Birth Control Pills Recalled Nationwide Due To Packaging Error

NEW YORK, NY — Federal health officials have issued a nationwide recall of a birth control tablet over a packaging error that could mistakenly lead women to not take a tablet or take a placebo. Apotex Corp. voluntarily recalled four lots of Drospirenone and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets, USP, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced Monday. The tablets were shipped to wholesalers and distributors across the country.

The packaging could have “defective blisters” with incorrect tablet arrangements or an empty “blister pocket,” the recall notice stated. The packaging error could lead to the tablets losing their effectiveness because the dosage changed.

There have been no reported pregnancies or adverse effects, the recall stated. Individuals who received the affected packages should contact their pharmacy and consult with their healthcare provider. Just as importantly, these individuals should not interrupt their therapy or use non-hormonal birth control methods.

The affected tablets can be identified by NDC numbers stated on the inner and outer cartons:

Outer: 60505-4183-3

Inner: 60505-4183-1

Affected wholesalers and distributors received a notice in the mail about the recall. Apotex, based in Weston, Florida, is arranging to have the affected tablets returned.

The pills in the inner carton are arranged as 21 active yellow tablets followed by seven white placebo pills.