Yasmin (birth control pills): uses, side effects and price

This contraceptive drug is used in many countries, and can generate serious side effects.

Sex is an important part of our lives, being much more than mere intercourse and representing one of the greatest physical and sensory pleasures you can enjoy. Although throughout history it has been tabooed and censored, fortunately with the passing of time we have been able to see how sensuality and sexuality have become more and more naturalized in recent decades, being the enjoyment of this element something sought after and desired on a regular basis nowadays.

However, unprotected sex can have consequences: From the possibility of becoming infected with a sexually transmitted disease to the arrival of an unwanted pregnancy.. This is why prophylaxis is very important, using products such as condoms in order to eliminate or reduce as much as possible any risk.

With regard to the possibility of pregnancy, there is also another type of product commonly used by women (for this purpose as well as others): oral contraceptives. These are drugs that, through their action in the body, are intended to prevent pregnancy. One of them is Yasminwhich we are going to talk about in this article.

What is Yasmin and how does it work?

Yasmin is the brand name of a type of brand name of a type of reversible contraceptive developed by Bayer, which developed by Bayer, which works by administering hormones into the body of the user. Specifically, we are dealing with a combined hormonal contraceptive, which are characterized by being composed of more than one active ingredient that has an effect on the body.

It is a relatively common drug that is sold in the form of film-coated tablets, each package in its most common presentation containing a total of 21 tablets, which must be taken daily at the same time each day. Once they are finished, a week's rest should be allowed to pass (at which time menstruation should occur), after which, even if menstruation has not ended, the next package should be started.

Its mechanism of action is based on the introduction of hormones into the body.The mechanism of action is based on the introduction of hormones into the body, specifically two of them: drospirenone (3 mg per pill) and ethinylestradiol (0.03 mg per pill).

The first of these is a type of progestin, a synthetic substance similar to progesterone, which helps to regulate the menstrual cycle (and in pregnancy, to protect and maintain the gestational state) and has an anti-androgenic and antimineralocorticoid effect.

Ethinylestradiol is a type of estrogen which on its own is useful to help control climacteric symptoms or the development of sexual characteristics, but which in combination with the previous one serves as a contraceptive by not allowing ovulation to occur while modifying the endometrium and increasing the density of the vaginal fluid.

Pricing

Yasmin is marketed in a large number of countrieswith a price that can vary greatly depending on the locality. For example, in Spain its average price in the aforementioned presentation ranges between 14.85 € and 16.95 €, while in Colombia it can reach 60,500 pesos (although its price will soon be reduced) and in Mexico it can be found for 230-244.50 pesos.

However, due to the fact that despite its effectiveness it has also been observed that its consumption can generate important side effects and has even been associated with deaths due to thrombosis, in countries where it was initially distributed it has currently ceased to be prescribed, such as Holland or the United Kingdom.

Main indications

Yasmin is, as we have said, a contraceptive, as such, its most common indication is to prevent pregnancy.. In this sense it is a highly effective drug, although it should be borne in mind that it does not have any type of action and does not prevent the possibility of sexually transmitted infections.

However, although it is not indicated on the package insert, it is common for some doctors to prescribe it to treat menstrual cycle disorders such as irregularities or excessive bleeding, as well as in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome.

Finally, it has also been used in the treatment of acne or sometimes in premenstrual dysphoric disorder, although these effects are usually secondary to its contraceptive use.

Side effects and risks

As mentioned above, Yasmin can be an effective contraceptive, but the truth is that its use also implies the possibility of side effects.

As the most common side effects we can observe that taking this drug is associated with headaches, gastrointestinal discomfort, weight gain, alterations in Blood pressure, etc.It can also cause menstrual disturbances (intermenstrual bleeding) or pain in areas such as the breasts or abdomen, depressive mood disturbances or vaginal yeast infection. It can also elevate the levels of potassium in the blood.

There may also be alterations in libido, skin rashes, fluid retention, weight changes, itching, asthma, galactorrhea or hearing difficulties.

But undoubtedly one of the most serious risks and possible side effects is the fact that the use of Yasmin increases the risk of thrombosis and thromboembolism, in which clots form in the blood.in which blood clots are formed that can clog arteries and veins (something that, as we have mentioned above, has generated debate regarding its level of danger and legal proceedings against the manufacturer due to the existence of severe cases and even deaths). This risk is highest during the first year of treatment or when returning to treatment after stopping.

Contraindications

Yasmin is a potent drug that can generate relevant side effects, and that can be especially dangerous for certain sectors of the population who are going to have it contraindicated.

To begin with, and taking into account the fact that it increases the risk of thrombi, it is totally contraindicated in those who have or have had any type of thrombosis. people who have or have had some type of thrombus or embolism in the past, or who have a higher risk of thrombus or embolism or who have a higher than usual risk of suffering them.

It should also not be taken by people who have suffered heart attacks, angina pectoris or stroke, or who suffer from any blood coagulation disorder. Diabeticsespecially if there are lesions in blood vessels, are also contraindicated. Likewise, those who have or have had liver, breast or genital cancer, vaginal bleeding of unknown cause or renal or hepatic insufficiency should avoid taking it.

In addition, people who are allergic to any of its components should not take Yasmine. It should not be taken during pregnancy and is not recommended during lactation. Finally, its consumption is contraindicated with alcohol, tobacco and other drugs, and in case of taking other medications should be carefully consulted with the doctor.

Bibliographic references:

• Vidal Vademecum Spain. (2014). YASMIN film-coated comp. 3/0.03 mg. [Online]. Available at: https://www.vademecum.es/medicamento-yasmin_prospecto_63576.