Health Canada Issues Urgent Warning About Recalled Birth Control Pills
A nationwide recall has been issued in Canada for a specific lot of Seasonique prescription birth control pills after a critical packaging error was discovered. Health Canada is advising anyone who may be affected to take immediate action to prevent unintended health consequences, including the increased risk of pregnancy.
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Why Were Seasonique Pills Recalled?
One Lot Found With Missing Active Pills
The recall affects Lot Number: 100058977 of Seasonique birth control pills, which have an expiry date of May 2026 and were distributed across Canada — including major retailers such as Walmart. This lot was recalled by Teva Canada Ltd. following a complaint that a blister pack was missing two light blue-green pills, which are essential active doses in the medication cycle.
Health Canada warns that missing these active pills can compromise the effectiveness of the contraceptive, thereby increasing the risk of unintended pregnancy and potentially causing spotting or irregular bleeding.
Details of the Recalled Product
- Brand: Seasonique
- DIN: 02346176
- Lot Number: 100058977
- Expiry Date: 05/2026
- Dosage:
- 84 light blue-green tablets containing 0.15 mg levonorgestrel and 0.03 mg ethinyl estradiol
- 7 yellow tablets containing 0.01 mg ethinyl estradiol
- Pack Type: 2×91 extended-cycle tablet dispensers
What Should You Do If You Use Seasonique?
Do Not Stop Taking the Pills Abruptly
Health Canada stresses the importance of not stopping the medication or skipping any doses. If you discover your package is missing pills, do not discard the pack. Instead:
- Continue taking the pills in the correct order as outlined in the pack instructions.
- Visit your pharmacy immediately to request a replacement package or an alternative contraceptive.
- Use a nonhormonal backup method, such as condoms, especially if you missed any of the light blue-green active pills.
- Speak with your pharmacist if you are unsure whether your pack is affected or if you need guidance on your next steps.
Backup Birth Control Recommended for Missing Active Pills
If you have missed any light blue-green active pills, Health Canada advises using an additional form of nonhormonal birth control, such as condoms, until you can replace your pack. This will help maintain pregnancy prevention while ensuring no hormonal gaps occur.
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When to Contact a Health Professional
Speak to a health care provider if:
- You believe you took fewer active pills than required
- You are experiencing irregular bleeding or other side effects
- You have questions about alternative contraceptive options
You may also contact Teva Canada Ltd. directly:
- Phone: 1-800-268-4127 (Option 3)
- Email: [email protected]
How to Report a Product Safety Concern
Health or safety concerns related to consumer products, including medications, can be reported online through Health Canada’s consumer product incident report form.
For food-related issues, contact the Canadian Food Inspection Agency using their official complaint channels.
To stay updated on future recalls, Canadians are encouraged to regularly check recall databases on the Health Canada and CFIA websites.
Stay Informed and Protected
This recall highlights the importance of regularly checking medication packaging before use. If you’re currently using Seasonique or have recently purchased it, be sure to inspect the lot number on your pack and speak with your pharmacist about any concerns. Your vigilance could prevent unintended health consequences and ensure your contraceptive method remains safe and effective.
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