Depo-Provera and Brain Tumor Risk: What You Need to Know

A shocking new medical study reveals a possible connection between the use of Depo-Provera, a popular birth control shot, and a 5 times higher risk of a type of brain tumor called a meningioma.

The research found that women who used Depo-Provera or its generic versions were at a much higher risk of developing meningiomas. This risk increases with long-term use, making it important for women using this form of birth control to be aware of the potential dangers.

The increased risk is thought to be linked to medroxyprogesterone acetate, a hormone in Depo-Provera that may stimulate tumor growth in sensitive brain tissues.

Meningiomas are typically non-cancerous tumors that form in the protective layers of the brain and spinal cord. These tumors can cause serious health problems such as headaches, seizures, and vision issues.  In many cases, doctors will need to perform surgery to remove the tumor. This surgery also carries risk of damage to functions controlled by the brain in the site surrounding the tumor.

If you are taking Depo-Provera now or have taken it in the past, and are diagnosed with a meningioma brain tumor, reach out to our legal team right away for a case evaluation.

Learn about meningioma brain tumors and the connection to Depo-Provera

Do you qualify for a Depo-Provera Lawsuit?

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a meningioma brain tumor after using Depo-Provera, you might be able to receive compensation through a lawsuit. Mctlaw is investigating these claims for people who meet the following conditions:

  • You must have been prescribed and had at least two injections of Depo-Provera or a generic version (medroxyprogesterone acetate)
  • You must have received the Depo birth control shot after 1992
  • You must have been diagnosed with a Meningioma (malignant or benign)

If you meet these criteria, reach out to our legal team right away to discuss your case. There may be time limits on how long you have to file a claim, so don’t delay in getting a free consultation. You do not want time to run out on a potential claim.

Current status of Depo-Provera meningioma lawsuits

As of October 2024, the Depo-Provera brain tumor litigation is still in its early stages.

  • No coordinated proceedings yet: There is no established multidistrict litigation (MDL) for these claims.  (Note that an MDL and a “Class Action” both coordinate large numbers of cases, but an MDL is generally better for cases where there is physical injury).  
  • No settlements or verdicts have been reached in the United States.
  • Ongoing Investigations: Lawyers are actively investigating and accepting new cases from people diagnosed with brain tumors, particularly meningiomas, after using Depo-Provera or its generic versions.
  • Lawsuits Against Pfizer: The lawsuits primarily focus on product liability claims against Pfizer, the manufacturer of Depo-Provera, for allegedly failing to warn consumers about the increased risk of brain tumors with prolonged use.

Why Choose mctlaw for a Depo-Provera Lawsuits?

The attorneys at mctlaw have extensive experience handling complex product liability cases, including those involving defective medical devices and harmful drugs.

With a strong track record of successful verdicts and settlements, mctlaw is uniquely qualified to represent clients in Depo-Provera lawsuits.

The firm’s expertise in managing large-scale pharmaceutical litigation, combined with a national presence and a team of skilled attorneys, makes mctlaw a reliable choice for individuals harmed by Depo-Provera.

Timeline of Depo-Provera Brain Tumor Litigation

  • March 2024: A study published in The British Medical Journal linked Depo-Provera to a higher risk of meningioma.  The study was merely observational – it did not draw a cause-and-effect relationship.   However, it noted the importance of further research given their findings. 
  • March 2024:  Pfizer acknowledged the publication and stated: “We are aware of this potential risk associated with long-term use of progestogens and, in collaboration with regulatory agencies, are in the process of updating product labels and patient information leaflets with appropriate wording.”
  • August 2024: Lawyers began filing individual lawsuits and investigating claims. There is no centralized MDL for these claims yet.
  • October 2024: Litigation remains in the preliminary stages, with no reported settlements or trial outcomes so far.

Risks of Using Depo-Provera Compared to Other Birth Control Methods

A study published in The British Medical Journal in March 2024 found that women who used Depo-Provera had a 5.6 times greater risk of developing meningiomas compared to women who used other hormonal contraceptives.

This elevated risk is particularly concerning for long-term users. Plaintiffs in these lawsuits argue that if Pfizer had disclosed this information, many women would have chosen different contraceptive options, and healthcare providers would have been more careful when prescribing the drug.

If you believe you have a claim related to Depo-Provera use, contact the attorneys at mctlaw right away for a free consultation. They will review your case based on your medical history, length of Depo-Provera use, and your diagnosis to determine if you qualify for compensation.

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MCTLaw attorney Ilyas Sayeg
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Content Reviewed by Ilyas Sayeg – Product Liability Lawyer

MCTLaw attorney Ilyas Sayeg

Ilyas Sayeg is a partner at mctlaw working in the Firm’s product liability and complex consumer protection practices representing clients with failing metal on metal hip replacements. Mr. Sayeg represents “Davids” nationwide who are injured by defective products and deceptive business practices of the corporate “Goliaths” who put profit before safety. A passionate advocate, he takes pride in standing toe-to-toe against some of the largest companies in the world to help his clients seek justice. Mr. Sayeg is a member of the American Association for Justice.

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