Two batches of the Tydemy birth control pill were recalled by maker Lupin because decreased levels of ascorbic acid (i.e. Vitamin C) may reduce their effectiveness in preventing pregnancy. The New Jersey drugmaker also announced that tests had shown the presence of high levels of a “known impurity”. The company did not elaborate.
“This could potentially impact the effectiveness of the product which could potentially result in unexpected pregnancy,” the company’s announcement said.
The two batches were distributed between June 3, 2022, and May 31, 2023 and they expire either in January or in September 2024.
The Food and Drug administration also declared that the two lots may have reduced effectiveness in preventing pregnancy. Both the FDA and Lupin explain there are no reports of adverse events related to the pill. Lupin in fact advise women to keep taking Tydemy but also to contact their physician “regarding an alternative treatment.” Pharmacies are asked to withdraw the product from sale.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 14% of US women between 15 and 29 years use birth control pills. Demand surged briskly since the Supreme Court’s overturn of Roe V Wade in June 2022, although that decision impacted abortion and not contraception. Last month, the FDA approved the birth control pill Opill as an over-the-counter medication.
