The Depo Provera Lawsuit is an ACTIVE Lawsuit
Depo-Provera, a widely used injectable contraceptive, has been linked to serious health risks that are now the focus of growing legal action. While millions of women have relied on Depo-Provera for long-term birth control since its approval in 1992, new scientific studies have uncovered a troubling connection between the drug and the development of meningioma brain tumors.
These findings have sparked a wave of lawsuits across the country, as women who have been diagnosed with meningiomas after using Depo-Provera are now seeking compensation for the harm they’ve suffered. As more evidence emerges, the number of claims against the drug’s manufacturer, Pfizer, is expected to increase.
This page will provide the latest news on Depo-Provera lawsuits, explore the legal basis for these claims, and outline what potential plaintiffs can expect regarding compensation and the legal process. If you or a loved one has been injured by Depo-Provera, stay informed about your legal options and the ongoing litigation.
[Video] How will the settlement amounts in the Depo-Provera lawsuit be determined and how much will they be?
Depo-Provera Legal Updates and News
As the evidence linking Depo-Provera to serious health risks continues to grow, lawsuits are being filed across the country by women who have developed meningiomas after using the drug. Below are the latest updates on this emerging litigation.
January 1, 2025 - Hearing on Proposed MDL Set for January 30th, State Case Count Grows
The pending motion to create a Depo-Provera Multidistrict Litigation (MDL) will be heard by the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) on January 30, 2025, in Miami. This panel is made up of seven federal judges appointed by US Supreme Court Chief Justice Roberts. We should have a decision shortly after the hearing, possibly as soon as February.
While we wait to hear about the MDL, new cases are being filed by women who allege injuries from Depo-Provera injections in various states around the country. Many of those could be joined into the MDL if it is formed. The LLN team is keeping a close eye on this growing litigation. If you have questions, reach out for a free consultation.
December 15, 2024 - How Would a Depo-Provera MDL Work?
When a pharmaceutical product injures multiple people who then file lawsuits, multidistrict litigation, or MDL, is one of the best alternatives for handling large-scale litigation. An MDL combines a large number of complex complaints for pre-trial procedures to help ensure complete evidence disclosure and consistent court rulings that apply to all injured plaintiffs and named defendants. However, unlike a typical class action lawsuit, each claim remains separate and distinct for trial purposes.
Creating an MDL for Depo-Provera brain tumor cases is a logical step since each plaintiff has unique circumstances, injuries, and Depo-Provera use history. By addressing common factual scenarios and legal issues in one MDL, these cases can move along more quickly, and all plaintiffs will benefit from the information exchanged during the discovery process.
For example, all plaintiffs must eventually demonstrate a causal relationship between using Depo-Provera and meningioma brain tumors. Plaintiffs will also need to show that Pfizer failed to warn about known risks, that it could have offered a lower-dose product with fewer risks, and/or how Pfizer concealed safety concerns from doctors and patients considering using this drug.
If an MDL is formed, all cases proceed through the discovery and motion hearing process together, but they will either be tried separately or settled before trial. Settlements can also happen on an individual basis or as a global settlement involving all pending claims.
December 2, 2024 - With 22 Federal Lawsuits on File, Multidistrict Litigation is Requested in Northern California
Three more cases claiming Depo-Provera use caused meningioma have been filed in Nevada, Missouri, and Napa, California. Several potential plaintiffs are facing inoperable brain tumors because of where their tumors are located or the part of the brain they affect. Although meningioma tumors are considered benign (non-cancerous), they can still create life-altering symptoms and conditions for the women who face this diagnosis.
At the end of November, a motion was filed with the Multidistrict Panel, requesting the consolidation of all pending federal cases before one court in Northern California. Of the 22 current plaintiffs, 18 are located in California, with six in the Northern District. If the MDL is created, we believe this is a good forum to handle the pretrial process.
November 14, 2024 - Three California Cases Filed, Number of Possible Lawsuits Expected
Three more women have filed lawsuits against Pfizer and other companies related to meningiomas they claim were caused by the drug Depo-Provera. The first plaintiff from Fontana received injections for 19 years and developed an intracranial tumor that led to invasive surgery. The second plaintiff lives in Crestline and alleges she developed severe neurological problems after taking Depo-Provera for nine years before she was diagnosed with a meningioma tumor.
The third plaintiff is from Cypress. She suffered multiple meningiomas that caused severe medical complications. This woman received 36 injections over nearly a decade of use. Doctors finally diagnosed the brain tumors after her vision became blurred and her quality of life was affected. The LLN team is monitoring these cases closely and we expect a multidistrict litigation will be formed soon. California looks like the best forum for an MDL based on the number of cases already filed there.
Let's talk numbers. Somewhere between two and three million Depo-Provera prescriptions are filled each year in the US. A recent study found that patients using the drug are 5.5 times more likely to develop meningioma than the average population. Basically, for every 100,000 Depo-Provera users in the country, 52.25 will experience meningioma brain tumors. As opposed to the general population where only 9.5 per 100,000 people develop meningioma. The coming months will likely see hundreds of new cases filed across the nation.
November 10, 2024 - Explaining the Link Between Meningiomas and Depo-Provera
According to scientists, the synthetic hormone progestin (the chemical found in Depo-Provera) is a compound that mimics the human-produced hormone progesterone. Hormone receptors in the brain are particularly sensitive to progesterone and estrogen, and when these hormones are present, the receptors may cause unusual growth. Extended exposure to hormones can over-activate the brain receptors, leading to meningioma tumors.
Also, research reveals a strong dose-dependent relationship between Depo-Provera use and tumor development. In other words, the more doses a patient receives, the higher the likelihood of suffering a brain tumor. Statistics show some women have been taking Depo-Provera for 15 years or more. We expect many more lawsuits will be filed by women who have been exposed to this product for many years without understanding the serious repercussions they faced.
November 7, 2024 – Is Strict Liability a Possibility in Depo-Provera Lawsuits?
Most dangerous drug cases, including those alleging Depo-Provera causes brain tumors, are based on the legal theory of failure to warn. Basically, if a drug poses a certain danger and the maker knew about the danger or should have known about it, the maker has a duty to warn about the possible harm the drug could cause. Most Depo lawsuits allege Pfizer should have warned about the possibility of developing meningioma brain tumors from using this product.
However, injured plaintiffs in these cases may also claim that Pfizer is strictly liable under a defective design argument. Simply put, if a drug is inherently dangerous and unsafe for use because of its design, the manufacturer can be held liable even if it was careful in producing the drug. In these cases, because of the high dose of the synthetic hormone progestin that created a risk of brain tumors, plaintiffs may claim Pfizer should be responsible for paying financial compensation to those injured without having to prove the company was negligent or failed to warn.
One way to show how a drug could be made safer is to compare it to a less harmful competitor's drug. In this situation, Pfizer is already producing a safer version called Depo-SubQ Provera 104, which is injected under the patient's skin. This drug contains a lower dose of progestin and stays in the body for a shorter period. The strict liability argument would be that Pfizer knew it had a safer alternative yet continued to produce and promote Depo-Provera and ignored the inherent risks related to the drug's design.
November 5, 2024 – Depo-Provera Lawsuit Filed in California
A woman from California has filed a lawsuit claiming that Depo-Provera caused her to develop a life-threatening brain tumor. She alleges that Pfizer and other companies failed to disclose the risks despite decades of scientific evidence linking the drug to meningioma. The plaintiff used Depo-Provera injections from 1999 to 2018 and was diagnosed with a large intracranial meningioma requiring invasive surgery.
October 28, 2024 – California Woman Sues Over Inoperable Calcified Brain Tumor
A lawsuit was filed in the Central District of California by a woman who used Depo-Provera for nearly 25 years, alleging that the contraceptive caused her to develop a calcified meningioma. Due to the tumor's nature, it is inoperable, resulting in chronic pain and ongoing symptoms. The plaintiff seeks compensation, asserting that Pfizer's failure to warn about the risks of prolonged Depo-Provera use has significantly impacted her health and quality of life.
October 20, 2024 – Pfizer Warns About Meningioma Risks in Europe But Not in the US, Potential Number of Women Harmed is Greater Than Expected
Pfizer, the maker of Depo-Provera, added a warning to the drug's label in the EU and UK, stating:
“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.”
However, the US Federal Drug Administration (FDA) has not required any warning about the possibility that the drug can cause meningioma tumors, and Pfizer has not requested a change in its labeling. Even the wording of the European warning is weak. It only "cautions" doctors about prescribing the drug for patients who already have a history of these tumors and never mentions the possibility that the drug could cause tumors in women without any prior history.
Even if the patient stops taking Depo-Provera after developing a brain tumor, the damage is already done, and they may face lifelong problems as a result of taking this drug without knowing about the potential danger. We are also learning that the number of affected women may be much larger than we expected.
A 2023 report from National Health Statistics estimates that among sexually active women, almost 25% used Depo-Provera from 2015 to 2019. Hispanic women reported a usage rate of just over 27%, while more than 41% of Black women used Depo-Provera during this timeframe. This means this drug may have potentially harmed thousands of women. the team at LLN expects the number of lawsuits to increase quickly, which should lead to the formation of a Multidistrict Litigation (MDL) combining all federal cases for discovery and pretrial purposes.
October 18, 2024 – New Depo-Provera Lawsuit Filed
A recent lawsuit was filed in Indiana by a woman who developed a meningioma after years of receiving Depo-Provera injections. The plaintiff claims that Pfizer failed to warn her about the risks of brain tumors linked to long-term use of the contraceptive. After undergoing invasive brain surgery, the plaintiff continues to suffer from complications, including memory loss and fatigue. This case adds to the growing number of claims being brought against Pfizer, seeking compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial toll of these tumors.
October 15, 2024 – Depo-Provera Settlement Discussions Begin
While it’s still early in the litigation process, initial discussions about potential settlements have begun. Experts predict that this litigation may follow the path of similar cases involving defective drugs, where bellwether trials are used to gauge the strength of the plaintiffs' claims. Depending on the outcomes of these early trials, Pfizer may be inclined to settle the lawsuits before going to trial.
October 12, 2024 – Bellwether Trials Expected in 2025
The first bellwether trials in the Depo-Provera litigation are expected to begin in mid-2025. These test cases will provide insight into how juries may respond to the evidence linking Depo-Provera to brain tumors. A favorable outcome for plaintiffs in these trials could lead to substantial settlements for other claimants.
October 9, 2024 – Statute of Limitations Concerns
Lawyers for potential plaintiffs are advising women who have developed brain tumors after using Depo-Provera to act quickly, as the statute of limitations may limit their ability to file a claim. However, many legal experts argue that the discovery rule—allowing claims to be filed once a plaintiff becomes aware of the connection between their condition and the drug—will often apply, giving plaintiffs more time to take legal action.
What Are the Legal Grounds for Depo-Provera Lawsuits?
The lawsuits being filed against Pfizer, the manufacturer of Depo-Provera, are primarily based on claims of product liability and failure to warn. These legal actions assert that Pfizer did not provide adequate warnings about the severe risks associated with prolonged use of the drug, particularly the increased risk of developing meningioma brain tumors.
Failure to Warn
Under U.S. product liability law, drug manufacturers must warn consumers and healthcare providers about known risks associated with their products. Plaintiffs in the Depo-Provera lawsuits argue that Pfizer failed to meet this obligation. Although scientific studies have shown a link between Depo-Provera and meningiomas, these risks were not reflected in the drug’s warning labels or patient information leaflets, particularly in the U.S.
In Europe, Pfizer updated Depo-Provera’s warning label to include information about the increased risk of brain tumors. Still, these warnings were not included in the U.S. versions of the drug’s labeling. Plaintiffs claim that had they been adequately informed of the potential dangers, they would have chosen different contraceptive methods or monitored their health more closely for signs of brain tumors.
Product Liability
The claims also focus on strict product liability, which holds manufacturers accountable for distributing unreasonably dangerous products to consumers. Even if Pfizer was not negligent in designing Depo-Provera, plaintiffs allege that the drug was inherently hazardous due to its link to meningiomas. They argue that Pfizer should be held liable for the harm caused by the drug, regardless of intent or negligence.
Negligence
In addition to product liability and failure to warn, some plaintiffs pursue negligence claims. These claims argue that Pfizer failed to test the long-term effects of Depo-Provera properly and failed to disclose the known risks to the public promptly. Legal teams are also investigating whether Pfizer deliberately withheld information about these risks, further strengthening the case for negligence claims.
Multidistrict Litigation (MDL) and Class Actions
Given the number of lawsuits being filed, the Depo-Provera cases are expected to be consolidated into a multidistrict litigation (MDL). In an MDL, similar cases are grouped in one court to streamline pretrial proceedings, making the process more efficient. While plaintiffs retain their lawsuits, common legal and factual issues are addressed collectively. This approach often leads to faster settlements, especially if early trials (known as bellwether trials) indicate a strong case for the plaintiffs.
How a Depo-Provera Lawsuit Works. The Legal Process
Filing a Depo-Provera lawsuit may seem overwhelming, but understanding the legal process can help make it more manageable. Below is a step-by-step breakdown of what plaintiffs can expect when pursuing legal action against Pfizer.
1. Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation
The first step in filing a Depo-Provera lawsuit is consulting with an attorney experienced in product liability and pharmaceutical cases. During this consultation, your attorney will evaluate your case by reviewing medical records, your history of Depo-Provera use, and your diagnosis of a brain tumor, such as a meningioma. The attorney will also assess the strength of your claim based on factors like how long you used the drug and whether you were warned of the potential risks. This information will help the attorney decide whether your case would qualify for a Depo-Provera lawsuit under the circumstances of the case.
2. Gathering Medical Documentation
Your legal team must gather all relevant medical records to build a strong case. This includes documentation that shows your use of Depo-Provera, such as prescriptions or billing records from your healthcare provider, as well as records of your diagnosis, treatment, and any surgeries related to a meningioma or other brain tumors. Medical records are essential to proving that the drug caused your injuries.
3. Filing the Lawsuit
Once your case has been evaluated and the necessary documentation gathered, your attorney will file a lawsuit against Pfizer on your behalf. This legal document, known as a complaint, outlines your claims and the damages you seek. The lawsuit may be filed individually or as part of a larger multidistrict litigation (MDL), where similar claims are grouped to streamline the legal process.
4. Discovery Process
After the lawsuit is filed, the discovery phase begins. Both sides exchange evidence during this stage, including medical records, internal company documents, and expert testimony. This phase is crucial for building a solid case, as it may uncover information about what Pfizer knew regarding the risks of Depo-Provera and when they knew it. Expert testimony from medical professionals and scientists will also play a key role in establishing the link between Depo-Provera and brain tumors.
5. Bellwether Trials and Settlement Negotiations
In large pharmaceutical cases like Depo-Provera, early bellwether trials are often held to test the strength of the plaintiff's claims and the evidence. These trials help determine how future cases may proceed and can influence settlement negotiations. If the bellwether trials result in favorable outcomes for plaintiffs, it often leads to settlement discussions where Pfizer may agree to compensate victims without going to trial.
6. Settlement or Trial
Many Depo-Provera cases are expected to settle before reaching trial. Settlements provide victims with compensation without the uncertainty and lengthy trial process. However, if a settlement cannot be reached, the case may go to trial, where a jury will decide whether Pfizer is liable for the harm caused by the drug and determine the amount of compensation.
Throughout this process, your attorney will guide you, handle all legal proceedings, and work to secure the compensation you deserve. Most importantly, by filing a lawsuit, you can help hold pharmaceutical companies accountable for their actions and prevent future harm to others.
What Compensation is Available in Depo-Provera Cases?
For those who have suffered severe health issues after using Depo-Provera, pursuing a lawsuit offers the possibility of financial compensation. The compensation available in Depo-Provera cases varies depending on the extent of the injury, the impact on the individual’s life, and the strength of the legal claim. The following are the types of damages victims may be able to recover through a lawsuit.
Medical Expenses
One of the most significant areas of compensation in Depo-Provera lawsuits is the recovery of medical costs. These expenses may include.
- Diagnosis and Treatment. Costs related to diagnosing brain tumors, including imaging tests like MRIs or CT scans, and treatment such as surgery or radiation therapy to remove or manage meningiomas.
- Ongoing Care. Long-term medical care, such as follow-up appointments, neurological evaluations, and regular monitoring for tumor regrowth.
- Medications. Prescription drugs are used to manage symptoms or prevent the recurrence of the tumor.
- Rehabilitation and Therapy. Costs associated with physical therapy, occupational therapy, or other rehabilitation services necessary after surgery or treatment.
Lost Income
For many victims, the recovery process from a meningioma can involve long periods away from work, either temporarily or permanently. Compensation for lost income covers.
- Wages Lost During Recovery. If a plaintiff cannot work while undergoing surgery or treatment, they may be compensated for their lost income.
- Loss of Earning Capacity. In cases where the plaintiff’s ability to work is permanently diminished due to their health condition, they may be entitled to compensation for future lost income or reduced earning capacity.
Pain and Suffering
Compensation for pain and suffering addresses the physical and emotional toll of dealing with a severe health condition like a brain tumor. This includes.
- Physical Pain. The pain associated with surgery, recovery, and ongoing health problems caused by Depo-Provera.
- Emotional Distress. The anxiety, depression, and psychological trauma that often accompany a brain tumor diagnosis and treatment, including the fear of tumor recurrence.
- Diminished Quality of Life. Many plaintiffs experience a reduced quality of life due to long-term neurological complications, chronic headaches, or cognitive difficulties, which can be compensated through pain and suffering damages.
Punitive Damages
In some cases, courts may award punitive and compensatory damages. Plaintiffs in Depo-Provera lawsuits may argue that Pfizer knew, or should have known, about the risks of meningiomas but failed to warn consumers, warranting punitive damages to hold the company accountable for its actions.
Other Economic Damages
Victims may also be compensated for other economic losses caused by their condition.
- Travel Expenses. Costs associated with traveling to medical appointments or receiving specialized care.
- Home Modifications. If a plaintiff’s condition requires home modifications (e.g., ramps or other accessibility features), they may be compensated for these expenses.
Which Factors Influence Compensation?
The compensation a plaintiff may receive in a Depo-Provera lawsuit depends on several factors.
- The severity of the meningioma and the treatment required.
- Whether the plaintiff needed surgery or other invasive treatments.
- The condition's impact on the plaintiff’s ability to work and overall quality of life.
- The strength of the scientific evidence linking Depo-Provera to the plaintiff’s condition.
Each case is unique, and an experienced attorney can help victims understand what compensation they may be entitled to based on their specific circumstances.
Talk to a Depo-Provera Attorney Today
Lawsuit Legal News will help you pursue the compensation you deserve if Depo-Provera has harmed your health. The Lawsuit Legal News team has successfully fought against major pharmaceutical companies, including 3M, Dupont, Tylenol, and Pfizer, and is prepared to take on the legal battle over Depo-Provera.
If you have been diagnosed with a meningioma or other serious health complications after using Depo-Provera, we want to hear from you. Our team is committed to holding pharmaceutical companies accountable for the harm caused by dangerous drugs and ensuring that victims receive the justice they are entitled to.
Our experienced Depo-Provera lawyers are ready to assist you with your claim and prepare for the inevitable filing of a lawsuit against Pfizer. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that comes with dealing with a brain tumor or long-term health complications, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
We have built a national reputation for litigating against some of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the world. The lawyers affiliated with Lawsuit Legal News have the experience and resources necessary to take on drug manufacturers nationwide.
We offer a free consultation and case evaluation to anyone who has experienced health problems linked to Depo-Provera. If you believe you have a potential claim, contact us today for a free consultation.
We are handling Depo-Provera cases nationwide. Contact us immediately at (833) 552-7274.
Real Stories from Women Who Have Suffered with Brain Tumors After Taking Depo-Provera
Middle-Aged Nurse Develops Brain Tumor—A 43-year-old nurse began experiencing severe headaches and difficulty understanding speech during work meetings. Initially attributing these symptoms to stress and fatigue, she sought medical attention when the issues persisted. Diagnostic imaging revealed a meningioma—a type of brain tumor. Reflecting on her medical history, she noted prolonged use of hormone-based medications, including the Depo-Provera contraceptive injection, IVF treatments, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT), all containing progesterone. Studies have linked certain progesterone-based medications to an increased risk of meningiomas, which are more prevalent in women. She underwent surgery to remove the tumor and is now recovering, though she continues to face memory challenges. She advises women who have undergone extensive hormone treatments or experience persistent unusual headaches to seek medical evaluation, including eye tests, as part of a proactive approach to their health.
Woman Suffers Golf Ball-sized Tumor—Another individual, a woman in her early 40s, experienced severe headaches and struggled with language comprehension, particularly during work meetings. These symptoms led to the discovery of a golf ball-sized brain tumor. She attributed the tumor's growth to hormone treatments she received, including the Depo-Provera contraceptive injection, IVF, and HRT medication. Meningiomas, the type of tumor she had, are commonly non-cancerous and more frequent in females. Studies have shown a link between hormone treatments, such as HRT and progesterone medications, and an increased risk of meningioma. Her symptoms began in December 2023, and she sought medical advice after a particularly disabling headache. A CT scan and MRI confirmed the brain tumor, leading to surgery in May 2024 to remove it. Post-surgery, she is recovering but advises other women who have undergone hormone treatments to get checked if they experience unusual headaches.