Full statement from Bayer

Read more: Yaz, Yasmin birth control pills linked to deaths of 23 Canadian women: Health Canada

We extend our deepest sympathies to the women and their families who feel that they have been adversely affected by YAZ and Yasmin.

At Bayer we take the safety of our products very seriously and we continuously review the safety profiles of our products worldwide. Bayer investigates reports on side effects thoroughly and collaborates closely with Health Canada concerning the use, benefits and risks of all products, including YAZ and Yasmin. Bayer strongly encourages all patients and healthcare professionals to report adverse events to the company directly or to Health Canada.

Combined oral contraceptives, like YAZ and Yasmin, are among the most systematically studied and widely used medical products available today. Based on a thorough assessment of the available scientific data by regulatory authorities, outside independent experts and Bayer scientists, YAZ and Yasmin® are safe, effective and have a favourable benefit-risk profile when used as directed in the Health Canada approved Product Monograph. Bayer fully stands behind YAZ and Yasmin.

We are aware of the reports of deaths in Canada of patients who have been prescribed  YAZ and Yasmin. Each month, Bayer and Health Canada exchange information to reconcile all reported adverse events. It’s important to note that reported adverse events do not necessarily denote a direct causation with the product.

In response to your question about the status of the class action lawsuit in Ontario, we are very disappointed in Justice Crane’s decision to certify a class in Ontario in an ongoing lawsuit regarding YAZ and Yasmin.  No decision has been made on the merits of the case. We have filed a request with the Court for leave to appeal the decision and are evaluating our legal options. As a matter of policy, we will not comment further on next steps.