Chicago, IL (September 4, 2024) – The popular birth control injection Depo-Provera may be linked to brain tumors, according to recent studies. Plaintiffs in current lawsuits allege that the drug’s manufacturer, Pfizer, did not warn consumers about the risk.
If you used Depo-Provera, Depo-SubQ Provera, or a generic version of the “birth control shot” and you developed a brain tumor, you may qualify for a Depo-Provera lawsuit.
The attorneys at Ankin Law would like to evaluate your case free of charge. Our legal team has over 100 years of combined experience in product liability cases involving dangerous medications and medical devices. If you’re eligible for an injury lawsuit, we can help you recover compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
What Is Depo-Provera?
Depo-Provera is a hormonal contraceptive injection that contains medroxyprogesterone acetate, a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone. The injection works by preventing ovulation, thickening cervical mucus to block sperm, and thinning the lining of the uterus to prevent implantation. Administered once every three months, Depo-Provera is a convenient and effective contraceptive option that eliminates the need for daily pills. When used correctly, Depo-Provera is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy, making it one of the most reliable contraceptive options available.
In addition to its use as a contraceptive, Depo-Provera is also prescribed to manage symptoms of endometriosis, reduce the risk of uterine cancer, and treat other gynecological conditions. Despite its widespread use, the drug has been associated with various side effects, including weight gain, menstrual irregularities, and decreased bone density. More recently, concerns have emerged about the potential for Depo-Provera to increase the risk of developing brain tumors.
Depo-Provera and its generic counterparts have been used by millions of women worldwide since the drug’s approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1992.
The Link Between Depo-Provera and Brain Tumors
Recent studies have suggested a link between the use of Depo-Provera and the development of brain tumors, particularly meningiomas. Meningiomas are tumors that form in the meninges, the protective membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. Although most meningiomas are benign (non-cancerous), they can still cause serious health problems due to their location and potential to grow and press on critical areas of the brain.
Research highlights concerns about the association between progestin-based contraceptives, like Depo-Provera, and an increased risk of meningioma.
In a study published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) in March 2024, researchers found that women who used injectable medroxyprogesterone acetate for a prolonged period were 5.6 times more likely to develop meningioma.
Understanding Meningiomas
Meningiomas are the most common type of primary brain tumor, accounting for about 30% of all brain tumors. While the majority of meningiomas are benign, they can still lead to significant health issues, including headaches, seizures, vision problems, and cognitive difficulties. In some cases, meningiomas may become malignant (cancerous) and require aggressive treatment, such as surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.
The exact cause of meningiomas is not well understood, but hormonal factors are believed to play a role in their development. This is supported by the fact that meningiomas are more common in women than in men, and their growth may be influenced by hormones like progesterone. Given that Depo-Provera is a progestin-based contraceptive, it is plausible that its use could increase the risk of developing meningiomas, especially with long-term use.
Depo-Provera Lawsuits
If you or a loved one used Depo-Provera, Depo-SubQ Provera, or a generic form of the birth control shot and developed a brain tumor, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Pharmaceutical companies like Pfizer have a legal responsibility to ensure that their products are safe for use and to provide adequate warnings about potential risks. If a drug manufacturer fails to fulfill this duty, they can be held liable for any harm caused by their product.
In cases involving Depo-Provera and brain tumors, affected individuals may be able to file a product liability lawsuit against the drug manufacturer Pfizer on the basis that the pharmaceutical giant did not provide adequate warnings about the link between the birth control shot and brain tumors.
Product liability claims like this one will typically fall into one of three categories:
- Design Defects: Claims based on design defects argue that the drug was inherently dangerous due to its formulation, even when used as intended.
- Manufacturing Defects: These claims allege that a mistake or contamination occurred during the production of the drug, leading to a defective product.
- Failure to Warn: Failure to warn claims argue that the drug manufacturer did not provide adequate warnings about the risks associated with the drug, preventing users from making informed decisions about their health.
For Depo-Provera users who have developed brain tumors, a failure to warn claim may be the most applicable. If the drug manufacturer did not adequately warn users about the risk of brain tumors, they could be held liable for any resulting injuries.
Do You Qualify for a Depo-Provera Lawsuit?
You may qualify for a Depo-Provera birth control lawsuit if you took the birth control shot and were later diagnosed with meningioma. You must meet certain criteria to take legal action, however.
To qualify for a Depo-Provera brain tumor lawsuit:
- You must have taken Depo-Provera, Depo-SubQ Provera or a generic form of the birth control shot containing medroxyprogesterone acetate for birth control or endometriosis.
- You must have a confirmed diagnosis of meningioma after receiving the birth control injection.
Steps to Take if You’ve Experienced Brain Tumor Symptoms After Using Depo-Provera
If you suspect that your use of Depo-Provera has led to the development of a brain tumor, it is important to take the following steps:
- Seek Medical Attention: If you are experiencing symptoms of a brain tumor, such as persistent headaches, vision changes, or seizures, seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing brain tumors and preventing further complications.
- Document Your Medical History: Keep detailed records of your medical history, including when you began using Depo-Provera, any side effects you experienced, and the timeline of your symptoms. This information will be important if you decide to pursue a legal claim.
- Consult Our Product Liability Attorneys: Contact an experienced product liability attorney at Ankin Law who can evaluate your case and advise you on your legal options. An attorney can help you determine whether you have a valid claim and guide you through the process of filing a lawsuit.
- Consider Joining a Class Action Lawsuit: In some cases, individuals who have been harmed by a defective drug like Depo-Provera may join together to file a class action lawsuit. This can be an effective way to pursue compensation, especially if a large number of people have been affected by the same issue.
The link between Depo-Provera and brain tumors is a serious concern that warrants further investigation. While the research is still ongoing, the evidence suggests that long-term use of progestin-based contraceptives may increase the risk of developing meningiomas. If you or a loved one used Depo-Provera and developed a brain tumor, it is important to explore your legal options and seek compensation for your injuries.At Ankin Law, we are committed to helping individuals who have been harmed by defective drugs and medical products. Our experienced attorneys can provide the guidance and support you need to navigate the legal process and achieve a favorable outcome. If you believe that your use of Depo-Provera has led to the development of a brain tumor, contact us today for a free consultation.
