Paragard, the only non-hormonal intrauterine device (IUD) available in the United States, has gained popularity among women seeking long-term birth control without synthetic hormones. However, concerns about serious complications, including copper toxicity, are pushing the device into the spotlight for all the wrong reasons. Women across the country are coming forward, alleging that Paragard caused severe health issues — and lawsuits are following.
Table of Contents
If you are considering Paragard, are currently using it, or have experienced unexplained health problems after insertion, understanding the link between Paragard and copper toxicity is critical.
What We Know About Paragard
Paragard is a small, T-shaped plastic device wrapped with a thin coil of copper wire. Approved by the FDA in 1984, it prevents pregnancy primarily by releasing copper ions, which create an inflammatory reaction that is toxic to sperm. Once inserted, Paragard can remain effective for up to 10 years.
Unlike hormonal IUDs, Paragard does not rely on progesterone or estrogen. Instead, its effectiveness hinges on copper’s natural spermicidal properties. However, the very presence of copper inside the uterus for extended periods has raised serious questions about long-term safety.
What We Know About Copper Toxicity
Copper toxicity occurs when there is an excessive accumulation of copper in the body. Copper is an essential trace mineral that plays a role in many bodily functions, but too much can be dangerous. Elevated copper levels can cause a range of mild to severe symptoms, including:
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Mood disorders such as anxiety and depression
- Neurological issues, including confusion and irritability
- Liver damage in extreme cases
In the long term, copper toxicity can cause heart failure, brain damage, kidney problems, and it can even be fatal.
Typically, copper overload happens due to environmental exposure, contaminated water, genetic conditions like Wilson’s disease, or — increasingly — from medical devices like Paragard.
Can Paragard Cause Copper Toxicity?
The short answer: Yes, Paragard can cause copper toxicity — though it’s not guaranteed.
Medical literature and patient reports suggest that some individuals with Paragard develop symptoms consistent with copper toxicity. Here’s how it happens:
Copper Release and Systemic Absorption
When Paragard is in place, it releases copper ions continuously. While the primary action occurs locally within the uterus, some copper can be absorbed systemically into the bloodstream. Over time, especially in individuals who are sensitive or have impaired copper metabolism, levels can build up, potentially leading to toxicity.
Device Breakage and Migration
Another alarming issue is Paragard breakage during removal. If parts of the device — particularly the copper-wrapped arms — fracture and migrate, copper can leach directly into surrounding tissues, creating an even greater risk for elevated copper exposure.
Lack of Clear Warnings About the Link Between Paragard and Copper Toxicity
Teva Pharmaceuticals and CooperSurgical, the companies that have marketed and sold Paragard, have been criticized for failing to adequately warn users about the risks of copper toxicity. Current packaging mentions general risks associated with IUDs, but many argue that it downplays the specific dangers of copper overload.
Symptoms of Copper Toxicity That Women Are Reporting
Women who allege copper toxicity from Paragard commonly report a range of symptoms that go far beyond typical IUD side effects. These include:
- Extreme fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest
- Severe mood swings, anxiety, and depression
- Hair loss
- Chronic headaches
- Joint and muscle pain
- Gastrointestinal issues like bloating, nausea, and diarrhea
- Cognitive problems, often described as “brain fog”
In many cases, these symptoms improve after the IUD is removed — but not always immediately. Some women require medical treatment, including chelation therapy, to reduce copper levels in their bodies.
The Growing Number of Paragard Lawsuits
Given the volume of complaints, it’s no surprise that Paragard lawsuits are on the rise nationwide. Women are filing personal injury claims alleging that the IUD:
- Is defectively designed and manufactured
- Breaks apart during removal, necessitating surgery
- Causes copper toxicity and other systemic health issues
- Was marketed without adequate warnings about serious risks
Currently, hundreds of cases have been consolidated into multidistrict litigation (MDL) in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia. Plaintiffs are seeking compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages.
How Copper Toxicity Is Diagnosed
If you suspect you’re experiencing symptoms of copper toxicity after Paragard use, you need to seek medical advice immediately. Diagnosis typically involves:
Blood Tests for Copper Toxicity
Serum copper and ceruloplasmin levels are tested to determine if copper is elevated in the bloodstream. However, these tests don’t always tell the full story, especially if copper is accumulating in tissues rather than circulating freely.
Urine Tests to Detect Copper Toxicity
Twenty-four-hour urine copper tests are often used to assess how much copper is being excreted. Abnormally high or low levels can indicate a problem.
Hair Analysis to Detect Copper Overload
Some alternative medicine practitioners use hair tissue mineral analysis to detect chronic copper overload. While controversial, this method can offer insights in cases where standard tests fall short.
Treatment Options for Copper Toxicity Caused by Paragard
If copper toxicity is confirmed, treatment will depend on severity. Options include:
Chelation Therapy
This involves administering agents that bind to copper and help eliminate it through the urine. Chelation must be carefully monitored to avoid complications.
Supportive Therapy
Nutritional approaches, including high doses of zinc, molybdenum, and antioxidants, can help rebalance mineral levels and promote copper detoxification.
Surgical Removal
If Paragard remains in place and is suspected to be the source, removal of the IUD — sometimes surgically if breakage has occurred — is necessary to halt ongoing exposure.
What You Should Do If You Suspect Copper Toxicity From Paragard
If you believe Paragard has caused you to develop copper toxicity, take action immediately to protect your wellbeing and your right to recover compensation from the makers of the IUD. Here’s a basic roadmap on how to proceed:
- Seek medical evaluation to confirm copper levels. Be sure to tell your doctor you have a Paragard copper IUD.
- Document your symptoms thoroughly, and note any missed time from work.
- Get copies of all medical records related to your Paragard insertion, follow-up care, and any removal procedures.
- Contact a knowledgeable attorney who is experienced in defective medical device cases.
Remember: Paragard manufacturers have teams of lawyers protecting their interests. You need strong legal representation on your side to fight for your rights.
The issues with Paragard are not just a matter of individual lawsuits — they reflect broader systemic failures in how medical devices are designed, tested, and marketed. Inadequate long-term studies, insufficient warnings, and corporate profit motives too often leave patients paying the price for industry negligence.
As Paragard lawsuits progress, more information is likely to come to light about what manufacturers knew — and when they knew it. Future regulations and design changes may eventually make IUDs safer, but for now, patients must remain vigilant.
Compensation in Paragard Copper Toxicity Lawsuits
Patients who developed copper toxicity caused by the Paragard IUD may be eligible to recover substantial compensation. Paragard IUD lawsuit settlement amounts will likely be higher for victims who suffered the most serious of injuries. If you developed copper toxicity and your lawsuit is successful, you may receive compensation for:
- Medical bills, including hospitalizations, surgery to remove the IUD, and medications
- Lost wages, including the past and future earnings your injuries caused you to lose
- Pain and suffering damages, including physical pain and emotional suffering
Copper Toxicity From Paragard? Here’s How Ankin Law Can Help
At Ankin Law, we believe manufacturers must be held accountable when their products harm consumers. If you’ve suffered copper toxicity or other complications linked to Paragard, our experienced mass tort lawyers are ready to fight for you.
We have the resources and commitment needed to go toe-to-toe with major corporations. We will investigate your claim thoroughly, build a strong case, and pursue the maximum compensation you deserve.
Don’t let corporate negligence derail your life. If Paragard caused you harm, it’s time to demand justice — and Ankin Law is here to make sure your voice is heard.
Contact Ankin Law in Chicago today for a free consultation. Call 312-600-0000. Let’s talk about your legal options and start building your path to recovery.
