Depo-Provera Linked to Brain Tumors

A recent study has revealed a concerning connection between the Depo-Provera birth control injection and an increased risk of brain tumors in women. 

Hundreds of thousands of women in the United States and millions worldwide have relied on Depo-Provera to help them take care of their reproductive health. However, this contraception that so many placed their trust in may now be responsible for dangerous brain tumors known as meningiomas.

Many women have bravely stepped forward and started lawsuits against Pfizer, the company that makes Depo-Provera. They claim that Pfizer knew or should have known about the risks but didn’t warn anyone.

At Osborne, Francis & Pettis, we have fought for people betrayed by harmful drugs for nearly a decade. We are proud to have built a reputation for fearlessly going against multimillion-dollar pharmaceutical companies. Reach out to us online or call (561) 293-2600 if you or a loved one have been affected by a brain tumor possibly linked to Depo-Provera. 

Depo-Provera has been on the market for decades. With over 60 years since the introduction of Depo-Provera, it’s troubling to think about how many women may have suffered from brain tumors unaware of the potential link.

Understanding Depo-Provera and Its Uses

Depo-Provera is a birth control injection manufactured by the pharmaceutical company Pfizer and administered every 3 months. Originally, it hit the market in 1959 as a way to manage menstruation, but, by 1992, the drug was approved for contraceptive use.

However, it’s important to note that the injection was banned as a contraceptive in 1978  because concerns arose that it may cause cancer.

Also known as the Depo shot or birth control shot, Depo-Provera has been touted as a safe and reliable form of birth control for women worldwide. In fact, by 2021, Depo-Provera became the 238th most commonly prescribed medication in the United States.

The injection contains the hormone progestin, which helps women from getting pregnant by stopping ovulation. Additionally, it makes the cervical mucus thicker, making it difficult for sperm to get through.

Women opt for Depo-Provera for a number of reasons. It’s a convenient choice for those who prefer not to take a daily birth control pill or for individuals who are unable to use estrogen-based methods. Additionally, it’s often prescribed for various medical issues, including:

• Anemia
• Seizures
• Sickle cell disease
• Endometriosis
• Uterine fibroids

It can also help lessen menstrual cramps and reduce flow. However, despite these advantages, there are significant concerns about a potential link between Depo-Provera and brain tumors.

“Osborne, Francis & Pettis Law Firm really worked my case. The staff was welcoming, and everyone that I spoke with was helpful. My lawyer, Ben Garcia, was very diligent and careful with my case, he also kept me informed about important details throughout the case and worked really aggressively, which resulted in winning. Thank you, Ben and Osborne, Francis & Pettis Law firm staff.”

- Client: Jolinda W.

Can Depo-Provera Cause Tumors?

Research published in the British Medical Journal in March 2024 uncovered a disturbing connection between Depo-Provera and brain tumors.

The study found that using Depo-Provera for more than a year increases the risk of developing a certain brain tumor called intracranial meningioma by 5.6 times. This data represents a major increase in cancer risk for a popular medication that is readily available to millions of women on the market.

In the depo-provera brain tumors study, French researchers looked into the link between certain hormonal treatments and the risk of brain tumors called meningiomas. The study checked health records for over 108,000 women, zeroing in on about 18,000 who had surgery for these tumors from 2009 to 2018.

It found that women who used specific progestogens, like Depo-Provera, faced a much higher risk of developing meningiomas—especially if they used these hormones for a year or more. Women who receive Depo-Provera injections are over 5 times more likely to suffer from brain tumors.

Although two other drugs used for menopause relief showed an increased risk of brain tumors, Depo-Provera produced the highest association among them.

Understanding the Dangers of Meningiomas

Does Depo-Provera cause brain tumors? New research suggests it possibly does.

Meningiomas are tumors that grow in the protective layers surrounding the brain and spinal cord. While they are often slow-growing and can be benign, meaning they are not cancerous, they can still cause serious problems.

Since they press against the brain or spinal cord, they can lead to:

• Headaches
• Vision changes
• Seizures
• Neurological issues

Furthermore, meningiomas grow very slowly, and it may take years for symptoms to present, so many women may be afflicted with these tumors without even knowing.

In some cases, these tumors may require surgery or radiation to relieve pressure and prevent further damage.

This latest study is raising red flags and inspiring women nationwide to file their own Depo-Provera brain tumor lawsuit. With so many women having used this birth control method over the decades, this study adds serious weight to claims that the company may have downplayed the risks.

At Osborne, Francis & Pettis, we fight for people harmed by dangerous drugs, not only to get them the justice they deserve but also to make the drug market safer for all. Contact us online or call (561) 293-2600 to learn how we can support you on your recovery journey.

Depo-Provera Brain Tumor Lawsuit Overview

People are filing lawsuits against Pfizer, arguing the company was allegedly aware or should have been aware of the potential dangers associated with Depo-Provera and failed to warn patients or doctors.

The previous label for Depo-Provera fails to include any warnings regarding brain tumors. Although it does highlight a slightly elevated risk for breast cancer, stroke, blood clots, and liver complications, it significantly overlooks the potential link to brain tumors.

Also, while Pfizer finally updated the prescribing information for Depo-Provera to include brain tumors in July 2024, it failed to update the official warning label, leaving many patients and healthcare providers in the dark about this alarming development.

This is a serious oversight of a severe side effect that every patient needs to know about.

How Do I Know If I Can File a Depo-Provera Lawsuit?

The CDC reports that around 24.5% of sexually active women have used the Depo-Provera injection for birth control at some point in their lives.

You may qualify for a Depo-Provera brain tumor lawsuit if you:

• Received Depo-Provera injections
• Were later diagnosed with a meningioma

If you are unsure about your eligibility or have more questions about Depo-Provera lawsuits, reach out to Osborne, Francis & Pettis today online or by calling (561) 293-2600.

Depo-Provera Lawsuit Settlements

These lawsuits are still in the early stages, so there are no Depo-Provera settlements at this time. While there is no guarantee as to the amount of financial support you may be able to receive in a claim, you could potentially get compensation to take care of the following:

• Medical Expenses: A lawsuit can help cover costs related to your tumor removal surgery, radiation, hospital stays, doctor visits, medical bills, and any necessary therapy.
• Lost Income: If your surgery keeps you from working, a lawsuit can compensate you for the wages you lost during your recovery period or for future earnings if you’re unable to return to work.
• Pain and Suffering: Dealing with a tumor can be incredibly stressful and painful. Through a lawsuit, you can seek financial support for the suffering you've endured, both physically and emotionally.
• Punitive Damages: This type of payment is meant to make a company take responsibility for its actions. It usually happens when a company knows its drug is dangerous but still decides to sell it. The idea is to punish them for putting people at risk and prevent other companies from doing the same.

“It’s a tragedy that a choice meant to empower women—like managing their reproductive health—has resulted in invasive surgeries and grueling radiation treatments. The traumatic impact Depo-Provera has reportedly had on women should not go unanswered. Our firm stands ready to hold those responsible accountable and ensure no other woman has to endure this kind of suffering.”

- Attorney Joseph Osborne

A Dangerous Drug Injury Attorney Can Support You

Pfizer is a multi-billion dollar drug company that likely has the money, time, and its own legal team to combat these cases.  

Enlisting the help of a defective drug lawyer can benefit your case, as they know the tactics big companies use to protect their interests and will stop at nothing to fight for the compensation you need to get your life back on track.

An experienced legal team will handle all of the negotiations with the defendant’s lawyers, so you can focus on what’s most important: your recovery.

Additionally, having a lawyer on your side may improve your chances of getting compensation. A Martindale-Nolo study found that people who hired a lawyer for their personal injury case received payouts averaging $77,600, compared to just $17,600 for those who tried to represent themselves.