Depo-Provera is an injectable contraceptive that’s been used by women all over the world for hormonal and birth control treatment. However, a recent study has raised concerns about the safety of this drug. The research has shown a strong link between the long-term use of Depo-Provera and an increased risk of meningiomas, a type of slow-growing brain tumor.

With this new evidence, many women are coming forward to file lawsuits against Pfizer, the manufacturer of Depo-Provera. The drug is now at the center of a major legal battle. Plaintiffs allege that Pfizer failed to warn users about the potential risks of Depo-Provera. If you or someone you know may have developed a brain tumor after using Depo-Provera, you could be eligible to seek compensation for your injuries.

Let’s explain how you can go about seeking justice and fair compensation.

Depo-Provera and the Risks Involved

Depo-Provera, or medroxyprogesterone acetate, is a hormone-based contraceptive that is administered via injection every three months. The injection helps suppress ovulation and keeps the ovaries from releasing an egg. It’s 99.7% effective at preventing pregnancies and doesn’t require daily use.

While it’s effective and convenient for many women, a 2024 British Medical Journal study reveals a disturbing fact about the prolonged use of this drug. It exposes how women who have used this drug for over a year are five times more likely to be diagnosed with meningiomas than non-users. Meningioma is the most common type of brain tumor and forms in the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

Developed in 1959 and approved by the FDA in 1974, Depo-Provera has been around for decades. However, its approval was revoked in 1978 due to cancer concerns, only to be reapproved in 1992 as a contraceptive. Given these early warnings, it wasn’t surprising to see the British Medical Journal study linking Depo-Provera to the development of meningiomas.

While most meningiomas are said to be benign, they can result in life-altering complications, such as cognitive impairments, requiring surgical intervention and radiation therapy. If you’re experiencing persistent headaches, vision changes, general weakness, numbness, hearing loss, speech difficulty, and seizures, especially since you’ve had your Depo-Provera injections, it’s time to seek care, both medically and legally.

Why Pfizer May Face Legal Action?

Pfizer might face liability for the simple fact that they are the pharmaceutical giant that has developed Depo-Provera. Besides, they are being accused of not adequately warning the users about the potential side effects associated with this product. Even when scientific studies highlighted the risks, Pfizer did nothing to update the warning label.

Plaintiffs argue that Pfizer was legally obligated to inform users of these dangers. They knew or should have known that patients were at risk after extended use of Depo-Provera, and the associated symptoms have the potential to cause debilitating disabilities, permanent impairment, or life-threatening health conditions.

The company prioritized profits over patient safety by failing to notify about the risks. Something like meningiomas isn’t a minor health concern; when the tumor starts multiplying, it grows uncontrollably. Those needing surgery would undergo significant trauma, both physically and mentally. However, Pfizer rushed the drug into the market without adequate warnings or long-term studies.

Plaintiffs contend that they could have made more informed decisions to avoid serious harm if they were aware of the risks. If you’ve developed meningioma, and you believe it’s after the use of Depo-Provera, you would be able to file a lawsuit claiming that Pfizer’s negligence directly contributed to your condition.

Determining Your Eligibility

“Are there already any Depo-Provera brain tumor lawsuits,” and if yes, “am I eligible for a Depo-Provera brain tumor lawsuit?” “Also, I stopped taking Depo-Provera years ago. Will I still be able to file a claim?” These can be some common questions on your mind.

To start with, women who have used Depo-Provera for extended periods and were subsequently diagnosed with a brain tumor may qualify for a lawsuit. Ideally, if you have received at least two injections and later developed meningioma, you might have a valid claim.

Even if your last injection was several years ago, you may still be eligible to file a lawsuit. Fortunately, legal principles like the “discovery rule” allow victims to file claims upon discovering the connection between a drug they’ve used or been using and their health condition.

Recently, numerous cases have been filed against Pfizer and its subsidiaries alleging that Depo-Provera causes meningiomas. One case filed on October 17, 2024, in Hamilton County, Indiana, details how a plaintiff used Depo-Provera from 1995 to 2018 and was diagnosed with a meningioma in 2017, necessitating surgery and subsequent radiation treatment for proper recovery.

We anticipate that the litigation will favor those who have undergone surgery for meningiomas. Attorneys also focus on holding the company accountable, even for the generic versions of Depo-Provera.

While Pfizer has updated its Depo-Provera label in Europe, there’s no update on its product labels in the US despite all the chaos that’s happening.

If you suspect yourself to be a victim of Depo-Provera-associated meningiomas, it’s crucial to get help from a trusted and experienced Depo-Provera attorney. They can assist you in understanding your rights, determining your eligibility, and guiding you through the legal process effectively.

How Is The Lawsuit Expected To Proceed?

The first-ever Depo-Provera lawsuit has already been filed. This is expected to bring about a wave of several similar cases. Most Depo-Provera lawsuits will likely be grouped into a Multi-District Litigation (MDL). This will allow multiple cases with similar claims to be handled more efficiently.

MDLs are usually a common approach in large-scale, complex pharmaceutical lawsuits. It ensures that the injuries and damages of every plaintiff are evaluated thoroughly. Based on the outcome of initial cases, called bellwether trials, Pfizer might choose to resolve all claims in a global settlement.

Get Legal Help Today with your Depo-Provera Litigation

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a brain tumor after using Depo-Provera, it’s important to seek legal advice. If you’re eligible, you’ll be able to receive compensation for your medical bills, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Chelsie King Garza, an experienced Texas medical negligence attorney and personal injury lawyer at Chelsie King Garza, P.C., is committed to fighting for the rights of women harmed by this drug. She is s actively accepting Depo-Provera lawsuits and can ensure you receive the justice and compensation you deserve. If you meet the criteria and are ready to discuss your case, get in touch today.