Yasmin is a combination oral contraceptive that contains drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol hormones. It is mainly prescribed to prevent pregnancy. Yasmin is also prescribed to treat moderate to severe acne in women who have started their menstrual periods. Yasmin thickens the cervical and uterine lining, which makes it harder for fertilization to occur. Yasmin may cause hyperkalemia, defined as higher than normal levels of potassium in your blood, according to Yasmin's official website.
Potassium Retention
Potassium is a mineral that is essential for the proper functioning of the heart. Yasmin contains the hormone drospirenone that causes your body to retain potassium. The kidneys normally remove excess potassium from your body. If you have renal insufficiency or hepatic dysfunction, you are more likely to experience hyperkalemia because these disorders reduce the kidney's ability to rid your body of potassium. During treatment with Yasmin, your doctor may order regular blood tests to monitor potassium levels.
Symptoms
When taking Yasmin, be aware of the symptoms of hyperkalemia so that you can seek early treatment. Consult your doctor if you experience symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, irregular heartbeat, breathing problems, numbness and tingling in extremities and paralysis, according to PubMedHealth. Call the local emergency number if you experience breathing problems, chest pain, weak pulse or a tendency to lose consciousness.
Potassium Sources
During Yasmin therapy, your doctor may advise you to avoid or limit intake of foods rich in potassium, especially if you have kidney problems. Examples of foods rich in potassium include bananas, oranges, orange juice, apricots, prunes, dates, dried figs, peas, beans, milk and green leafy vegetables such as spinach and kale. When purchasing food, check the potassium content of any manufactured varieties.
Effects
When taking Yasmin, you may experience common effects such as upset stomach, breast tenderness, gingivitis, brown or dark spots on the skin, hair loss, acne, changes in menstrual flow, swelling of hands and feet and unintentional weight gain, according to Drugs.com. Contact your doctor if these side effects do not go away during treatment. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience a severe headache, shortness of breath, chest pain and weakness or numbness of arm or leg.
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