Depo-Provera Lawsuits

What Is the Depo-Provera Lawsuit About?

Depo-Provera is a birth control injection that is administered every three months. It contains the hormone medroxyprogesterone acetate. Although Depo-Provera and its generic counterparts are highly effective at preventing pregnancy, the contraceptive is not 100 % safe. Plaintiffs and product liability attorneys in Depo-Provera lawsuits assert that Pfizer failed to warn patients about the risks involved with taking the injection.

Can Depo-Provera Cause Tumors?

Studies indicate that Depo-Provera increases the risk of developing spine and brain tumors called meningiomas. In March 2024, The British Medical Journal (BMJ) published a study that linked the prolonged use of the injectable form of medroxyprogesterone acetate to an increased risk of developing meningiomas. According to the study, women who used the birth control shot for a prolonged period of time (more than 12 months) are roughly 5.6 times more likely to develop meningiomas.

This was not the first study that suggested a link between hormone-based drugs like Depo-Provera and a risk of meningioma, however.

All the way back in 1983, a study published in the European Journal of Cancer & Clinical Oncology demonstrated that the long term use of progesterone-based drugs may significantly increase the risk of meningiomas. Another study from 1991 presented compelling evidence that progesterone plays a significant role in the growth of meningiomas.

It wasn’t until October 1, 2024, that the first lawsuit against Pfizer involving the link between Depo-Provera and brain tumors was filed in Federal Court. The suit claims that Pfizer and the previous owners of Depo-Provera knew about the risks for decades, but failed to disclose the danger to consumers.

Did Pfizer Know About the Link Between Depo-Provera and Meningiomas?

In a statement published by The Guardian, Pfizer admitted to knowing about the heightened risks and claimed that they were updating patient information leaflets and product labels with appropriate wording. However, as of November 2024, Pfizer’s online medication guide does not mention brain tumors, spine tumors, or the increased risk of developing meningiomas. The pharmaceutical giant has, however, made changes to its product labels in the European Union and in the United Kingdom.

In the EU, the language on the Depo-Provera label states, “Meningioma: Meningiomas have been reported following long term administration of progestogens, including medroxyprogesterone acetate. Depo-Provera should be discontinued if a meningioma is diagnosed. Caution is advised when recommending Depo-Provera to patients with a history of meningioma.”

Do You Qualify for a Depo-Provera Shot Lawsuit?

If you took the birth control shot Depo-Provera, Depo-SubQ Provera, or a generic version of the contraceptive (medroxyprogesterone acetate), and you were diagnosed with a meningioma (spine or brain tumor), you may qualify to file a Depo-Provera lawsuit against Pfizer. To confirm your eligibility for the lawsuit for Depo-Provera side effects, our injury lawyers will evaluate:

• The length of time you took the birth control injection
• The number of injections you received
• Your diagnosis

If you wait too long to take legal action, you will lose your right to recover compensation for your losses.

Keep in mind that Illinois restricts the amount of time patients have to file lawsuits against Pfizer for brain injuries or other side effects caused by Depo-Provera. The statute of limitations for your case may be impacted by the “discovery rule” in Illinois, however, making it possible to qualify for a lawsuit even if it’s been years since you took the birth control injection.

Find out if you qualify for a Birth Control Lawsuit. Call (309) 393-2928 for a free consultation.

Is There a Class Action Lawsuit for Depo-Provera Meningiomas?

Several lawsuits have been filed against Pfizer for meningiomas caused by the birth control shot, and with an estimated 74 million women worldwide who have used the injection, the number of lawsuits is expected to skyrocket. Some of these claims will likely be consolidated into a class action lawsuit against the maker of Depo-Provera as more cases continue to surface.

If you believe your health has been compromised due to Depo-Provera, you may have the right to pursue compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages caused by your diagnosis. You may participate in a multidistrict litigation (MDL) or a class action lawsuit when one is established, or you may also pursue compensation on an individual basis. Contact our experienced product liability attorneys right away, so we can help you determine how best to proceed with your case.

How to File a Lawsuit for Depo-Provera Injuries

Filing a lawsuit against Pfizer, the manufacturer of Depo-Provera, involves several key steps.

1. Consult an Experienced Injury Attorney
   The first and most crucial step is to contact an experienced injury attorney with a background in dangerous medication cases. Our attorneys can help you understand your rights, assess your case, and guide you through the legal process to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.
2. Gather Evidence
   Your attorney will assist in gathering medical records, pharmacy receipts, doctor’s reports, and any other documentation that connects your use of Depo-Provera to your injuries. This evidence is essential in demonstrating the link between Depo-Provera and the harm it may have caused.
3. File the Claim
   Once the evidence is gathered, your attorney will file a claim against Pfizer, seeking compensation for your injuries and related losses. We will handle all communication with the pharmaceutical company and their legal representatives to protect your rights.
4. Negotiate or Proceed to Trial
   We will attempt to negotiate a fair settlement with Pfizer’s legal team. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, however, we may recommend taking your case to trial to pursue maximum compensation for your losses.

Call (309) 393-2928 to get started with your recovery.

Why Choose Strong Law Offices for Your Depo-Provera Case?

When you choose our Illinois law firm to handle your birth control lawsuit, you’ll have over 25 years of experience in personal injury law on your side. As true trial lawyers, our team knows what to expect when going up against powerful corporations and pharmaceutical companies like Pfizer. We’re dedicated to protecting the rights of victims who have suffered harm because of defective products and dangerous drugs, and we don’t back down.

FAQs About Depo-Provera Lawsuits

What are the grounds for filing a Depo-Provera lawsuit in Illinois? 

Women in Illinois may file a lawsuit if they suffered serious health complications after using Depo-Provera, such as meningiomas (a type of brain tumor) other serious side effects. Plaintiffs in the birth control shot lawsuits generally allege that Pfizer, the manufacturer, failed to adequately warn users about the risks associated with long-term or repeated use of the medication.

What types of compensation are available in a Depo-Provera lawsuit?

Women who were prescribed Depo-Provera and later developed meningiomas or other serious health complications linked to the medication may be eligible to recover economic and non-economic damages. These include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and in some cases, punitive damages if gross negligence is proven. Compensation can vary depending on the severity of the injury and other case specifics. Family members may also have a wrongful death claim if a loved one experienced fatal complications.

How long does it take to resolve a Depo-Provera lawsuit?

The timeline for a Depo-Provera lawsuit will vary depending on factors like the complexity of the case, the strength of the evidence, and whether a settlement is reached or the case goes to trial. Some cases may settle in a matter of months, while others could take several years to resolve fully. An attorney at our law firm can give you a more specific estimate based on the details of your case.