Is the Ortho Evra patch dangerous?
The Ortho Evra patch has been linked to an increased risk of DVT (Deep Venous Thrombosis) and PE (Pulmonary Embolism), which can lead to stroke, hemorrhage, heart attack and death. Evidence shows that the risk of blood clots and stroke associated with Ortho Evra is significantly higher than with oral contraceptive pills. The incidence of embolisms and thrombotic injuries from Ortho Evra side effects is at least three times greater than the incidence of such side effects in oral contraceptives using the hormone levonorgestral. Blood clots are a known risk from hormonal birth control because estrogen promotes blood coagulation. Clots typically form in the legs and can cause serious injury and death if they travel to the heart, lungs or brain.
