What is Yaz?

Yaz is a combination medication combining progesterone (drospirenone) and estrogen (ethinyl estradiol) which is used as a birth control pill preventing ovulation. As well as being used as a contraception, Yaz can also be used to treat acne in females over 14 who have started their menstrual periods and to treat the symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) including anxiety, depression and others.

How does Yaz work?

Yaz works by preventing the release of an egg during your menstrual cycle. Yaz also causes changes to your cervical mucus and uterine lining which can make it more difficult for sperm to reach the uterus and harder for a fertilized egg to attach to the uterus.

Always read the patient information and instructions carefully before using this medication.

• Yaz is an oral medication which can be taken with or without food.
• It is typically prescribed to be taken once daily and should be taken at the same time each day, 24 hours apart. Taking Yaz after your evening meal or at bedtime can help to decrease nausea and stomach upset.
• You start with the first tablet in the pack and continue to take Yaz in the correct order without skipping any doses. Pregnancy is more likely to occur if you miss pills, take your pill at a different time to usual or start a pack late.
• Your pack should contain 24 pills containing active medication and 4 reminder pills which do not contain hormones. Take an active pill once daily for 24 days and then take your reminder pills once daily for 4 days. You should have your period within three days after taking the last active tablet. After taking your last reminder pill, start a new pack the next day.

Make sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you have any drug allergies.
• Which other prescription and non-prescription medications you currently take.
• Your medical history especially of adrenal gland problems, stroke, blood clots, high blood pressure, abnormal breast exams, cancer, blood clotting disorders, diabetes, severe migraines, heart problems, jaundice, unexplained vaginal bleeding, high cholesterol, depression, swelling, gallbladder problems and obesity.
• Your personal and family medical history of angioedema.
• If you have just had or will be having surgery as this may increase your risk of blood clots and you may need to take precautions.
• If you will be confined to a bed or chair for a sustained period of time such as on a long plane flight as this may increase your risk of blood clots and you may need to take precautions.

Also be aware that:

• If you have diabetes, Yaz may affect your blood sugar. Your doctor may adjust your diabetes medication or program.
• Yaz may increase your potassium levels. Ask a doctor before using potassium supplements.
• This medication can cause dark or blotchy areas on your face and skin which can be worsened by sunlight. You should limit your time in the sun and wear sunscreen and protective clothing. Avoid tanning booths and sunlamps.
• If you wear contact lenses or are nearsighted, you may develop vision problems.
• It may take you longer to become pregnant after stopping this medication.
• Yaz should not be used during pregnancy or within 3 months of giving birth or having a pregnancy loss.

Common Yaz side effects may include but are not limited to:

• Nausea or vomiting.
• Tenderness of the breasts.
• Headaches, tiredness, mood changes or feeling irritable.
• Weight gain.
• Pigmentation changes or darkening skin.
• Changes in your menstrual period or a decreased sex drive.

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following Yaz side effects:

• Sudden severe headache, slurred speech, vision or balance problems, sudden weakness or numbness especially on one side of the body.
• Pain, warmth or swelling in one both legs.
• Sudden coughing, rapid breathing or shortness of breath.
• Vision changes such as blurred vision or vision loss.
• Coughing up blood.
• Chest pain or pressure, nausea, sweating or a pain spreading to your jaw or shoulder.
• Signs of liver problems such as loss of appetite, tiredness, dark urine, clay-colored stools, upper stomach pain or jaundice.
• Signs of increased blood pressure such as blurred vision, severe headaches or a pounding in your neck or ears.
• Swelling in your hands, feet or ankles.
• Changes in the pattern or severity of migraines.
• Signs of depression such as sleep problems, mood changes, tiredness or weakness.

Q: Why do I have 28 pills when the pack size says 24?

A: Your pack should contain 24 pills containing active medication and 4 reminder pills which do not contain hormones. Take an active pill once daily for 24 days and then take your reminder pills once daily for 4 days. You should have your period within three days after taking the last active tablet. After taking your last reminder pill, start a new pack the next day.

Q: What should I avoid while taking Yaz?

A: You should not smoke while taking Yaz, especially if you are older than 35.