Yaz

Smoking cigarettes while using Yaz can significantly raise your risk for blood clots. These blood clots can lead to more serious problems, such as heart attack and stroke. The risk is greater if you're over 35 years old and have a history of smoking cigarettes. If you smoke, talk with your gynecologist about safer birth control alternatives.

Yaz can raise the risk of serious blood clots because it contains ethinyl estradiol (an estrogen). Higher estrogen levels can lead to more blood proteins that stimulate clot formation. Some studies also suggest that birth control pills with drospirenone, like Yaz, might have a higher risk of blood clots compared to pills with levonorgestrel or other progestins. These clots can be life-threatening and can form anywhere in your body. Get medical attention right away if you have any signs or symptoms of a blood clot:

Yaz contains drospirenone, which can cause high levels of potassium in some people. Taking Yaz with medications that raise potassium levels like ACE inhibitors, potassium-sparing diuretics, or potassium supplements can put you more at risk. Your gynecologist might monitor your potassium levels during your first cycle of Yaz and periodically while you're taking it. Contact your health care team if you experience signs of high potassium like nausea, irregular heartbeat, or muscle weakness.

Study results are mixed, but Yaz and other combined hormonal birth control pills might raise your risk for breast and cervical cancer.

Don't use Yaz if you have liver problems, such as hepatitis, severe cirrhosis, or liver tumors. Although rare, this medication can raise your risk of benign liver tumors. If you notice signs of liver problems, stop using Yaz and talk to your gynecologist about other birth control options. Signs of liver problems include jaundice (yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes), fever, tiredness, loss of appetite, or dark urine..

Some studies suggest that Yaz can raise the risk of gallbladder disease since more progestin and estrogen can lead to higher chance of gallstones. Although the risk is low, talk to your gynecologist if you have a history of gallbladder disease before starting this medication.

Yaz can raise your blood pressure. The risk is higher if you're older and have been using birth control for a long time. If you have a history of high blood pressure that's well-controlled, your prescriber might monitor you while you use Yaz. If you have concerns, talk with them about the risks and benefits of using this medication.

Yaz can raise your blood sugar and triglycerides levels. If you have prediabetes or diabetes, your prescriber will likely monitor your blood sugar while you take this medication. High triglycerides can lead to a higher risk of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). Speak with your gynecologist before starting Yaz if you have a history of high blood sugar or triglycerides. They might suggest a different birth control option or monitor your lab work more closely while you're using this medication.

Let your gynecologist know if you experience new or worsening migraines or headaches while using Yaz. If you develop frequent, severe, or new headaches, you might need to stop the medication.

People who take Yaz can sometimes experience irregular bleeding and spotting, especially during the first 3 months of taking this medication. Irregular bleeding can vary from slight staining to bleeding similar to a regular period. This problem is often temporary, so continue taking your medication as directed. If your bleeding doesn't stop, becomes heavier, or you miss a period after the initial bleeding, let your gynecologist know. Your gynecologist can perform blood tests to rule out pregnancy or other potential causes for bleeding.

If you have a history of depression, your prescriber will monitor you while using Yaz. If your depression gets worse or becomes serious, they might stop the medication. Let your prescriber know if you experience mood changes, sadness, or loss of interest in activities while taking this medication.