NuvaRing Lawsuit
Women who used the vaginal ring called the “NuvaRing” to prevent pregnancy may be at a higher risk for NuvaRing side effects like blood clots, stroke or heart attack, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and in rare cases, sudden death. Already hundreds of women have filed a Nuva Ring lawsuit, seeking compensation for injuries they allegedly sustained because of the birth control device.
What Is The NuvaRing?
The NuvaRing is a birth control device inserted into a woman’s vagina once a month that gradually releases low-dose hormones to prevent pregnancy. The device was originally manufactured by Organon, a Dutch pharmaceutical company that was later purchased by Schering Plough, who merged with Merck & Co. in 2009 and are now known under the name Merck & Co., Inc. The device was marketed as a more convenient alternative to “the pill,” because a woman didn’t have to remember to take it every day.
What Are The Potential NuvaRing Side Effects?
Like most medications, the NuvaRing comes with a risk of some mild NuvaRing side effects like nausea, weight gain, headache, and yeast infections. Of more serious concern, however, are the seemingly higher risks of blood clots and related health issues, which seem to be more likely with NuvaRing than older forms of contraception.
The NuvaRing delivers two synthetic hormones into the bloodstream: 1) etonogestrel (a progestin) and 2) ethinyl estradiol (an estrogen). These hormones prevent ovulation and minimize sperm penetration. The progestin, etonogestrel, is an active metabolite of desogestrel, a so-called “third generation” progestin created to help reduce unwanted side effects like breakthrough bleeding or spotting, weight gain, and acne. Some studies have shown these third-generation contraceptives to be associated with a higher risk of serious NuvaRing side effects like deep vein thrombosis, which can lead to a blood clot in the lung (pulmonary embolism).
FDA Requires NuvaRing Warnings
The FDA approved NuvaRing for use as a contraceptive device in October 2001, but in 2005 and again in 2008 worked with Merck to update the NuvaRing warnings to include information about the risks of NuvaRing side effects. These warnings include precautions for women who have a history of heart disease, blood clots, or hypertension; who experience irregular bleeding associated with the use of the NuvaRing; and who may experience interactions with other drugs.
When A Woman May Want To Hire A NuvaRing Lawyer
Women who experience serious NuvaRing side effects like blood clots, heart attack, stroke, deep vein thrombosis, or pulmonary embolism while taking NuvaRing may want to consider a consultation with a NuvaRing lawyer. These professionals work on behalf of women injured as a result of using the NuvaRing and can help guide each woman in a review of her particular case.
Filing A NuvaRing Lawsuit
Starting as early as 2007, women have filed a NuvaRing lawsuit because of injuries sustained while using the contraceptive device. As of 2012, nearly 1,000 cases have been filed around the country, with each NuvaRing lawyer fighting on behalf of his or her client to hold Organon and Merck responsible for failing to thoroughly test their product before putting in on the market, and for failing to adequately warn physicians and women of the risks of NuvaRing side effects.
If you or a loved one has been injured by NuvaRing, you may be eligible for a NuvaRing lawsuit. Contact Chaffin Luhana LLP today for a confidential case evaluation at 1-888-316-2311.