South African Contraceptive Pill Recall Due to Mix-Up: A limited number of blister packs containing 24 inactive pills instead of hormone-containing active pills have been recalled by Bayer Ltd. Women using these affected packs are advised to stop immediately and seek medical advice.
Background
The Issue
A limited number of blister packs, specifically those labelled WEW96J and expiring in March 2026, were found to contain 24 inactive pills instead of the usual 24 hormone-containing active pills. This means that women using these affected packs may not be receiving the contraceptive protection they expect.
Actions Taken
Manufacturer Bayer Ltd has recalled the erroneous batch in consultation with the South Africa Health Products Regulatory Agency. The company stresses that the root cause of the mix-up has been identified and dealt with.
Advice to Users
Women who have acquired a packet of pills from the affected batch are advised to stop using them immediately and seek medical advice. Healthcare professionals, hospitals, pharmacies, doctors, nurses, and wholesalers who have packets of the affected batch should also return them for replacement or refund.
Corrective Measures
Bayer Ltd has set up a helpline for people with any further questions regarding this recall.
Related Topics
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Medicine
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Women’s health
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South Africa
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Contraception
Key Points
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A limited number of packs in a specific batch were affected.
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The issue was identified and corrected by Bayer Ltd.
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Women using pills from the affected batch should stop immediately and seek medical advice.
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The company has set up a helpline for further questions.
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Healthcare professionals, hospitals, pharmacies, doctors, nurses, and wholesalers are advised to return packets of the affected batch.
