It’s time to check your birth control pills, ladies! On November 2nd, the FDA released a recall for two different types of birth control pills made by the pharmaceutical manufacturer, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. According to the agency, Janssen is conducting the voluntary recall because the products are lacking appropriate instructions for the Veridate® dispenser. 

Although, both the FDA and Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. are quick to point out that the efficacy of the birth control pills remains uncompromised, the faulty instructions, which direct women to take the pills in the wrong order, could lead to unintended pregnancies.

The affected lots are as follows:

ORTHO-NOVUM® 1/35 NDC Number (carton): 50458-176-06

NDC Number (pouch): 50458-176-28 Lot Number: 18BM114 Expiration Date: March 2020

ORTHO-NOVUM® 7/7/7 NDC Number (carton): 50458-178-06

NDC Number (pouch): 50458-178-28 Lot Number: 18CM120 Expiration Date: March 2020

ORTHO-NOVUM® 7/7/7 NDC Number (carton): 50458-178-12

NDC Number (pouch): 50458-178-12 Lot Number: 18BM110 Expiration Date: March 2020

The FDA says that, if women follow the instructions attached to these specific lots, they will end up taking the “active” pills instead of the “inactive” pills, and vice-versa. As mentioned, this could lead to unintended pregnancy and even breakthrough bleeding.

If you received an affected lot, there are a few ways you can proceed. Firstly, you can access the correct instructions via the Janssen website. There, you will be given more info on how to properly take the product. Further questions regarding the product and the recall can be made to the company at 1-800-526-7736 (1-800-JANSSEN), Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm ET. 

Of course, if you believe that you have suffered an unintended pregnancy or any other problems associated with taking the product as prescribed by the faulty instructions, make an appointment with your doctor.

What are your thoughts on this birth control recall? Did you receive the incorrect instructions? If so, what do you plan on doing? Do you have any tips for women considering the birth control pill?