Oral contraceptive pills can cause certain side effects depending on the ingredients. Yasmin contains ethinyl estradiol and drospirenone. This type of birth control pill may increase your risk of developing hyperkalemia, an increase in the level of potassium in your bloodstream. There is no evidence suggesting that Yasmin causes hypercalciuria, an increase in calcium. Tell your doctor about any unusual side effect you notice while taking Yasmin.
Yasmin
Unlike many birth control pills, Yasmin uses drospirenone instead of progestin. The drospirenone in this variety of oral contraceptive may affect your kidney function, decreasing your ability to excrete potassium, which results in an increased amount of potassium in your bloodstream.
Hyperkalemia
Potassium helps support the health of your nerves and muscles, including your heart. Excessive levels of potassium in your bloodstream can cause an irregular heartbeat. Hyperkalemia may also cause weakness, fatigue, tingling, paralysis, vomiting and difficulty breathing. In addition to taking Yasmin, other medications may also increase your risk of hyperkalemia. These medications include ACE inhibitors, ibuprofen and aspirin. Certain foods can also increase potassium levels in your bloodstream, further increasing the risk of this disorder. Foods that contain high levels of potassium include apricots, artichokes, granola, cantaloupe, black beans grapefruit juice and yogurt.
Hypercalciuria
Too much calcium in your bloodstream can lead to the formation of kidney stones. Although Yasmin may not contribute to hypercalciuria, this disorder can damage your kidneys and result in an increased risk of developing hyperkalemia. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, kidney disease is the main cause of hyperkalemia. Depending on the underlying cause of hypercalciuria, your doctor may recommend that you restrict your intake of calcium.
Precautions
Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking Yasmin, especially if you have a history of kidney stones or have hypercalciuria. Tell your doctor which vitamins and minerals you consume on a regular basis. Nutritional supplements can interact with certain prescription medications, including birth control pills. Avoid using salt substitutes while taking Yasmin. These often contain potassium, increasing the amount of this mineral in your body. High levels of potassium in your bloodstream can cause lightheadedness and fainting.
