Pfizer has recalled about 1 million packets of birth control pills in the U.S. by Pfizer because a packaging error could increase the possibility of pregnancy. The affected pills include 14 lots of Lo/Ovral-28 tablets and 14 lots of generic Norgestrel and Ethinyl Estradiol tablets. All the pills were marketed by Akrimax Rx Products and have expiration dates ranging from July 31, 2013, to March 31, 2014.  The lot numbers can be found on the FDA’s website.

The problem with the affect pills is that some packets have too many active tablets while others don’t have too few. In addition, some of the packets contain birth control pills that are out of sequence. As a result, women taking the recalled packets could be at risk for unintended pregnancy.

If you have any of the recalled Pfizer tablets you should contact your physician and return the medication. In addition you should start using a non-hormonal form of contraception immediately.   Pfizer advises: “Any adverse events that may be related to the use of these products should be reported to Akrimax Medical Information at 1-877-509-3935 (8 AM to 7 PM Mon-Fri CST) or to FDA’s Med Watch Program.”

Carla Snuggs is a freelance writer for Endless Beauty.