Frequently Asked Questions

• How is ortho Evra ("the patch") different from the contraceptive pill ("the pill")?
• Is Ortho Evra still on the market?
• What types of serious injuries are associated with the patch?
• What should I do if I have suffered an injury due to Ortho Evra? What if a family memeber has suffered an injury? 
• What are my options for pursuing a claim for Ortho Evra related injuries sustained by myself or a loved one?

How is Ortho Evra (“the patch”) different from a contraceptive pill (“the pill”)?

Unlike the pill, which is traditionally taken once a day by mouth, the Ortho Evra patch is a medicated patch placed directly on a woman’s body.  The patch is used in four week cycles and is changed every week for three weeks and no patch is worn the fourth week. 

A woman who uses the patch can be exposed to 60% more estrogen than users of the birth control pill with 35mg of estrogen.  It is this increased exposure to estrogen that is believed to be responsible for the increased incidence of serious injury when using the patch versus the pill.  This increased exposure to estrogen was reflected in the recent warning label changes for Ortho Evra.

Is Ortho Evra still on the market?

Yes, Ortho Evra has remained on the market despite its safety coming under scrutiny.  The FDA has required changes in the Ortho Evra warning label to reflect recent concerns regarding the patch’s’ safety.

What types of serious injuries are associated with the patch?

Serious injuries associated with the Ortho Evra patch include blood clots, pulmonary embolism (PE), deep venous thrombosis (DVT), stroke, heart attack, coma and death. 

What should I do if I believe I have suffered an injury related to Ortho Evra? What if I have a friend or family member in this situation?

The very first step for anyone who believes they may have an injury related to Ortho Evra is to seek medical attention. Talk to your doctor about your concerns and get the treatment you need as soon as possible.

What are my options for pursuing a claim for Ortho Evra related injuries sustained by myself or a loved one?

We encourage you to put your medical needs first, before you consider any legal action against the manufacturers of Ortho Evra.

If you wish to file a claim, we encourage you to contact an attorney, such as the Simmons firm, that is experienced in litigating complex pharmaceutical cases. If you would like a free legal consultation with the Simmons firm, please contact us.

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