Recent legal actions against Pfizer Inc., the pharmaceutical company behind Depo-Provera, allege significant health risks associated with the long-term use of the injectable contraceptive. Depo-Provera is an injectable form of medroxyprogesterone acetate: prescribed for birth control, treatment of hormonal issues and heavy periods. Depo-subQ provera 104 is a similar product used for birth control and to treat endometriosis. The actions allege that scientific evidence links prolonged use of these products to an increased likelihood of developing meningioma brain and spinal tumors. The tumors are typically benign but can have serious consequences as they put pressure on delicate structures as they grow. Treatment often includes surgical removal or radiation therapy, either of which can cause serious brain injuries resulting in loss of function, seizures or even death.
Symptoms of meningioma include:
- Seizures
- Double or blurry vision
- Headaches that are worse in the morning
- Hearing loss or ringing in your ears
- Memory loss
- Aphasia
- Loss of smell
- Weakness in your arms or legs
The Science Behind the Concerns
A French study published in the British Medical Journal in March 2024 revealed that long-term users of Depo-Provera faced a 5 ½ times higher risk of developing meningiomas compared to those who didn’t use the drug. The findings noted that, while meningiomas are generally non-cancerous, they can cause severe symptoms, such as headaches, vision loss, and cognitive difficulties. This study is one of the most substantial pieces of evidence connecting hormonal birth control to tumor risks, prompting Pfizer to consider updating its warnings and product labels.
Impacted Users and Legal Responses
In October 2024, the first federal lawsuit in the U.S. over Depo-Provera’s alleged role in causing brain tumors was filed. A long-term Depo-Provera user developed debilitating headaches and vertigo before a brain scan revealed a meningioma. According to her claim, she had been using the drug since 2005 and was not informed of the potential tumor risk.
The action claims that Pfizer either knew or should have known about these risks based on historical research and similar products’ impacts. Pfizer has responded that it plans to work with regulatory agencies to ensure product labels reflect emerging findings, but as of now, existing product information lacks such warnings.
Do you Have a Case?
For those affected, eligibility for a Depo-Provera brain tumor lawsuit typically depends on the duration of drug use and the timeline of their symptoms and diagnosis. If individuals used Depo-Provera consistently over several years and later developed a meningioma, they may be eligible to pursue a claim. As more affected women come forward, the case against Pfizer could become part of a Multi-District Litigation (MDL).
If you are 70 years old or younger and have been diagnosed with meningioma after using Depo-Provera or Depo-subQ Provera 104 for at least a year, you may have a case.
A Depo-Provera lawsuit seeks compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering and other harm caused by the drug and seeks to hold Pfizer accountable for its failures to warn. Drug companies are legally required to report known risks associated with their products to consumers. Women have many choices for birth control and deserve to have all available information available to make informed decisions about matters that could affect their health and welfare.
What Should You Do?
If you used Depo-Provera or Depo-subQ Provera 10 for at least a year and were later diagnosed with meningioma, please contact our Rochester personal injury lawyers for a free consultation.
