New Research Linking Depo-Provera and Meningioma Brain Tumors Leads to Lawsuits

A large-scale study published in 2024 provides compelling evidence that Depo-Provera, a widely used injectable contraceptive, significantly increases the risk of certain brain tumors. Lawsuits against Pfizer, the drug’s manufacturer, have followed. If you used Depo-Provera or one of its generic formulations and developed a meningioma brain tumor, you should consult an attorney. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is Depo-Provera?

Depo-Provera is an injectable drug containing a synthetic form of the hormone progestin. It prevents ovulation, thickens cervical mucus to block sperm, and thins the uterine lining to reduce the likelihood of pregnancy. Because it is injected once every three months, it is a low-maintenance, minimally invasive, and relatively low-cost option for contraception. The drug was first approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1992.

Linking Depo-Provera With Increased Brain Tumor Risks

A significant new scientific study’s findings were published in the British Medical Journal in March 2024. The study analyzed records related to 108,366 women in the French National Health Data System, including 18,061 who underwent surgery for meningioma – a type of brain tumor. The study investigated the relationship between the long-term use of various hormone medications known as progestogens and the risk of developing meningioma.

The study observed that the occurrence rate of meningioma was five times higher in women who used the specific progesterone in Depo-Provera, depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) for over a year, than those who did not. Although previous studies had pointed to a link between Depo-Provera and meningiomas, the size and scope of the new study provides the strongest evidence to date.

What Are Meningiomas?

A meningioma is a type of brain tumor that grows in the protective membranes that cover the brain. Meningiomas are the most common type of brain tumor; they are slow-growing and can remain asymptomatic for many years. Although most are non-cancerous, that is not always the case.

Depending on the size and location of the meningioma, it can cause the following symptoms:

• Headaches
• Vision changes, such as double vision or blurriness
• Hearing loss or ringing in the ears
• Memory loss
• Loss of smell
• Seizures
• Weakness in the arms or legs
• Trouble speaking
• Dizziness
• Nausea and vomiting 

Many women have a meningioma for years before it is discovered.  Often these brain tumors are found when women undergo a MRI or CT of the brain as a result of an auto accident, concussion or some other head injury.

Treating early-stage meningiomas involves regular monitoring with MRIs and CT scans, which are expensive, inconvenient, and stressful. Surgery is recommended for more extensive or later-stage tumors or those located near the spinal cord. Although modern surgical techniques have excellent success rates in treating meningiomas, surgery always has risks (and costs).

Manufacturer Liability and Lawsuits

There appears to be evidence that Pfizer may have known of the risks but failed to warn consumers or medical providers. This failure to warn is one of the legal bases for the current lawsuits against the manufacturer. Plaintiffs may also bring deceptive marketing claims that allege the manufacturer misrepresented the drug’s risks while emphasizing its benefits.

Pfizer developed and manufactured a lower-dose version of Depo-Provera called Depo-SubQ Provera 104 with significantly lower risks of adverse effects like meningiomas. Nevertheless, the manufacturer continued to manufacture and promote the high-dose version without warning doctors or consumers about potential dangers. These facts will be persuasive to any jury hearing these cases.

Have a Case? Contact an Attorney

Although there is a limit on the statute of limitations or the amount of time you have to bring a lawsuit, calculating this deadline isn’t always straightforward. Different claims have different statutes of limitation.

Women who took Depo-Provera for at least a year and developed a meningioma should contact an attorney immediately to discuss their options. As the number of Depo-Provera cases grow, these cases will likely be consolidated and pursued as one large litigation. An attorney can help you understand how to pursue your claims and recover compensation.

The skilled team of Sommers Schwartz, P.C. attorneys has the experience and expertise to pursue Depo-Provera claims and recover the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Contact us today to set up a free, no-obligation consultation.