A recent study found that the popular birth control Depo-Provera has been linked to a higher risk of developing rare brain tumors known as meningiomas. Though meningiomas are typically noncancerous and slow growing, they can still cause complications by exerting pressure on the brain. Surgery is often required to remove these tumors, and while meningiomas are rarely life-threatening, the proximity to critical brain structures can make surgical intervention risky.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a brain tumor after using Depo-Provera, contact the Minnesota defective product attorneys at Goldenberg Lauricella. Our team of Depo-Provera lawyers has nearly 40 years of experience representing individuals injured by dangerous medications. In this time, we have successfully represented hundreds of women harmed by other birth control medications. Contact us today for a free Depo-Provera lawsuit consultation.
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Study Links Depo-Provera to Brain Tumor Risk
France’s National Agency for Medicines and Health Products Safety analyzed the cases of 18,061 women who underwent surgery to remove meningiomas between 2009 and 2018. By comparing these cases with healthy women of similar demographics, the study found that persistent use of Depo-Provera—defined as more than 12 months— was associated with an increased risk of meningioma in three specific progestogens; including medrogestone, promegestone, and the injectable contraceptive Depo-Provera (medroxyprogesterone acetate).
The study, which examined data from French healthcare records, showed a 4.1 to 5.6-fold increased risk for certain progestogens, but no increased risk for other commonly used forms like progesterone or hormonal intrauterine systems.
Depo-Provera Injuries & Symptoms
Long term use of Depo-Provera has been linked to brain tumors known as meningiomas. Common symptoms of meningiomas include:
- Persistent headaches
- Fatigue
- Vision disturbances
- Cognitive impairments
- Epilepsy
- Motor dysfunction
- Speech disorders
- Depression
- Anxiety
Further complications can occur after tumor removal surgery, including:
- Hematoma
- Infection
- Neurological decline
- Death
What Are Meningiomas?
Meningiomas account for about 40% of tumors found in the central nervous system. These tumors are generally benign, meaning they are not cancerous. However, due to their location near the brain and spinal cord, they can still lead to serious neurological issues, depending on their size and placement.
What is Depo-Provera?
Depo-Provera (often called the “birth control shot”) is an injectable contraceptive that contains medroxyprogesterone acetate, a form of progestin. It is administered once every three months and is designed to prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, and thinning the uterine lining. This method has been favored by many people because it eliminates the need for daily pills or frequent maintenance. However, the convenience comes with potential risks that have become the focus of the legal battle.
Medroxyprogesterone acetate was originally developed in the 1950s as a treatment for uterine cancer. It was first introduced for medical use in the United States in 1959. In 1972, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) denied approval of Depo-Provera as a contraceptive due to safety concerns, but the drug was still widely promoted and distributed in many countries.
Depo-Provera was approved for contraceptive use in the U.S. in 1992. Now, it is widely used as a birth control method, and for treating conditions such as endometriosis, abnormal uterine bleeding, and certain types of cancer.
Depo-Provera Lawsuits
Numerous lawsuits have been filed against pharmaceutical giant Pfizer, claiming that Depo-Provera has caused serious and lasting health issues such as brain tumors.
The lawsuits against Pfizer center around claims of negligence, failure to warn, and products liability. Plaintiffs argue that Pfizer knew about the risks of users developing injuries such as brain tumors but did not provide adequate warnings or information to consumers. They claim that if they had been fully informed of the risks, they might have chosen a different form of contraception or limited their use of Depo-Provera.
The Future of Depo-Provera
While Depo-Provera remains on the market, the lawsuits have prompted greater scrutiny of long-term contraceptive options and their potential risks. For women who have used or are considering Depo-Provera, it’s important to have an open conversation with healthcare providers about the risks and benefits. In April 2024, Pfizer acknowledged the BMJ study, stating, “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.”
Contact Goldenberg Lauricella’s Depo-Provera Lawyers
If you or a loved one used Depo-Provera birth control injections and developed a meningioma, contact one of Minnesota Depo-Provera attorneys today to discuss your potential case. We have the experience you need to successfully bring a birth control lawsuit. Contact us today to schedule your free Depo-Provera lawsuit consultation.