Depo-Provera Brain Tumor Risk: Understanding the Link and Your Options

The Depo-Provera shot, a widely used form of injectable birth control, has recently come under scrutiny. Many women who opted for this contraceptive for more than a year, or experienced prolonged use over more than two years, are now learning about a increased risk: the development of a Depo-Provera brain tumor.

On October 1, 2024, a significant Depo-Provera lawsuit was filed against Pfizer Inc. and its affiliated companies in federal courts. This Depo-Provera litigation alleges that Pfizer knew, or should have known, for decades that their injectable birth control product, marketed as Depo-Provera (containing medroxyprogesterone acetate), presented an increased risk of meningioma development. The Depo-Provera claims assert that Pfizer failed to adequately warn users, particularly women seeking long-term contraception, of this potential health risk. The plaintiff in this lawsuit alleges she developed a brain tumor as a direct result of taking Depo-Provera.

What Is Meningioma?

A meningioma is a specific type of tumor that originates in the meninges, the protective tissues surrounding the brain and spinal cord. An intracranial meningioma, which forms within the head, is the most common type of tumor in this category. Most meningiomas grow very slowly, often over many years, and may not cause any noticeable symptoms initially.

When an intracranial meningioma does cause symptoms, they can vary widely depending on the tumor’s size and its location within the brain. Because they are often slow-growing, symptoms may begin gradually and can be subtle at first. Common symptoms can include:

Headaches, which may worsen over time or be more severe in the morning.
Changes in vision, such as blurred or double vision,or and even vision loss.
Weakness in the arms or legs.
Seizures.
Hearing loss or ringing in the ears (tinnitus).
Memory loss or changes in mental function.
Loss of smell (anosmia).
Difficulties with speech.
Changes in personality or behavior.

Diagnosing a meningioma typically involves a neurological exam and imaging tests. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a common and effective tool used to get detailed pictures of the brain and identify the tumor; A CT scan may also be used.

While a benign brain tumor (noncancerous), meningioma growth can often exert pressure on the brain or adjacent nerves, potentially leading to significant symptoms and requiring medical intervention due to the risk of severe complications. In some cases, removal of the meningioma brain tumor is necessary. However, such procedures near critical brain structures can carry risks, including potential damage to brain function the occurrence of seizures, and the risk of developing post-operative depression and anxiety.

The Link Between Depo-Provera and Brain Tumors

Is there a link between Depo-Provera and brain tumors? Researchers in a prominent national case control study, noted in publications like the British Medical Journal, have investigated the link between Depo-Provera and meningioma. This recent study examined over 100,000 women, many of whom were Depo-Provera users, and found an association between the prolonged use of injectable birth control like Depo-Provera and an increased risk of developing a brain tumor. Specifically, the use of Depo-Provera, which contains medroxyprogesterone acetate (a synthetic progesterone), was linked to a 5.6 times greater risk of an intercranial meningioma, requiring surgical intervention. This highlight concerns Depo-Provera use and the potential for a brain tumor. Further research continues to examine this connection.

Current Depo-Provera Lawsuits and Pfizer’s Responsibility

The October 1 filing signified the first Depo-Provera lawsuit specifically addressing meningioma concerns against Pfizer. The plaintiffs in such Depo-Provera claims often state they received regular injections of Depo-Provera (medroxyprogesterone acetate), the injectable contraceptive, for an extended period, sometimes more than a year or even more than two years. In this particular lawsuit, the individual was diagnosed with a meningioma brain tumor, which she alleges is a Depo-Provera-related tumor. This assertion is often based on the tumor growth location, consistent with where studies have found progesterone-mediated meningiomas tend to develop after Depo-Provera use. Pfizer faces charges including negligence, negligent design, and failure to warn users about the risk of brain tumors associated with the Depo-Provera shot.

How We Can Help with Your Depo-Provera Brain Tumor Claim

Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P.C. is actively investigating Depo-Provera claims related to brain tumors. If you believe your use of Depo-Provera has led to a brain tumor, or if you are seeking information on filing a Depo-Provera lawsuit, we encourage you to contact our experienced legal team for a free, no-obligation consultation. We can help you understand your legal options regarding the effects of Depo-Provera.

Could You Have a Depo-Provera Brain Tumor Case?

If your use of Depo-Provera extended for more than a year, specifically if you used Depo-Provera for at least three years before a meningioma diagnosis or discovery of a Depo-Provera brain issue, you may be eligible to pursue compensation. Many women in this situation wonder about their eligibility. An experienced product liability lawyer from Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P.C. can discuss your legal options. To determine if you have a viable claim related to Depo-Provera and a meningioma brain tumor, we will review your medical records and consider:

Duration of Depo-Provera use.
Date of your meningioma diagnosis.
Recurrence of any brain tumors.
The nature of medical care received for the tumor.
Whether intervention was needed to address the meningioma growth.
Length of time you underwent medical care.
Complications from the meningioma or subsequent care.
Presence of vision issues or memory problems.
Impact on employment, such as lost wages, and the risk you were exposed to.

Why Choose Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P.C. for Your Depo-Provera Lawsuit

Successfully pursuing a Depo-Provera lawsuit for a brain tumor requires strong evidence. This includes detailed medical records, expert testimony, and establishing a clear link between Depo-Provera use and your meningioma diagnosis. The experienced attorneys at Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P.C. understand the complexities of litigation involving pharmaceutical companies. We can help you build a strong case and navigate settlement negotiations or, if necessary, take your Depo-Provera claim to court. Our firm has a strong track record in handling cases involving dangerous drugs and product liability cases, securing substantial compensation for affected patients. We have recovered over $2.7 billion through our relentless pursuit of justice and aim to hold Pfizer accountable.

Contact us today for a free case review with an experienced lawyer to discuss your concerns and how many women are affected by the health risks of this birth control shot.