Overview of Depo-Provera Lawsuits
Depo-Provera injections are a common type of contraceptive that hundreds of thousands of women in the United States use. Despite its popularity, it has not been immune to scrutiny in recent years. Many women are well aware of the drug’s tendency to cause serious side effects, but those known side effects are not the focus of the 2024 Depo-Provera lawsuit. Recent claims focus on the drug’s active ingredient, medroxyprogesterone acetate, and its potential to increase one’s risk for developing brain tumors like intracranial meningiomas.
Pfizer, one of the world’s most well-known pharmaceutical companies, has come under fire for these allegations against their drug Depo-Provera. Allegations in Depo lawsuits claim that Pfizer knew or should have known that Depo-Provera’s active ingredient had significant potential dangers. Despite this knowledge, they failed to warn consumers about the dangers of this drug.
If you have been diagnosed with a brain tumor after taking Depo-Provera, you may have a valid legal claim. Cases that have the potential to be consolidated into Multidistrict Litigation (MDLs) or class action lawsuits tend to be highly complicated and difficult for claimants to navigate alone. That is why we strongly recommend working with a Depo-Provera attorney at Miller Law. Our extensive experience handling product liability and defective drug claims works in favor of injured claimants. Not only can we answer any questions you may have about your case, but we can also provide strong representation in court.
To schedule a free consultation about your case, please call our office at 248-841-2200. You can also submit an online intake form or email us at depo@millerlawpc.com.
Depo-Provera Lawsuit Update – November 2024
Currently, many Depo-Provera users have begun filing claims against Pfizer, the drug’s manufacturer. Women across several states, including Indiana and California, have filed claims against Pfizer, alleging the company’s failure to warn about the active ingredient’s potential to cause an increased risk of brain tumors.
Currently, the Depo-Provera warning label does not say anything about the potentially increased risk of brain and spinal cord tumors. This is true despite multiple scientific studies connecting the use of Depo-Provera and its generic counterparts with the increased risk of brain and spinal cord tumors. Pfizer’s failure to warn about these increased risks has resulted in significant litigation with patients who have taken the medication and subsequently developed brain tumors.
Depo-Provera Brain Tumor Lawsuit
As a form of contraceptive and hormone replacement therapy, Depo-Provera has been in use for a long time. The drug was originally developed in 1959, then approved by the FDA in 1974. However, this approval was withdrawn just 4 years later due to the FDA’s concern that the drug could cause an increased risk of cancer. It was then reapproved by the FDA in 1992 as a contraceptive.
With this in mind, it came as no surprise when the British Medical Journal found a link between Depo-Provera use and the development of brain and spinal cord tumors. Additionally, a separate French study also showed links between Depo-Provera and meningiomas, which are tumors that grow in the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. There is a particularly large risk of developing something called an intracranial meningioma, which is a tumor that originates in the meninges. While these tumors are generally benign, they still require immediate medical attention and treatment.
Recent Depo-Provera lawsuits claim that Pfizer, the drug’s manufacturer, knew or should have known about this increased risk of tumor development. The lawsuits allege that Pfizer’s failure to warn patients and doctors about these risks and that they rushed the drug onto the market without conducting proper studies. The company also failed to update the medication’s warning label with information about the increased risk of brain and spinal cord tumors.
What Is Depo-Provera?
Depo-Provera is a birth control shot that contains medroxyprogesterone acetate as its active ingredient, which is a synthetic form of the hormone progestin. The injection is mostly used as a form of contraception, but healthcare providers also prescribe it to help manage conditions like heavy menstrual bleeding, endometriosis, and to reduce the risk of endometrial cancer.
Depo-Provera, also colloquially called the Depo shot, is administered once every 12 weeks. It is generally injected into the arm or the buttock area. It is intended to prevent pregnancy for up to 14 weeks after just one injection, so it’s easy to see why such a simple form of contraception is so popular with hundreds of thousands of women in the United States.
How Does Depo-Provera Work as Birth Control?
As a form of contraception, Depo-Provera works to prevent pregnancy by thinning the lining of the uterus, thickening cervical mucus, and inhibiting ovulation. When administered regularly, it is a highly effective form of contraception. Below, we explain in more detail how Depo-Provera contraceptive injections work to prevent pregnancy.
- Thinning of the uterine lining: When the lining of the uterus is thinner, it makes it more difficult for an egg to embed itself in the uterine wall. Therefore, with a thinner uterine lining, it is more difficult for an egg to implant in the uterus and develop further.
- Thickening the cervical mucus: The cervical mucus already makes it difficult for sperm to pass through the cervix to reach an egg. When the shot thickens the mucus, it is even more difficult for sperm to reach and fertilize an egg.
- Inhibiting ovulation: Ovulation occurs when the ovaries release an egg. The shot prevents the ovaries from releasing an egg, which virtually eliminates the chances of fertilization, and, therefore, pregnancy.
- Creating an unfavorable environment for sperm: The cervix is already a naturally inhospitable place for sperm. When patients take contraceptives like Depo-Provera, it becomes an even more dangerous place for sperm to be. This is due to the changes in the environment in the cervix that make it more dangerous for the sperm.
Despite how effective the birth control shot is, patients who use the medication, especially those using it long-term, may be at an increased risk of developing brain or spinal cord tumors.
What Is Depo-Provera Used For?
Depo-Provera birth control shots are primarily used as contraception. It is a long-acting and reversible form of birth control. However, many patients are taking Depo-Provera for other reasons, such as the following.
- Endometriosis management
- Heavy menstrual bleeding and painful periods
- Reducing the risk of endometrial cancer
- Treating uterine fibroids
- Managing hormonal imbalances
- Controlling postpartum bleeding
Depo-Provera Shot Side Effects
Many Depo-Provera patients are very familiar with its common side effects, particularly those that are common for contraceptives as a whole. Some of the more common side effects include weight gain, changes in menstruation, headaches, and decreases in libido. Irregular bleeding, mood changes, breast tenderness, and delays in return to fertility are also common.
Less common and more severe side effects of Depo-Provera include the following.
- Severe headaches and migraines
- Bloating and nausea
- Hair loss or excessive hair growth
- Allergic reactions
- Skin reactions, such as rashes or acne
- Injection site reactions, such as swelling, pain, and redness
- Bone density loss, which increases the risk of fractures and osteoporosis. Many healthcare providers recommend limiting the use of Depo to two years at a time unless it is necessary to continue using it.
Depo-Provera Long-Term Side Effects
Prolonged Depo-Provera usage is particularly likely to cause an increased risk of more severe side effects. Some of these serious side effects include irreversible loss of bone density, lasting menstrual issues, and delayed returns to fertility. Other notable and severe side effects can include an increased risk of certain types of cancer, severe depression, potentially harmful blood clots, changes in liver function, and vision problems.
Depo-Provera Side Effects After Stopping
Like many other hormonal contraceptives, Depo-Provera can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Some reported symptoms of withdrawal include fatigue, visual disturbances, eye pain, agitation, nausea, shaking, itching, and more. Many of these withdrawal symptoms are self-reported by patients who have stopped taking the medication.
Who Manufactures Depo-Provera?
Pfizer, Inc. is the manufacturer of Depo-Provera. They acquired the rights to manufacture, market, and distribute Depo through their merger with Pharmacia back in 2003. The drug has been widely distributed and used in different formulations, including the Depo-Provera Contraceptive Injection and the Depo-SubQ Provera 104. As the company responsible for the drug’s safety and quality, Pfizer failed to warn consumers about the potential risks for brain and spinal cord tumors associated with the medication.
What Are the Eligibility Criteria for Depo-Provera Lawsuits?
To qualify for a Depo-Provera lawsuit, claimants must be able to demonstrate that they meet the eligibility criteria. These eligibility criteria include the following.
- Patient must have received Depo-Provera injections at least twice. These injections must have been Depo-Provera, Depo-SubQ Provera, or an authorized generic version of the medication.
- Patient must have been diagnosed with a brain or spinal cord tumor (meningioma) after using the medication.
- Other factors that can influence a patient’s eligibility include the duration of the medication’s usage, the time elapsed since the patient’s last usage of the medication, their diagnosis, and the presence of brain or spinal cord tumors.
What Can Disqualify Someone From Filing a Depo-Provera Claim?
It’s important to understand what can disqualify one from filing a claim for injuries arising from a medroxyprogesterone acetate injection. There are many exclusions that can disqualify one from filing a claim, but we always recommend speaking with an attorney about your case before deciding not to pursue it.
Some factors that can disqualify one from filing a claim include the following.
- Using non-brand or unauthorized versions of Depo-Provera
- Not using the medication at least two or more times
- Having certain pre-existing conditions, such as having a history of brain tumors or other neurological conditions
- Getting a meningioma or brain tumor diagnosis before using the medication
- Having no diagnosed meningioma or brain tumor
- Using other contraceptives that may have contributed to their diagnosis
- Not filing their claim within the time limit
What Evidence Is Needed to File a Depo-Provera Lawsuit?
It’s important to provide substantial evidence to support your claim and give your case validity and weight in court. Our attorneys are here to help you do that by using our skills and experience to your advantage. To have a successful claim, you must have linked your Depo-Provera use with your diagnosis.
The following types of evidence can help you substantiate your claim.
- Medical records of prescriptions and doctor’s notes are very helpful in proving the validity of a claim
- Diagnosis records for brain tumors that linked Depo-Provera use with the diagnosis
- Personal testimony from the plaintiff
- Records of treatments and associated medical expenses
- Witness testimony from friends and family members
- Evidence showing the impact on the victim’s quality of life
What Damages Are Available to Victims in Depo-Provera Shot Lawsuits?
When claimants pursue compensation in cases that proceed to multidistrict litigation or class action suits, they often feel lost in the complex legal process. At Miller Law, our attorneys will help make the road to recovery as smooth as possible for you. If you or a loved one was diagnosed with a brain or spinal cord tumor after using Depo-Provera at least twice, you may be entitled to the following types of compensation.
- Past, current, and future medical expenses
- Past, current, and future lost wages
- Lost earning capacity
- Physical pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Disability or disfigurement
- Loss of consortium
- Other out-of-pocket expenses
- Legal fees
How to File a Depo-Provera Lawsuit
We strongly suggest scheduling a free case review with the attorneys at Miller Law or emailing us directly as depo@millerlawpc.com. Cases that involve potential mass tort litigation can be highly complex and difficult to navigate on one’s own. To file a Depo-Provera lawsuit, you must take the following steps.
- Confirm your eligibility. Before starting a lawsuit, ensure that you meet the criteria for filing. This typically involves having evidence of health issues linked to Depo-Provera, such as brain or spinal cord meningiomas or other serious side effects.
- Contact an attorney. Consult with an experienced attorney at Miller Law. We can assess your case, determine the strength of your claim, and guide you through the legal process.
- Gather evidence. Collect medical records, prescriptions, and any other documentation showing your use of Depo-Provera and the health issues you’ve faced. Your attorney can help gather any additional evidence needed to support your claim.
- File your claim. Once you and your attorney have built a strong case, they will file your claim. This process formally begins the lawsuit, allowing you to seek compensation from the responsible parties.
- Negotiate a settlement. It is likely that many lawsuits against Pfizer will settle outside of court. Your attorney will negotiate with the defendants to seek a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, pain and suffering, and any lost wages.
- Go to trial, if necessary. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your case may go to trial. Your attorney will represent you in court, presenting your case to secure compensation for your injuries.
- Monitor your health and follow up with your attorney. It’s important to keep monitoring your health and maintain open communication with your attorney. Updated medical information can be crucial to your case and any potential settlements or follow-up actions.
What Are the Potential Depo-Provera Lawsuit Settlement Amounts?
It is still much too early to guess how much a Depo-Provera lawsuit may be worth. The value of your case largely depends on the severity of your injuries, your lost wages, and your pain and suffering. Because we are still in the early stages of litigation, any estimates are purely speculative. Based on past recovery amounts in similar cases, typical settlement amounts can range widely. Some cases range from tens of thousands to over a hundred thousand dollars in value. Others may exceed $1 million in value. Again, these amounts are purely speculative.
The potential value of your claim hinges on several factors, which an attorney can analyze. For example, a patient who underwent brain surgery because of their injuries will likely receive a higher payout than one who did not.
Factors Influencing Depo-Provera Payouts
The potential compensation amounts for Depo-Provera brain tumor lawsuits vary widely depending on several factors. These factors can include the following.
- Severity of the condition: The severity of the health complications caused by Depo-Provera, such as developing brain tumors, can have a major impact on compensation. Severe or permanent conditions may lead to higher settlements or awards, as they often require ongoing treatment and can severely affect quality of life.
- Loss of wages and earning capacity: If your health issues have caused you to miss work or limited your future earning potential, this lost income may be factored into your payout. Courts and insurers may consider your age, occupation, and anticipated career growth to calculate the financial impact of the injuries on your earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for pain and suffering is intended to address the physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life caused by Depo-Provera side effects. This can be a significant portion of the payout, especially for conditions that cause chronic pain or mental anguish.
- Legal and medical expert testimony: Testimonies from medical experts, economists, and legal professionals can strengthen your case by establishing the link between Depo-Provera and your condition and supporting your claims for damages. Credible, compelling testimony often increases the chances of a favorable payout, either through settlement negotiations or in court.
What is the Statute of Limitations for Filing a Depo-Provera Lawsuit?
Depending on the state where your claim is filed, a Depo-Provera lawsuit statute of limitations can range from one to six years. This means that there is only a certain window of time between when you discovered the link between your injuries and the use of the medication, in which you can file a lawsuit. We strongly recommend scheduling a free consultation with our attorneys to see if you have a valid claim or emailing us directly at depo@millerlawpc.com.
Depo-Provera Shot Lawsuit FAQs
What Happens if You Take Depo-Provera for More Than 2 Years?
Prolonged Depo-Provera use can potentially lead to serious health issues or an increased risk for serious health issues. In its injectable form, most doctors do not recommend taking the medication for more than two years at a time unless it is necessary for treatment. If someone takes the drug for two years or more, their doctor should regularly monitor their health for bone density loss and meningiomas.
Can You Die from a Benign Meningioma?
While benign meningiomas are noncancerous brain tumors, they can still be life-threatening in certain cases. These tumors can grow and press on critical areas of the brain, potentially causing neurological complications, seizures, or even death if not properly managed or treated. This is why these brain tumors are such serious complications that can arise from Depo-Provera use.
How Do You Know When Depo-Provera is Out of Your System?
Depo-Provera, a hormone medication used as an injectable contraceptive, gradually leaves your system over time. For most people, it takes about 12 to 14 weeks for the medication’s effects to diminish, though traces can linger longer, particularly in individuals who have been using it for an extended period.
Signs that Depo-Provera is out of your system may include the return of regular menstrual cycles and natural hormone balance, though it can take several months to a year for fertility to return to normal after stopping the injections.
Can Depo-Provera Cause Infertility?
The use of Depo-Provera can delay the return of fertility after stopping the injections. Many individuals find it takes several months, or even up to a year, for normal ovulation to resume, but this delay is temporary for most people. Depo-Provera is not associated with permanent infertility as a direct effect, though certain individuals may face other serious risks, such as bone density loss or brain tumors, that could affect reproductive health indirectly.
How Long Can You be on the Depo-Provera Shot?
The Depo-Provera shot, a contraceptive injection, is generally recommended for use up to two years. Prolonged use beyond this period may increase the risk of bone density loss, which can potentially lead to osteoporosis.
Contact the Depo-Provera Lawsuit Attorneys at Miller Law Today
If you or someone you love was diagnosed with a spinal cord or brain tumor linked to Depo-Provera use, you may be eligible to take legal action and seek compensation for your losses. The Depo-Provera lawyers at Miller Law are here to help you with your drug injury claim. We are committed to serving as strong advocates on your behalf. To schedule your free consultation with us, please call our office at 248-841-2200, or email us directly at depo@millerlawpc.com.