Chicago Unsafe Birth Control Lawsuit Attorneys
Did unsafe birth control cause you to sustain an injury or illness?
Our experienced unsafe birth control lawsuit attorneys at Ankin Law can help. With decades of experience holding large corporations accountable for unsafe products, our attorneys are dedicated to securing you a settlement that represents the true cost of your losses.
Unsafe birth control products, such as Yaz and Yasmin, NuvaRing, intrauterine devices, and other hormonal contraceptives have been identified as a contributing factor in the development of blood clots, stroke, heart attack and cardiovascular concerns, and other adverse health conditions. If you’ve suffered at the hands of a negligent medication manufacturer, you have the right to seek financial recovery.
Our attorneys have fought for victims like you since 1940. When Ankin Law represents your case, you get:
- 24/7 Access to Your Legal Team
- Over 100 years of combined experience
- A FREE case review to map your best path forward
- NO fees unless we win
The use of unsafe birth control can have serious consequences. Call Ankin Law to seek justice for your losses. (312) 600-0000.
Table of Contents
Why Are Birth Control Lawsuits Being Filed?
Birth control lawsuits are being filed for a variety of reasons, primarily related to safety, efficacy, side effects, and marketing practices of contraceptive products. These lawsuits typically arise from concerns over serious health complications and misleading information provided to consumers.
Class action lawsuits have become a common avenue for addressing widespread issues with birth control products. These collective lawsuits allow large groups of people who have suffered similar harm from a particular contraceptive to band together and sue the manufacturer. This can lead to substantial settlements or judgments that hold companies accountable for the collective damages suffered by users.
Health Complications and Side Effects
Many birth control lawsuits stem from severe side effects and health complications experienced by users. For example, hormonal contraceptives, such as pills, intrauterine devices (IUDs), and implants, have been linked to increased risks of blood clots, stroke, heart attack, and other cardiovascular issues. In particular, products like Yaz, Yasmin, and NuvaRing have been associated with such risks. Lawsuits claim that manufacturers failed to adequately warn users about these dangers.
Defective Products
Some birth control methods have been found to be defective, leading to unplanned pregnancies and other issues. For instance, manufacturing defects in IUDs like Mirena have led to complications such as device migration, uterine perforation, and infections. Similarly, the Essure permanent birth control device faced numerous lawsuits due to reports of device breakage, migration, and severe pain, ultimately leading to its discontinuation.
Inadequate Warnings and Misrepresentation
Lawsuits argue that pharmaceutical companies did not provide sufficient warnings about the risks associated with their products. In some cases, companies are accused of downplaying side effects or not fully disclosing the extent of risks involved. Misrepresentation and false advertising claims are common, where plaintiffs argue that the marketing of the product was misleading regarding its safety and effectiveness.
Failure to Recall or Update Safety Information
When new risks are identified post-market, manufacturers are expected to update their safety information and, if necessary, recall defective products. Birth control companies were slow to act on emerging safety data or failed to recall products in a timely manner, putting users at continued risk.
Lack of Proper Testing
Some legal actions focus on the allegation that birth control products were not adequately tested before being brought to market. Plaintiffs argue that clinical trials were insufficiently rigorous or did not adequately assess long-term effects, thereby exposing users to unforeseen risks.
Regulatory Actions and Public Awareness
Increased scrutiny from regulatory bodies and heightened public awareness about the risks of contraceptives have played a role in the rise of birth control lawsuits. High-profile recalls and regulatory warnings often prompt users to seek legal redress for harm they have experienced.
The filing of birth control lawsuits reflects broader issues of consumer safety, corporate responsibility, and the need for rigorous regulation and transparency in the pharmaceutical industry. These lawsuits not only seek compensation for those harmed, but also aim to ensure that contraceptive products are safe, effective, and accurately marketed to prevent future harm. They highlight the ongoing challenges in balancing the benefits of birth control with the imperative to protect public health.
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Who Is Liable for Illnesses Caused by Birth Control?
Liability for illnesses caused by birth control typically falls on parties within the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries, depending on the nature of the case. These parties include:
Pharmaceutical Companies
Pharmaceutical companies that manufacture and market birth control products are often primarily liable for illnesses caused by their products. They are responsible for ensuring their products are safe through rigorous testing and for providing clear, comprehensive information about risks and side effects. If a company fails to adequately test a product, misrepresents its safety, or does not properly warn users of dangers, it can be held liable for resulting health issues.
Healthcare Providers
Doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals who prescribe or recommend birth control can be held liable if they fail to provide proper guidance regarding the risks associated with the product. This includes not reviewing a patient’s medical history for contraindications or not informing them about alternative contraceptive options. If negligence or failure to obtain informed consent can be proven, healthcare providers may be found liable.
Pharmacies and Distributors
Pharmacies and distributors might share liability if they dispense birth control products that are known to be defective or have been recalled. They are also responsible for providing accurate information regarding the use and risks of these products. Failure to do so can result in legal accountability.
Determining liability for illnesses caused by birth control involves examining the roles and responsibilities of multiple parties, including pharmaceutical companies, healthcare providers, and distributors. Legal outcomes depend on proving negligence, inadequate warnings, or defective products that directly result in harm to the consumer.
Latest Updates in Yaz and Yasmin Lawsuits
The latest updates in Yaz and Yasmin lawsuits reflect ongoing legal battles concerning the alleged health risks associated with these popular birth control pills. Both Yaz and Yasmin, manufactured by Bayer, have been the subject of extensive litigation due to claims that they cause serious side effects, including blood clots, strokes, and heart attacks.
Bayer has agreed to settlements to resolve thousands of lawsuits. As of recent updates, Bayer has paid out over $2 billion to settle claims related to Yaz and Yasmin. These settlements aim to compensate individuals who experienced severe health issues linked to the use of these contraceptives.
Despite these settlements, new lawsuits continue to emerge. Plaintiffs allege that Bayer failed to provide adequate warnings about the risks and marketed Yaz and Yasmin as safer alternatives to other birth control options, contradicting evidence suggesting otherwise.
The FDA has been involved in scrutinizing the safety of Yaz and Yasmin. Updated warning labels were mandated to better inform users of the risks. However, criticism remains that the warnings are still insufficient.
Increased public awareness and media coverage continue to play a crucial role in encouraging affected individuals to seek legal redress. Advocacy groups are pushing for more stringent regulations and better transparency regarding contraceptive risks.
Did unsafe birth control cause your illness? Call Ankin Law at (312) 600-0000 to recover financially.
What to Do If You Suffer an Illness After Taking Yaz
If you suffer an illness after taking Yaz, it’s important to take immediate and informed steps to protect your health and legal rights.
Your health is the top priority. If you experience symptoms like severe headaches, chest pain, shortness of breath, or leg swelling, seek medical help immediately. These could be signs of serious conditions such as blood clots, stroke, or heart attack.
Keep detailed records of your symptoms, medical visits, treatments, and related expenses. This documentation will be crucial if you decide to pursue legal action.
Discuss your concerns and symptoms with your healthcare provider. He or she can help determine if Yaz may be the cause of your illness and recommend alternative contraceptive options.
Discontinue the use of Yaz. Your doctor can guide you on safely transitioning to another form of birth control.
Seek legal advice from a lawyer who is familiar with pharmaceutical litigation. He or she can assess your case, inform you of your legal rights, and help you navigate claims for compensation.
Report your adverse effects to the FDA’s MedWatch program. This helps regulators monitor drug safety and may contribute to future warnings or recalls.
By taking these steps, you can address your health concerns and explore your options for holding the responsible parties accountable for harm caused by Yaz.
Can You Sue for Birth Control Side Effects?
You can sue for birth control’s side effects if you have suffered harm due to the use of the contraceptive. Legal actions are often based on claims of product liability, negligence, or failure to warn. Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring their products are safe, and if a birth control product is defective due to design flaws, manufacturing errors, or inadequate warnings, you may have grounds for a product liability claim. Additionally, if the manufacturer did not provide sufficient warnings about side effects, you could sue for failure to warn. This includes not disclosing risks like blood clots, strokes, or other serious health issues associated with the contraceptive. You might also claim negligence if it can be shown that the manufacturer or healthcare provider failed to exercise reasonable care in the testing, marketing, or prescribing of the birth control product.
To pursue such a lawsuit, it is important to gather all medical records documenting the side effects and treatments you’ve received, as this is crucial evidence in your case. Consult with an attorney specializing in pharmaceutical litigation to evaluate your case and guide you through the legal process. Your lawyer will help you file a lawsuit, likely as part of a larger class action if many others are affected. Successfully suing for birth control side effects can lead to compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other related damages.
Frequently Asked Questions About Birth Control Lawsuits
What Birth Control Is Being Recalled?
Currently, Apotex’s Drospirenone and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets have been recalled, due to packaging errors that lead to unintended pregnancies. Recalls are typically due to issues like incorrect dosage, manufacturing defects, or mislabeling. Users should check the FDA’s website or contact their healthcare provider for the most up-to-date information on specific birth control recalls and risks.
How Long Do I Have to File a Birth Control Lawsuit?
In Illinois, the statute of limitations for filing a birth control lawsuit is generally two years from the date you discovered or should have discovered the associated injury or illness. This time frame can vary based on your case. It is crucial to consult with a personal injury attorney promptly to ensure you meet legal deadlines and preserve your right to compensation.
Do I Need a Lawyer for a Birth Control Lawsuit?
Hiring a lawyer for a birth control lawsuit is highly recommended. An experienced attorney familiar with pharmaceutical litigation can navigate the legal processes, gather essential evidence, and build a strong case. He or she can help maximize your compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages. Legal help is crucial for negotiating settlements or representing you in court to ensure your rights are fully protected.
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