Who Is Accountable for Failing to Warn Women of Brain Tumor Risks?

If you or a loved one developed a brain tumor after using the birth control medication Depo-Provera or a generic version, you may be entitled to compensation. KNR’s experienced injury attorneys are here to help you understand your rights, explore legal options, and pursue the justice you deserve. Call 1-800-HURT-NOW for a free initial case evaluation. There’s no cost unless you recover compensation.

What is Depo-Provera & Why Are Lawsuits Being Filed?

Depo-Provera is long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) widely used by women to prevent pregnancy, administered every three months. While effective, recent studies have linked prolonged use of Depo-Provera, medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA), and depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) to higher risks of developing meningiomas— brain & spinal tumors that can cause serious health complications.

These findings have led to numerous lawsuits against Pfizer, the drug’s manufacturer, alleging failure to warn patients of these risks. If you used Depo-Provera and were later diagnosed with a brain tumor, KNR may be able to help.

Prescribed Uses for Depo-Provera

Depo-Provera is widely prescribed as a long-lasting, reversible birth control method, but it also has several off-label applications beyond contraception:

Management of Menstrual Disorders: Depo-Provera is often used to treat menstrual issues like heavy bleeding, painful periods (dysmenorrhea), and the absence of periods (amenorrhea).
Relief from Chronic Pelvic Pain: Some doctors prescribe it to alleviate chronic pelvic pain, especially in conditions like adenomyosis, where managing hormone levels can reduce discomfort.
Prevention of Ovarian Cysts: By suppressing ovulation, Depo-Provera may help prevent the formation and recurrence of ovarian cysts.
Hormone Therapy for Postmenopausal Women: In some cases, it’s used as part of hormone replacement therapy to reduce the risk of endometrial hyperplasia in postmenopausal women.
Management of Hirsutism: Depo-Provera is occasionally used to treat excessive hair growth in women with hormonal conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Lowering Endometrial Cancer Risk: For women at high risk, Depo-Provera may be prescribed to reduce the risk of endometrial cancer due to its effect on the endometrial lining.
Palliative Care for Certain Cancers: Depo-Provera has also been used in the palliative treatment of cancers like endometrial or renal cell carcinoma because of its hormone-regulating properties.

Meningiomas Linked to Hormonal Brith Control Drugs

Meningiomas are tumors that form in the meninges, the membranes that cover and protect the brain and spinal cord. They are the most common type of brain tumor, accounting for about 30% of all brain tumors.

Origin:They originate in the meninges, particularly the arachnoid layer.
Growth Rate: Most meningiomas grow slowly and may exist for years without causing symptoms.
Nature: They are typically benign (non-cancerous), but some can be malignant (cancerous).
Symptoms: Symptoms depend on the location of the tumor and can include headaches, seizures, vision problems, and weakness.
Treatment: Treatment options include observation, surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, depending on the size, location, and type of the meningioma.

Depo-Provera Brain Tumor Risks & Symptoms

Depo-Provera contains medroxyprogesterone acetate, a synthetic hormone that suppresses ovulation. While effective as a birth control measure, recent findings, including one study published by the British Medical Journal, have found a link between long-term use of Depo-Provera and an increased risk of brain tumors, specifically meningiomas.

Women receiving Depo-Provera are 5X more likely to develop meningiomas.

These tumors, though often benign, can grow and press against brain tissue, causing serious symptoms and requiring invasive treatment.

Other Depo-Provera Side Effects

Menstrual Changes: Irregular bleeding or spotting is typical during the first few months. Over time, periods may become lighter, heavier, or even stop altogether.
Weight Gain: Many users report gaining weight while on Depo-Provera.
Headaches: Some individuals experience frequent headaches or migraines.
Mood Swings: Mood changes, including anxiety, depression, or nervousness, have been reported.
Decreased Libido: A drop in sexual desire is a reported side effect for some users.
Breast Tenderness: Users may experience tenderness or discomfort in the breast area.
Delayed Fertility: After stopping Depo-Provera, it can take several months to over a year for fertility to return to normal.

Depo-Provera may cause other, less frequent but more serious side effects, such as bone density loss, nausea, changes in hair texture or growth, and skin reactions. Understanding these potential side effects can help users make informed decisions about their contraceptive options.

Signs of a Depo-Provera Brain Tumor

If you’ve used Depo-Provera, be aware of symptoms that may indicate a brain tumor.

The signs of a brain tumor linked to birth control include:

Persistent headaches
Vision changes
Memory loss
Seizures

Medroxyprogesterone Acetate & Pfizer Allegations

Medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA), the active ingredient in Depo-Provera, is a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone. This hormone is used in various contraceptive products to prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation. However, prolonged exposure to medroxyprogesterone acetate suggests an increased risk of developing meningiomas—tumors that grow on the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

Generic Depo-Provera Has the Same Risks

In addition to Depo-Provera, several authorized generic versions containing medroxyprogesterone acetate may pose the same risks. These include Depo-subQ Provera 104 and any Pfizer-manufactured generics available in the U.S. and internationaly.

Did Pfizer Know Depo-Provera Was Unsafe?

Plaintiffs in Depo-Provera lawsuits allege that Pfizer failed to adequately warn users and healthcare providers in the United States about this risk despite adding warnings to labels in countries such as Canada and the European Union. Lawsuits claim that Pfizer knew or should have known of these risks, particularly given findings from international studies and post-market adverse event reports.

If you or a loved one have used Depo-Provera or its generic forms and were later diagnosed with a brain tumor, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit against Pfizer for failure to warn.

Do You Qualify for a Depo-Provera Lawsuit?

To qualify for a Depo-Provera lawsuit, you must meet specific criteria:

You received at least two injections of Depo-Provera or an authorized generic version.

You were diagnosed with a brain tumor, such as meningioma, after using Depo-Provera.

Your diagnosis occurred after beginning Depo-Provera use.

KNR can assess your eligibility and guide you through the next steps. Contact us today for a free case review.

Potential Depo-Provera Compensation

In Depo-Provera lawsuits, victims can pursue various forms of financial recovery to address the full impact of their injuries. Here’s a breakdown of potential compensation you could receive:

Past and Future Medical Expenses: Covers the cost of treatments related to the brain tumor, including surgeries, hospital stays, rehabilitation, medications, and any ongoing medical care.
Lost Wages and Future Earning Capacity: If your medical condition has affected your ability to work, you could be compensated for missed wages and diminished earning potential due to lasting health impacts.
Pain and Suffering: This accounts for the physical pain and discomfort associated with tumor symptoms, surgeries, and treatments.
Emotional Distress: Compensation for the psychological impact of a brain tumor diagnosis, including anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life.
Punitive Damages: In cases where it can be shown that Pfizer acted with gross negligence or failed to warn consumers about known risks, the court may award punitive damages to deter similar conduct.

Depo-Provera Settlements: What to Expect?

While each case is unique, settlements in similar pharmaceutical injury lawsuits can range widely based on individual circumstances, typically from hundreds of thousands to several million dollars, especially in cases involving severe, life-altering injuries.

Depo-Provera Litigation – Current Status & Updates

Depo-Provera lawsuits are gaining momentum as more individuals come forward with reports of severe side effects. Numerous cases have been filed against Pfizer, the drug’s manufacturer, accusing it of failing to warn U.S. users and healthcare providers about the heightened risk of brain tumors associated with long-term use of Depo-Provera.

Plaintiffs argue that Pfizer was or should have been aware of these risks, especially since other countries, including Canada and the European Union, updated their warning labels years ago to reflect this potential danger.

Depo-Provera Claims as Multidistrict Litigation (MDL)

Due to the growing number of similar cases, Depo-Provera lawsuits may soon be consolidated into multidistrict litigation (MDL). An MDL allows federal cases with common claims to be grouped under one court, streamlining the legal process and standardizing decisions on evidence, pretrial motions, and expert testimonies.

This consolidation benefits plaintiffs by increasing efficiency and reducing costs while potentially encouraging settlements. Given the large population of women who have used Depo-Provera, MDL could lead to a coordinated, more robust approach to seeking justice and compensation.

How Many People Have Been Harmed by Depo-Provera?

Depo-Provera has been a popular contraceptive in the U.S. for decades. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), millions of women have used Depo-Provera, especially during its peak in the 1990s and 2000s. With such a large population potentially impacted, many additional cases are expected as awareness grows, and more individuals learn of the risks of Depo-Provera.

As more birth control lawsuits are filed, KNR is dedicated to keeping clients informed about the latest developments and fighting for justice for those harmed by this drug. Suppose you or a loved one developed a brain tumor after Depo-Provera use. In that case, KNR’s experienced attorneys can help you understand your legal options and work to secure the compensation you deserve.

Depo-Provera Lawsuit & Brain Tumor FAQs

Who Qualifies for a Depo-Provera Lawsuit?

To qualify, individuals must have received at least two injections of Depo-Provera or its authorized generic, been diagnosed with a brain tumor (such as a meningioma) after starting Depo-Provera, and received the diagnosis within a relevant timeframe. Contact KNR for a free consultation to assess your eligibility.

How Long Do I Have to File a Depo-Provera Lawsuit?

The time limit to file a Depo-Provera lawsuit varies by state, typically ranging from 1 to a few years from the date of diagnosis or discovery of harm. It’s crucial to consult an attorney promptly to ensure you file within the statute of limitations.

How Long Will a Depo-Provera Lawsuit Take to Resolve?

The duration of a lawsuit can vary. While some cases settle early, others may take longer, especially if they proceed to trial or are consolidated in MDL. KNR is committed to supporting clients every step of the way.

What Damages are Available in a Depo-Provera Lawsuit?

Potential compensation may include coverage for past and future medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and, in some cases, punitive damages if Pfizer is found grossly negligent.

What Should I Do if I Think Depo-Provera Caused My Brain Tumor?

If you suspect Depo-Provera caused your brain tumor, seek medical advice immediately. Document your symptoms, medical treatments, and any financial losses due to your condition.

Can I Sue if I am the Family Member of Someone Who Used Depo-Provera and Developed a Tumor?

If you are a family member of someone who passed away or became incapacitated due to a brain tumor after using Depo-Provera, you may be able to file a wrongful death or personal injury lawsuit on their behalf.

Is the Depo-Provera Lawsuit a Class Action?

Depo-Provera cases are primarily being handled as individual lawsuits, but they may be consolidated into multidistrict litigation (MDL). An MDL allows cases with similar claims to be processed together, but each plaintiff maintains their individual case.

What Does it Cost to File a Depo-Provera Lawsuit?

Like most personal injury law firms, KNR works on a contingency basis, meaning there are no upfront costs to file your lawsuit. We only get paid if you win your case or receive a settlement, making our services accessible to clients regardless of financial status.

More Frequently Asked Class Action Questions

KNR Fights for the Victims of Depo-Provera

At KNR, we bring extensive experience in handling pharmaceutical and product liability cases, making us an ideal choice for those impacted by Depo-Provera. Our legal team has a record of successful verdicts and settlements, and we are dedicated to achieving the best possible outcomes for clients harmed by birth control drugs they believed to be safe.

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With KNR, you get more than just a legal representative—you gain a committed advocate.

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Our attorneys will start with a thorough case assessment, helping you understand your legal options and eligibility. We’ll gather crucial evidence, manages all legal filings, and builds a solid case. With skilled negotiation strategies and genuine trial experience, we aim to secure justice and maximum compensation for everything you endured.

Contact KNR today at 1-800-HURT-NOW to schedule a free Depo-Provera case evaluation.

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The Depo-Provera / Brain Tumor Lawsuit