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In response to media enquiries concerning a news agency report which said that six New Zealand women had died from blood clots after taking four types of oral contraceptives, a spokesman for the Department of Health confirmed that the four contraceptive pills --- Mercilon, Marvelon, Femodene and Minulet --- are registered in Hong Kong under the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance. Femodene is registered here under the name of Gynera.

He advised users of all oral contraceptives to consult their doctor before choosing such products. They should also have regular physical check ups to see if they should continue taking such pills.

On the four types of contraceptive pills in question, he pointed out that the Pharmacy and Poisons Board had last considered them in 1995.

The Board was of the view that Chinese pill-users showed a lower incidence of adverse effects than Caucasians and decided that there should be no change of the law relating to the sale of oral contraceptives.

However, the Board decided that all oral contraceptives should carry the following statement, in both English and Chinese, on the labels: "Caution. While you are receiving this medication, you should see a doctor at least once a year for advice on suitability of continued use."

The spokesman advised users of these four pills to adhere to the advice. There is no need for them to stop taking the pill on their own accord. When in doubt, they should consult their doctors.

He added that as with other information concerning the safety of certain drugs, information on the news report from New Zealand would be submitted to the Pharmacy and Poisons Board for consideration.

End/Monday, January 25, 1999

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