Ortho Evra Facts
Ortho Evra FAQ's
How is Ortho Evra used?
It is the first transdermal (skin) patch approved by the FDA for birth control.
How does the Ortho Evra birth control patch work?
The patch prevents pregnancy by releasing norelgestromin (a progestin hormone) and ethinyl estradiol (an estrogen hormone) through the skin into the blood stream.
What does the patch look like?
The patch is a one-and-three-quarter inch square with three layers. The adhesive layer contains embedded hormones that are slowly released into the skin.
Where on their skin do patients apply the patch?
The instructions direct women to apply the Ortho Evra patch to the lower abdomen, thigh, buttocks or upper body, but not to the breasts.
How long do patients wear the patch?
The instructions say to wear the Ortho Evra patch continuously for one week and replace it with a new patch on the same day of the week for a total of three weeks. The patient does not wear a patch during fourth week, during which time she has a menstrual period.
When did the FDA approve Ortho Evra?
In November of 2001, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the Ortho Evra birth control patch, manufactured by Ortho McNeil, a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson.
How many women use Ortho Evra?
Since its approval, more than four million women have used the Ortho Evra patch.
Has the patch been associated with dangerous side effects?
Yes, it has been associated with blood clot, Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), heart attack, stroke, pulmonary embolism and even death. At the FDA's request, Ortho McNeil issued a warning in November 2005 to patients that the Ortho Evra patch causes significant estrogen exposure, and may bring greater risks of serious cardiovascular events including the ones listed above.
Have any deaths been linked to the patch's use?
Unfortunately, yes. Many have been reported, beginning with the April 2004 death of an 18-year-old New York fashion student who was using the Ortho Evra patch. The Medical Examiner's Office attributed the woman's death to a blood clot. Since that time, more than one dozen additional deaths have been associated with the Ortho Evra patch.
If I, or someone I know, experienced health problems after using the Ortho Evra patch, should I contact an attorney?
Yes, it may be important for you or the person affected to contact a licensed attorney to evaluate your case. There may be a Statute of Limitations or time constraint that affects your ability to sue.
What costs are associated with an attorney evaluation?
None! A lawyer associated with this Web site will evaluate your case free of charge. In the event an attorney familiar with Ortho Evra litigation agrees to handle your case, you will owe no attorneys fees unless an attorney recovers money for you.
How do I submit my case for a free evaluation?
Simply click on Free Case Evaluation and complete the online intake form. An attorney will evaluate your case and respond to you via email.
More Background on Ortho Evra
Both birth control pills and patches are categorized as hormonal contraceptives. Similar to birth control pills, the Ortho Evra patch is effective for prevention of pregnancy when used as directed. Ortho Evra's risks are also similar to those of birth control pills, including blood clot, stroke, heart attack and pulmonary embolism. According to the label, cigarette smoking also increases the risk of serious cardiovascular side effects when used with hormonal contraceptives.
