Women taking birth control pills reminded to return any packages for replacement if the pills are missing or look unusual

In light of continuing complaints of quality issues involving certain prescription birth control pills, Health Canada is reminding women to check their packages of birth control pills. If you notice anything unusual in the package, such as missing or damaged pills, you should return the package to the pharmacy for replacement as soon as possible. Skipping a dose because the pill is missing, or taking a damaged (for example, chipped or fragmented) pill, may increase the risk of pregnancy because less active ingredient may be taken. It is important to get a replacement package as soon as possible to avoid missing any doses.

Return your package to the pharmacy for a replacement if you see any unusual or missing pills. If you are uncertain, check with your pharmacist. Examples of unusual pills include ones with chips, jagged edges, pieces missing, or the wrong shape or colour. Check both sides of each pill before taking it as it may not be obvious from looking at the blister package that there is a problem with the pills. Do not consume an active (hormone-containing) pill if it looks unusual. If you cannot get to a pharmacy right away, take the next normal-looking active pill in the package. Do not miss an active pill as this may result in pregnancy. If you have no normal-looking active pills left, use a non-hormonal method of birth control (such as condoms, spermicidal foam or gel) until you can obtain a replacement package, and contact your health care provider for medical advice. As noted in the prescribing information, it’s important to have another kind of birth control to use as back-up if you miss pills. Packages that have no missing or unusual pills do not need to be returned. Talk to a health care professional if you have questions or concerns about your birth control product, including about missed doses and alternatives. Report adverse events to health products to Health Canada by calling toll-free at 1-866-234-2345, or by reporting online, by mail or by fax . Report complaints about health products to Health Canada by calling toll-free at 1-800-267-9675, or complete an online complaint form .