FDA Approves Oral Contraceptive YAZ For Treatment Of Acne

February 2, 2007 – 5:57 pm | posted in Dermatology, Sexual Health / STDs

Bayer Schering Pharma subsidiary Berlex on Monday announced that FDA has approved its oral contraceptive pill YAZ to treat moderate acne in women, the AP/International Herald Tribune reports. YAZ is now the first oral contraceptive to be approved for three uses, including birth control, acne treatment, and treatment for the emotional and physical symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder, the company said in a release (AP/International Herald Tribune, 1/29). “We are delighted to have received the approval for YAZ in this third indication,” Phil Smits, head of the women’s health care business unit at Bayer Schering, said. “We are convinced that through its unique features, YAZ will further strengthen our worldwide leading market position in the field of female contraception,” he added (Bayer Schering release, 1/29). YAZ contains ethinyl estradiol and drospirenone and is taken once a day for 24 days followed by four days of placebo to induce a menstrual period. Most oral contraceptives are taken for 21 consecutive days followed by seven days of placebos (Kaiser Daily Women’s Health Policy Report, 10/10/06).

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