss of energy, or other mood changes 
• Dizziness or faintness 
• Double vision 
• Extreme tiredness, weakness, or lack of energy 
• Fever 
• Leg pain 
• Light-colored stool 
• Loss of appetite 
• Menstrual bleeding 
• Partial or complete loss of vision 
• Rash 
• Severe headache 
• Severe stomach pain 
• Severe vomiting 
• Shortness of breath 
• Speech problems 
• Swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs 
• Unusual bleeding 
• Weakness or numbness of an arm or leg 
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes 

Cautions 

• Effectiveness: Missing an active dose of YAZ can reduce its effectiveness in preventing pregnancy. Take the pills as directed and use backup contraception if you miss doses. 
• Vomiting or diarrhea: If you experience vomiting or severe diarrhea, the absorption of YAZ may be affected, potentially reducing its effectiveness. In such cases, use another form of contraception, like condoms, until you check with your healthcare provider. 
• Medication interactions: YAZ may interact with other medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking to ensure there are no potential interactions that could affect the effectiveness of YAZ or other medications. 
• Laboratory tests: If you are scheduled for any laboratory tests, inform your doctor that you are taking YAZ. Certain blood tests may be affected by birth control pills, so your healthcare provider should be aware of this. 
• Most Serious Risks: Like any hormonal birth control pill, YAZ carries some risks. The most serious risks associated with taking birth control pills include an increased risk of blood clots, stroke, heart attack, and liver problems. Discuss these risks with your healthcare provider and determine if YAZ is suitable for you based on your individual health profile.