Hyperkalemia | Yaz Yasmin Birth Control

Library Articles | October 17, 2017

If this article sounds similar to a recent experience that you or a loved one have suffered from, please don’t hesitate to contact us online or call 859-578-4444 to schedule a free consultation!

Symptoms of Hyperkalemia

Potassium is an essential nutrient in the body that contributes to a normal water balance and muscle growth, as well as a healthy nervous system and brain function. However, when the potassium levels are too high, it can lead to detrimental health problems. Too much potassium is known as hyperkalemia, which can be dangerous.Recently, cases have been coming forward regarding serious health issues that are believed to be caused by Yaz and Yasmin birth control.These forms of birth control have an ingredient that is unique to most oral contraceptives on the market. This ingredient, drospirenone, is believed to have the potential to significantly increase the potassium level in the body.

Hyperkalemia often does not have symptoms, which is especially frightening since it can be fatal. Occasionally, people suffering from this condition will experience the following:

Nausea
Slow, weak or absent pulse
Irregular heartbeat
Weakness
Change in breathing pattern

If Yaz or Yasmin birth control pills cause the potassium level to become too high, there is a chance that it can result in heart arrhythmia and cardiac arrest, both being potentially deadly conditions. Hyperkalemia has also been known to cause changes in nerve and/or muscle control.

When the potassium is very high in the body, emergency treatment is required, which will focus on protecting the body from the effects of hyperkalemia. Some of the treatments include cation-exchange resin medications, dialysis, water pills, intravenous calcium, intravenous glucose and insulin and sodium bicarbonate.

If you have taken Yaz or Yasmin and have suffered serious side effects, you may be entitled to compensation. You should contact an experienced Louisville personal injury lawyer at the law firm of Hendy Johnson Vaughn Emery at (859) 578-4444 or (888) 606-5297 for a free legal consultation. We have extensive experience litigating medical products cases and can help you.