Qualitest Pharmaceuticals is recalling multiple lots of birth control pills because of a packaging error that may interfere with proper dosing and result in unintentional pregnancy.
The packaging error caused blisters to be rotated 180 degrees on the card, “reversing the weekly tablet orientation and making the lot number and expiry date no longer visible,” the company said in a recall announcement last week.
“As a result of this packaging error, the daily regimen for these oral contraceptives may be incorrect and could leave women without adequate contraception, and at risk for unintended pregnancy,” the company said.
The nationwide recall involves 1.4 million packages of birth control pills that have been distributed to pharmacists since last year and includes the following products:
- Cyclafem 7/7/7
- Cyclafem 1/35
- Emoquette
- Gildess FE 1.5/30
- Gildess FE 1/20
- Orsythia
- Previfem
- Tri-Previfem
Click here [PDF] for the full list of affected lot numbers, which can be found on the bottom of the box or on the individual blister card where still visible. Women taking pills included in the recall should begin using a nonhormonal backup method of contraception immediately.
Doctors, pharmacists and consumers with further questions about the recall can contact Qualitest at 877-300-6153 weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT.