Distraught wife sitting near bed

Unintended Pregnancy Risk: Nearly 170,000 Allergan Birth Control Packs Recalled

July 14, 20252 min read

In one of the most alarming pharmaceutical recalls in recent memory, nearly 170,000 packs of Allergan birth control pills were pulled from pharmacy shelves due to a packaging error that could result in unintended pregnancies.

If you or someone you love became pregnant while relying on this medication, you may have legal grounds for a product liability claim.

At Nelson, Bryan, and Cross, we’re committed to holding pharmaceutical companies accountable when their mistakes impact lives—especially here in Alabama.


What Happened with the Recall?

In a 2020 recall notice, Allergan announced that certain Taytulla birth control packs were incorrectly packaged. Specifically, the recall affected sample packs where placebo pills were placed where active pills should have been, and vice versa.

This kind of reversal can completely disrupt a person’s hormone cycle—causing ovulation and dramatically increasing the risk of unintended pregnancy.

The affected lots included:

  • Taytulla (1 mg norethindrone acetate/20 mcg ethinyl estradiol) 6x28 sample packs

  • Lot Number: 5620706

  • Expiration: May 2019

While the company acted swiftly to initiate the recall, many patients had already taken the pills without realizing the error.


How Could This Happen?

Pharmaceutical packaging is supposed to go through strict quality control checks, especially for medications like birth control, which rely on precise timing and dosage.

When packaging defects like this occur, they may represent:

  • Negligence in quality assurance

  • Failure to warn consumers promptly

  • Unsafe manufacturing or labeling practices

These are all grounds for a product liability lawsuit in Alabama.


Potential Consequences for Women and Families

Taking improperly packaged birth control may lead to:

  • Unintended pregnancy

  • Emotional distress

  • Financial strain

  • Medical risks associated with stopping and restarting hormones

For some individuals—especially those with health issues, on medications, or with life plans that did not include pregnancy at the time—this can be life-altering.


Do I Have a Legal Case?

If you:

  • Took birth control from the affected Allergan batch

  • Became pregnant as a result

  • Suffered damages (emotional, financial, or physical)

You may be eligible to pursue a claim for compensation.

Compensation may include:

  • Medical expenses

  • Emotional distress

  • Lost wages

  • Future child-rearing costs (in some cases)

Every situation is unique, which is why legal counsel is so important.


How Nelson, Bryan, and Cross Can Help

Our legal team at Nelson, Bryan, and Cross has extensive experience handling dangerous drug cases and product recalls. We understand how deeply a pharmaceutical company’s mistake can affect your future—and we’re here to help you fight back.

We’ll work to:

  • Determine if your case qualifies for compensation

  • Gather medical and pharmaceutical evidence

  • File your claim against the manufacturer or distributor

  • Pursue a fair settlement or court judgment

These cases are time-sensitive. If you were affected by the Allergan birth control recall, don’t delay.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation today. We’re ready to listen—and take action.

Back to Blog