Depo Provera Long-Term Side Effects: What You Need to Know

Depo-Provera injections’ long-term side effects can significantly impact your health. Users may experience bone mineral density loss, increased cancer risk, and potential fertility delays.

Over 68% of women face fertility challenges after using Depo-Provera, and recent studies show a 5.55-fold increased risk of brain tumors. Understanding these long-term risks is crucial for your health decisions.

This article dives into the long-term health risks of Depo-Provera, providing essential information to help you make an informed decision. If you or someone you care about has developed a brain tumor linked to Depo-Provera, Schmidt & Clark, LLP is ready to offer assistance.

How S&C Can Help With Your Claim?

How S&C can help with your claim by navigating the complex legal landscape surrounding Depo-Provera’s adverse effects, which can be overwhelming.

Here’s how we can assist you:

• Offer a free initial consultation to assess your eligibility for a lawsuit.
• Provide expert legal representation with no upfront costs.
• Work on a contingency fee basis, ensuring you only pay if we win your case.

Depo-Provera Lawsuit Overview

The legal landscape surrounding Depo-Provera is complex and evolving. Lawsuits allege that Pfizer, the manufacturer of Depo-Provera, failed to inform users about the risks of developing brain tumors associated with the drug.

Due to the number of claims filed against Pfizer, legal actions are expected to be streamlined into multidistrict litigation. Many individual lawsuits will be consolidated to expedite the legal process.

Claims against Pfizer include allegations of neglecting to update the drug’s label with warnings about brain tumor risks despite substantial evidence.

Also Read: 

• Depo-Provera Blood Clot
• Depo-Provera Lawsuit Settlements

Depo Provera Long-Term Side Effects: What You Need to Know

Long-term use of Depo-Provera can lead to significant side effects within a year. Many users of Depo-Provera CI gained weight, with an average increase of 5.4 lb after one year and up to 16.5 lb after six years [1].

Key concerns include bone mineral density loss, increasing the risk of osteoporosis, and a heightened likelihood of developing intracranial meningioma, a type of brain tumor.

It is crucial to monitor glucose tolerance and bone mineral density during Depo-Provera CI treatment, especially in diabetic patients, to mitigate potential risks.

What is Medroxyprogesterone Acetate Injectable Suspension (Birth Control Shot)?

Medroxyprogesterone acetate injectable suspension is a form of birth control known as Depo-Provera. It contains depot medroxyprogesterone acetate, a synthetic progestin hormone [2].

A Depo Provera shot is administered every three months, offering a convenient alternative to daily birth control methods.

Long-term use of Depo-Provera can lead to various side effects that users should know, including:

• Blood clots
• Vision problems
• Menstrual irregularities
• Increased cancer risk
• Decrease in bone mineral density, which can increase the risk of osteoporosis

It is crucial to administer Depo Provera CI following proper techniques and protocols to ensure its efficacy and safety. This includes adhering to the recommended dosage schedule and specific time frames for administration.

How Depo Provera Works?

Depo Provera works by preventing ovulation through the release of medroxyprogesterone acetate, a synthetic hormone similar to progesterone.

This hormone thickens cervical mucus, hindering sperm from reaching the egg, and thins the uterine lining to reduce the chance of egg implantation.

Administered via injection every 12 weeks, Depo Provera provides continuous pregnancy protection. The infusion, given in the arm or buttocks, releases the hormone gradually over three months, making it a convenient alternative to daily contraceptives.

Is Depo-Provera Linked to Brain Tumors?

Depo-Provera is linked to brain tumor risks, and legal cases are emerging against Pfizer for not warning patients about the potential for developing meningiomas, which are tumors surrounding the brain.

Although meningiomas are often benign, they can still cause significant health issues as they may grow and apply pressure on surrounding brain tissues.

A study showed that women using Depo-Provera had a 5.55-fold increased risk of developing meningiomas compared to non-users.

“Seventy-two (72.7%) patients had a history of hormonal contraceptive use. The subjects consist of 83 (83.8%) WHO grade I and 16 (16.2%) WHO grade II and III tumors.”- National Library of Medicine

Side-Effects of Depo-Provera

While Depo Provera is generally a safe and effective form of birth control, it can cause some side effects.

Common side effects include [3]:

• Changes in Menstrual Cycle: Depo Provera can cause changes in menstrual bleeding, including lighter or heavier periods or no periods.
• Weight Gain: Some women may experience weight gain while using Depo Provera.
• Breast Tenderness: Some women may experience tenderness or swelling while using Depo Provera.
• Headaches: Some women may experience headaches while using Depo Provera.
• Dizziness: Some women may experience dizziness or lightheadedness while using Depo Provera.
• Nausea: Some women may experience nausea or vomiting while using Depo Provera.
• Fatigue: Some women may experience fatigue or tiredness while using Depo Provera.
• Mood Changes: Some women may experience mood changes, including depression or anxiety while using Depo Provera.

These side effects can vary in severity and impact, making it essential for users to be aware of the potential health risks associated with long-term use.

Other Health Risks of Depo-Provera

While Depo Provera is a highly effective birth control method, it is not without risks. Some of the potential health risks associated with Depo Provera include:

Cancer Risks

There is a potential increased risk of certain types of cancer associated with the use of Depo Provera.

These include:

• Breast Cancer: Women who have a history of breast cancer should not use Depo Provera. Additionally, women who have a strong family history of breast cancer should be monitored closely.
• Cervical Cancer: There is a potential increased risk of cervical cancer associated with the use of Depo Provera, particularly in women who are under the age of 35.
• Other Cancers: There is no conclusive evidence that Depo Provera increases the risk of other types of cancer, such as ovarian or liver cancer.

Ectopic Pregnancy

While Depo Provera is highly effective in preventing pregnancy, it is not 100% effective. In the event of a pregnancy, there is a potential increased risk of ectopic pregnancy, which is a pregnancy that develops outside of the uterus. This condition can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.

Thromboembolic Disorders

Depo Provera may increase the risk of thromboembolic disorders, such as blood clots and stroke. Women who have a history of blood clots or stroke should not use Depo Provera. Additionally, women who are at risk for blood clots, such as those who are overweight or smoke, should be monitored closely.

Is Depo-Provera Right for You? Key Health Considerations

There are special considerations that users of Depo Provera should be aware of before starting this birth control method.

Discussing any pre-existing health conditions with a healthcare provider is crucial, as Depo Provera may not be suitable for everyone.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Depo Provera is not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. If a woman becomes pregnant while using Depo Provera, she should stop using the medication immediately and talk to her healthcare provider. If a woman is breastfeeding, she should not use Depo Provera until her baby is at least six weeks old.

It’s also vital for women to know that Depo Provera does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Sexually active women should use a condom or other barrier method to protect against STIs.

Managing Side Effects After Discontinuation

It may take up to 10 months after discontinuing Depo-Provera for fertility to return to normal. Approximately 68% of women may conceive within 12 months after stopping Depo-Provera. Menstrual cycles can take several months to normalize after stopping Depo-Provera.

Some individuals may experience changes in their menstrual cycle even after discontinuing Depo Provera ci, possibly leading to missed periods.

Women discontinuing Depo-Provera often experience a decrease in depression levels within months after stopping Depo Provera ci.

Depo-Provera Brain Tumor Lawsuit Settlement Amounts

Recent evaluations indicate that average settlements for meningioma lawsuits related to Depo-Provera are around $867,555.56.

However, lawsuit settlements may vary greatly, with estimates suggesting amounts from $100,000 to over $5 million depending on the severity and impact of the brain tumor.

Factors influencing settlement values include the tumor’s severity, medical expenses, lost wages, and the overall effect on the individual’s quality of life.

Filing a Depo-Provera Brain Tumor Lawsuit

As of October 2024, lawsuits related to brain tumors from Depo-Provera use are still being investigated, with no formal verdicts or settlements in the U.S. yet.

Women who have been diagnosed with meningioma after using Depo-Provera may qualify to file a lawsuit if they meet specific criteria regarding the duration and frequency of use.

Get Your Free Consultation From Depo-Provera Lawsuit Lawyers

Schmidt & Clark,LLP is dedicated to assisting you during these difficult times. If you or someone you care about has been diagnosed with a brain tumor after receiving Depo-Provera Ci, please reach out to us. Our seasoned legal team specializes in pharmaceutical cases and will support you throughout the legal process.

We are here to help you understand your rights and determine your eligibility for compensation due to health issues. Our consultations are free, and we only charge fees if we win your case. Contact us for a comprehensive evaluation and to explore your legal options.

Reference:

1. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2004/20246s025lbl.pdf
2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/depo-provera/about/pac-20392204
3. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/4086-depo-provera-birth-control-shot