At the end of last week, European regulators announced an investigation into the Diane-35 pill, an acne treatment and contraceptive, to assess if its benefits balance its risks.
Suspended in France
Two weeks ago, France pulled Diane-35 from shelves after four women died from blood clots over the past 25 years. Yesterday, it emerged that a young, healthy woman in the Netherlands also died earlier this year from thrombosis linked to the pill.
Thrombosis Risks
Thrombosis is a rare but serious side effect of hormonal contraceptives like Diane-35. While uncommon, it can be devastating.
Official Risk Assessment
A Diane-35 spokesperson confirmed that users of combination pills like this have a higher thrombosis risk than non-users, as noted in the package insert. Risks are even greater during pregnancy, and cases occur without pill use too.
Expert Advice
The Medicines Evaluation Board (MEB), which evaluates medicine safety in the Netherlands, advises current Diane-35 users not to stop abruptly. Consult your doctor if concerned.
