The packaging error involved 14 lots of Lo/Ovral-28 tablets and 14 lots of generic Norgestrel and Ethinyl Estradiol tablets. These products are made by Pfizer and their marketing is done by Akrimax Rx Products under the Akrimax Pharmaceuticals brand in the U.S. An investigation by Pfizer revealed that some packets of the drugs contained more than required active tablets, whereas other packets had less than the required numbers. Normally, oral birth control packets contain a series of 21 drug tablets and 7 inactive sugar tablets that help to regulate the menstrual period in order to ensure contraception. It was also found during the investigation that the error on the packaging line was caused by both mechanical and visual inspection failures.

 

A statement was issued by Pfizer saying that the problem had been identified and corrected immediately. The statement also said that the recall was not on grounds of safety but it would have increased the risk of unwanted pregnancies. Patients having the affected lot numbers with expiration dates ranging from July 31, 2013 and March 31, 2014 have been requested to return them to the pharmacy.