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Depo-Provera, a widely used injectable contraceptive, has recently been linked to an increased risk of developing meningiomas—tumors that form in the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. This association has led to a surge in legal actions against the manufacturer, Pfizer, with affected individuals seeking justice and compensation for their injuries.
Depo-Provera, known generically as medroxyprogesterone acetate, is a hormonal contraceptive administered via injection every three months. Approved by the FDA in 1992, it functions by preventing ovulation and has been a popular birth control method for millions of women worldwide. Beyond contraception, Depo-Provera is also prescribed for managing conditions like endometriosis and abnormal uterine bleeding.
Depo provera is a shot taken every three months. It contains progestin, a synthetic hormone that prevents pregnancy by blocking the release of eggs during ovulation and thickening cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching the egg. The thickening mucus lining of the cervix keeps sperm out.
The shot is over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. However, it may also be prescribed for managing other gynecological conditions such as endometriosis.
Recent studies have raised concerns about the long-term safety of Depo-Provera. The British America Journal published a study in March 2024 that found a clear link between the use of depo provera and the development of meningioma.
BMJ Medicine study indicates that women using Depo-Provera have a statistically significant increase in the risk of developing meningiomas. Specifically, the study found that prolonged use of Depo-Provera is associated with a 5.6-fold higher risk of meningioma compared to non-users.
The study analyzed data from 108,366 women, including 18,061 who had undergone surgery for meningioma, making this a substantial and robust investigation.
The study specifically highlighted medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA), commonly known as Depo-Provera. Among the 18,061 cases of meningioma, 9 women had been exposed to MPA (0.05%), compared to 11 exposures among 90,305 controls (0.01%). This translates to an odds ratio of 5.55—a strikingly high figure. It is rare to see such strong statistical evidence in support of a tort claim.
Meningioma is a tumor that grows in the meninges, the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. These tumors grow slowly and can exist for years before being detected. Typically, they don’t invade the brain, but they may press on the brain and spinal cord as they grow. In the majority of cases, meningiomas are treatable and can be surgically removed.
Possible causes of meningioma include radiation therapy, female hormones, and genetics. In most cases, the disease is noncancerous.
If you took depo provera, go be seen by a doctor if you’ve experienced the following symptoms:
Meningionmas are a common type of brain tumor and account for 40% of all reported tumors in the brain.
Meningiomas are categorized in to three different grades:
In light of these findings, numerous lawsuits have been filed against Pfizer, the manufacturer of Depo-Provera. Plaintiffs allege that Pfizer failed to adequately warn users about the potential risk of developing meningiomas associated with the drug. Legal claims include negligence, strict liability, and failure to warn consumers and healthcare providers about the dangers linked to long-term use of Depo-Provera.
As of November 2024, efforts are underway to consolidate these cases into a multidistrict litigation (MDL) to streamline the legal process and address common issues among the claims. A petition has been filed with the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation seeking consolidation in the Northern District of California, citing the high number of cases already filed in the state and the unique innovator liability laws that allow plaintiffs to sue the brand-name manufacturer Pfizer, even if they used the generic version of the drug.
Individuals who have used Depo-Provera and subsequently developed a meningioma or other brain tumors may be eligible to file a lawsuit. Eligibility criteria generally include:
It’s crucial for potential plaintiffs to consult with experienced Depo-Provera lawsuit attorneys to evaluate their individual cases and determine the best course of action.
Our Depo Provera lawsuit attorneys will fight for our clients to ensure Pfizer faces substantial legal consequences for Depo Provera brain cancer.
We are pursuing action against the company for allegations that the company failed to adequately warn consumers about the risk of developing meningioma brain tumors.
Drug manufacturers are legally obligated to provide clear and comprehensive warnings about the risks associated with their products. However, Pfizer reportedly did not include the risk of meningiomas on Depo Provera’s warning label, even as evidence linking prolonged use of the contraceptive to this serious condition accumulated. Patients rely on accurate and complete information when making healthcare decisions, and a failure to disclose known risks undermines that trust.
The connection between progesterone and meningiomas has been understood—or should have been understood—by pharmaceutical companies for decades. Pfizer, as a manufacturer, was responsible for conducting FDA-required post-market surveillance to identify and address potential safety concerns. Plaintiffs in these lawsuits will likely argue that Pfizer’s failure to update the label, despite evidence of risk, reflects a prioritization of profit over consumer safety.
This omission could expose Pfizer to significant financial liability. If properly informed of the risks, patients might have chosen alternative contraceptive methods. Given the wide array of safer birth control options available, this argument is likely to resonate with juries, especially when paired with the gravity of the injuries involved. The risk of developing a brain tumor is not only severe but also deeply alarming, adding a layer of emotional impact to the claims.
If jurors accept that Pfizer neglected its duty to warn in favor of profits, it could significantly influence trial outcomes and settlement amounts in this litigation. Unlike some other birth control lawsuits, this case centers on an injury that is both life-threatening and terrifying, which sets it apart and may result in substantial settlements or verdicts.
Yes, every state has a statute of limitations that limits the time you have to file a lawsuit. This usually begins when you are diagnosed with a meningioma or when you first discover the connection between Depo-Provera and your condition. Consult an attorney promptly to avoid missing deadlines.
Heinz Funeral Home is accused of mishandling human remains by providing families with incorrect cremated remains, storing bodies in unrefrigerated conditions, leaving bodies in hospital morgues for extended periods, and mislabeling remains.
According to recent findings, Depo-Provera (medroxyprogesterone acetate), when used for longer than one year, may present a 5.6x increased risk of intracranial meningioma. The study used data from the French national healthcare system from 2009 to 2018.
Bone Density Loss:
Depo-Provera can cause a decrease in bone mineral density, particularly in young women whose bones are still developing. This side effect can lead to long-term issues like osteoporosis.
Risk of Brain Tumors:
Recent studies have linked prolonged use of Depo-Provera to an increased risk of meningiomas, which are typically benign brain tumors. This risk increases with the cumulative dose, prompting greater concern for long-term users.
Side Effects and Long-Term Implications:
In addition to bone and brain health concerns, users frequently report side effects like weight gain, depression, irregular bleeding, and loss of fertility (temporary but prolonged after discontinuation).
Historical and Ethical Concerns:
Depo-Provera was tested on vulnerable populations (such as low-income women and women of color) before its FDA approval, raising ethical issues. This legacy has contributed to ongoing skepticism about its safety.
If successful, a lawsuit may provide compensation for:
Consult a healthcare professional to evaluate your symptoms and determine if they may be related to meningioma or other conditions.
Keep detailed records of your Depo-Provera usage, medical diagnoses, treatments, and any related healthcare visits.
Engage with a legal professional experienced in pharmaceutical litigation to assess your case and guide you through the legal process.
Selecting a qualified attorney is crucial to effectively navigate the complexities of a Depo-Provera lawsuit. Consider the following when choosing legal representation:
Firms like Ben Crump Law have extensive experience in advocating for victims of defective drugs and can provide the expertise needed to pursue justice and compensation.
With over a dozen locations throughout Texas, there’s a Carlson Law Firm near you. We have law offices located in Killeen, Temple, Waco, Round Rock, Austin, San Antonio, Kerrville, Laredo, Bryan, Lubbock, Midland, and Corpus Christi.
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Austin, TX 78748
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St. Petersburg, FL 33701
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Killeen, TX 76541
(254) 526-5688
11606 N. I-35
Austin, TX 78753
(512) 346-5688
135 W. Slaughter Ln, Ste A
Austin, TX 78748
(512) 804-7277
6243 I-10 #550
San Antonio, TX 78201
(210) 696-8600
618 SW Military Dr.
San Antonio, TX 78221
(210) 923-7700
1109 W. Baker Road, Ste A
Baytown, TX 77521
(832) 806-6155
1121 Briarcrest Drive, Ste 200
Bryan, TX 77802
(979) 260-5688
653 Everhart Rd, Ste 105
Corpus Christi, TX 78411
(361) 336-3317
301 Junction Highway, Ste 100
Kerrville, TX 78028
(830) 257-7575
5112 McPherson, Ste 106
Laredo, TX 78041
(956) 712-2588
10101 Quaker Ave
Lubbock, TX 79424
(806) 401-0500
900 Lp 250 Frontage Rd b
Midland, TX 79705
(432) 247-6611
559 S I-35 Frontage Rd Ste 250,
Round Rock, TX 78664
(512) 671-7277
4282 S Jackson St.
San angelo, TX 76903
(325) 238-4322
2010 SW H K Dodgen Loop, Ste 201
Temple TX 76504
(254) 771-5688
2420 I-35 South
Waco, TX 76706
(254) 772-5653
2909 Garnett Ave
Wichita Falls, TX 76308
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St. Petersburg, FL 33701
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