- Moderate to severe acne in females of at least 14 years of
age.
- Treating premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), a severe form
of PMS.
- Folate deficiency in women at high risk of certain birth defect
while pregnant.
Like other combined oral contraceptives Yaz contains an estrogen
and a progestin, the combination of which is highly effective at
preventing pregnancy. Though similar to other birth control pills
in effectiveness and side effects, Yaz is one of only a handful
which contain the ingredient drospirenone, particularly useful in
treating PMDD.
Using Yaz for Birth Control:
Yaz is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.
Each Yaz blister pack contains 24 active pills and 4 inert reminder
pills. As with other birth control pills, 1 pill is taken daily
starting either on the first day of a period or on the Sunday
following the first day of a period. Treatment continues
uninterrupted for as long a pregnancy prevention is desired.
If one dose is missed, 2 pills can be taken when it's time for the
next dose. If more than 2 consecutive pills are missed, treatment
should be started over. Effectiveness is considerably reduced
during the initial week of use and if more than 2 consecutive doses
are missed.
During the first month of treatment, or if treatment is
interrupted, there may be some spotting and menstruation may be
delayed or missed entirely for a month. By the second month the
body will have adjusted and periods will be regular.
In cases of severe illness involving vomiting or diarrhea dosage
may also be interrupted, as pills may be expelled from the body
before fully absorbed. Extra birth control methods should be used
for 7 days when there is doubt.
Treating Acne with Yaz:
Young women at least 14 years old, and who have had their first
period, may be given Yaz to treat moderate to severe acne. Dosage
is typically 1 pill daily. Duration may last months or years, with
periodic breaks to see if continuation is necessary.
Yaz is not effective on all types of acne. If results are not
noticable within one month of treatment, speak with a doctor about
other options to try.
Using this medication to treat acne, especially if taken once a
day, will also prevent pregnancy.
Treating PMDD:
A great many women suffer from PMS or PMT, but premenstrual
dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is its severest form. Though symptoms are
similar, they are greatly exaggerated in PMDD and can be very
disruptive to work and daily life:
- Heart palpitations
- Headaches, including migraines
- Joint or body aches
- Severe mood swings
- Extreme fatigue
- Extreme depression
- Suicidal thoughts
- Inability to concentrate
- Panic attacks
- Overwhelmed by emotions
- Difficulty controlling emotions
- Insomnia or hypersomnia
Though the effects of Yaz on PMS have not been closely studied, the
treatment has proven very effective for the majority of PMDD
sufferers, reducing symptoms by over 50%.
Physician instructions may vary slightly, but typically one pill is
taken daily, as when used for birth control. Pregnancy will be
inhibited for the duration of treatment.
Folate Supplementation:
Yaz is prescribed as a Folate supplement only in relatively unique
circumstances. Physician instructions and duration of treatment
will vary by individual.
Warnings:
Contraindications and side effects associate with Yaz are very
similar to those associated with other birth control pills. Women
with certain pre-existing health conditions, and women who smoke,
are more prone to experiencing serious side effects. Speak with a
doctor about potential risks.
Yaz may damage unborn or nursing babies; women who are pregnant or
breast-feeding should avoid use.