Depo-Provera Lawsuits: Seeking Justice for Brain Tumor Victims
Depo-Provera, a widely used injectable contraceptive manufactured by Pfizer Inc. (and its subsidiaries like Pharmacia & Upjohn Co.), has provided a convenient birth control option for millions of women for decades. However, recent scientific studies and a rapidly growing number of lawsuits allege a concerning link between prolonged use of Depo-Provera and the development of meningioma brain tumors.
If you or a loved one used Depo-Provera (or its authorized generics like Depo-SubQ Provera 104) for an extended period and were subsequently diagnosed with a meningioma, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit and seek significant compensation. Tort Portal is dedicated to connecting you with experienced legal professionals who are actively pursuing these critical claims against Pfizer for failing to adequately warn about these serious health risks.
What is Depo-Provera?
Depo-Provera (medroxyprogesterone acetate, or MPA) is a progestin-only injectable birth control method. It works by preventing ovulation, thickening cervical mucus to block sperm, and thinning the uterine lining. Administered every three months, it has been a popular choice due to its convenience and high efficacy in preventing pregnancy. It is also sometimes prescribed for conditions like endometriosis.
The Alleged Link to Meningioma Brain Tumors
The primary focus of current Depo-Provera litigation is the alleged link between its active ingredient, medroxyprogesterone acetate, and the development of meningiomas. Meningiomas are typically slow-growing tumors that form in the meninges, the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. While often benign, their growth can put pressure on the brain or spinal cord, leading to serious neurological symptoms and potentially requiring surgery, radiation, or other intensive medical interventions.
Key allegations in Depo-Provera lawsuits include:
- Scientific Evidence: Multiple studies, particularly a significant French national case-control study published in 2023, have provided strong evidence linking prolonged use of progestogens like MPA to a significantly increased risk of developing meningiomas (some studies suggest a risk up to 5.6 times higher for long-term users).
- Failure to Warn: Lawsuits contend that Pfizer knew or should have known about these risks, given emerging international research and the fact that warnings about meningioma risks were added to Depo-Provera packaging in Europe and Canada as early as 2022. Despite this, U.S. warning labels allegedly remained inadequate, depriving American patients and doctors of crucial safety information.
- Negligence: Allegations of negligence in product design, testing, and marketing, prioritizing profits over patient safety.
Common Symptoms of Meningiomas (that may prompt a lawsuit investigation):
- Chronic and worsening headaches
- Vision changes (blurred vision, double vision, loss of peripheral vision)
- Seizures (new onset or increased frequency)
- Dizziness or vertigo
- Nausea and vomiting without other known cause
- Memory issues or difficulty concentrating
- Weakness or numbness on one side of the body
- Personality changes or mood disorders
- Hearing problems (e.g., ringing in the ears)
Other Serious Side Effects of Depo-Provera
While meningiomas are the current focus of litigation, Depo-Provera has also been associated with other serious side effects, some of which have been the subject of past lawsuits or regulatory warnings:
- Bone Density Loss (Osteoporosis): Depo-Provera can lead to significant decreases in bone mineral density, increasing the risk of fractures, especially with long-term use (often leading to a recommendation not to use for more than two years continuously without bone density monitoring). Past lawsuits addressed inadequate warnings about this risk.
- Delayed Return to Fertility: It can take 10 months or more on average for fertility to return after discontinuing Depo-Provera, which can be a significant concern for women planning future pregnancies.
- Blood Clots: Although less frequently cited in current Depo-Provera litigation compared to other hormonal contraceptives, progestin-only methods can carry a theoretical risk of blood clots.
- Depression and Mood Changes: Hormonal fluctuations can contribute to mental health impacts.
Current Status of Depo-Provera Lawsuits (as of mid-June 2025)
The Depo-Provera litigation is rapidly expanding, with significant activity in federal courts.
- Multidistrict Litigation (MDL 3140): In February 2025, the U.S. Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) consolidated all federal Depo-Provera lawsuits into MDL No. 3140, centralized in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida under Judge M. Casey Rodgers. This consolidation aims to streamline pretrial proceedings for the growing number of similar claims.
- Rapidly Increasing Case Count: As of early June 2025, the MDL has grown to over 348 active cases, with dozens more being filed monthly. Legal experts anticipate this number to rise significantly as more women become aware of the potential link between their Depo-Provera use and meningioma diagnosis.
- Pilot Cases & Discovery: The court has selected five “pilot cases” to proceed through early discovery, and strict deadlines are being set for discovery (e.g., federal preemption issues discovery by July 25, 2025, general causation discovery by September 23, 2025). This indicates the litigation is moving forward quickly.
- Eligibility and Documentation: Plaintiffs are required to provide documentary proof of Depo-Provera use (typically for at least one year/four shots) and a confirmed diagnosis of an intracranial meningioma that occurred after their use.
- No Broad Settlements Yet: While the litigation is gaining momentum, widespread settlements are not currently active, as the cases are still in the early discovery phases. However, the rapid growth and the establishment of an MDL suggest increasing pressure on Pfizer.
- Generic Depo-Provera Lawsuits: Claims involving authorized generic versions of Depo-Provera may also be permitted, with plaintiffs arguing that Pfizer maintained control over labeling and profits even for these products.
Plaintiffs in these lawsuits are seeking compensation for various damages, including:
- Medical expenses (including diagnosis, surgery, radiation, and ongoing treatment for meningiomas).
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity due to the illness and its treatment.
- Significant pain and suffering.
- Emotional distress and mental anguish.
- Disability and long-term care costs.
- Wrongful death damages for families who lost loved ones due to Depo-Provera-related complications.
- Punitive damages, if Pfizer’s conduct is deemed reckless or intentional.
Do You Qualify for a Depo-Provera Lawsuit?
You may be eligible to file a Depo-Provera lawsuit if:
- You used Depo-Provera or an authorized generic for a period of at least one year (or approximately 4 injections).
- You were diagnosed with an intracranial meningioma (brain tumor).
- Your meningioma diagnosis occurred after your Depo-Provera use began.
It is absolutely essential to act quickly. Strict statutes of limitations (legal deadlines) apply to filing these types of lawsuits, and these deadlines vary significantly by state. Consulting with an attorney as soon as possible is crucial to preserve your legal rights and ensure your claim is not time-barred.
Let Tort Portal Connect You with Depo-Provera Legal Experts
Navigating a dangerous drug lawsuit against a major pharmaceutical company like Pfizer requires highly specialized legal knowledge, extensive resources, and a deep understanding of complex medical and scientific evidence.
Tort Portal can help. We specialize in connecting individuals affected by Depo-Provera with leading law firms that have proven expertise and a strong track record in pharmaceutical mass tort litigation. Our partner attorneys are at the forefront of the Depo-Provera lawsuits, committed to investigating your claim thoroughly, advocating fiercely on your behalf, and pursuing the maximum compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one developed a meningioma after using Depo-Provera, don’t face this immense challenge alone. Take the first step toward understanding your legal options and securing the justice you deserve.