Depo-SubQ Provera Brain Tumor Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

Depo-SubQ Provera Brain Tumor Lawsuit Overview

Multiple lawsuits have recently been filed across the U.S. against Pfizer Inc., the manufacturer of Depo-SubQ Provera, alleging that the birth control shot increases the risk of developing brain tumors. 

The lawsuits claim that Depo-SubQ Provera’s active ingredient, medroxyprogesterone acetate, may increase the risk of meningiomas, a potentially-cancerous tumor that grows from the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

Meningiomas are the most common type of primary brain tumor, accounting for nearly 30% of all cases [1].

Latest Depo-SubQ Provera Brain Tumor Lawsuit Updates

February 24, 2025 – Latest lawsuit updates indicate continuing legal action against Pfizer regarding Depo-SubQ Provera’s alleged link to brain tumors, with many victims seeking compensation for medical expenses and suffering.

September 2024 – Pfizer faced increasing legal scrutiny regarding its failure to provide adequate warnings about the brain tumor risk. Lawsuits related to meningioma risks were expected to rise as more research and patient reports surfaced.

August 2024 – Depo-SubQ Provera lawsuits continued to be filed across the United States as more individuals sought legal action for health complications linked to the contraceptive.

March 2024 – A study published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) linked prolonged use of injectable medroxyprogesterone acetate (Depo-Provera) to an increased risk of meningiomas, finding a 5.6-fold increase in risk after one year or more of use.

In countries for which the use of medroxyprogesterone acetate for birth control is frequent [74 million users worldwide], the number of attributable meningiomas may be potentially high,” the BMJ study’s authors concluded, We are aware of this potential risk associated with long-term use of progestogens and, in collaboration with regulatory agencies, are in the process of updating product labels and patient information leaflets with appropriate wording,” Pfizer said in response to the study’s findings

Depo-SubQ Provera Reports and Statistics

A study published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) found that using Depo-Provera for more than one year may increase the likelihood of developing meningiomas by 5.6 times. With 74 million women worldwide using Depo-Provera, the number of cases linked to these tumors could be significantly high.

In response to the study’s findings, Pfizer stated: “We are aware of this potential risk associated with long-term use of progestogens and, in collaboration with regulatory agencies, are in the process of updating product labels and patient information leaflets with appropriate wording.”

In November 2004, a black box warning was added to the label, highlighting significant bone density loss risks with prolonged use [2].

Depo-SubQ Provera Injuries & Side Effects

Depo-SubQ Provera has been associated with several potential health risks, with brain tumors (meningiomas) being the most serious concern.

• Intracranial Meningiomas: Tumors that develop from the meninges, the protective layers surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
• Breakthrough Bleeding and Irregular Periods: Spotting or heavier periods in some women
• Weight Gain: Increased appetite and metabolic changes.
• Bone Mineral Density Loss: Long-term use may contribute to osteoporosis.
• Neurological Issues: Vision problems, memory loss, and rare cases of cognitive impairment.

The following table highlights the differences in brain tumor risk across various contraceptive methods:

Do You Qualify for a Depo-SubQ Provera Brain Tumor Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Depo-SubQ Provera brain tumor lawsuit if:

• You received Depo-Provera, Depo-SubQ Provera, or an authorized generic version at least twice before your meningioma or brain tumor diagnosis.
• You used Depo-Provera at least once within the 12 months before diagnosis.
• You experienced serious side effects including meningioma or other brain tumors.
• The injuries required medical treatment or hospitalization.
• You can provide medical documentation linking your injuries to Depo-SubQ Provera.

Evidence Required for a Depo-SubQ Provera Brain Tumor Lawsuit

• Confirmed Brain Tumor Diagnosis: A medical confirmation of meningioma or another type of brain tumor is required, typically diagnosed via MRI or CT scan.
• Proof of Depo-Provera Use: Prescription records, doctor’s notes, pharmacy records, and any other medical documentation confirming your usage history.
• Imaging Reports: Diagnostic imaging results showing the presence of a tumor help establish the connection between Depo-Provera use and brain tumor development.
• Symptom Timeline: Detailed medical records documenting symptoms leading up to the diagnosis.

Damages You Can Recover

• Medical Expenses: Covers past and future medical bills, including diagnostic tests, treatments, surgeries, rehabilitation, and medications.
• Lost Wages: Provides reimbursement for time off work due to illness, as well as compensation for reduced earning capacity if the condition impacts long-term employment.
• Pain and Suffering: Accounts for the physical pain and emotional distress associated with meningiomas and related health complications.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation for a diminished quality of life, particularly for individuals experiencing vision loss, cognitive impairments, or neurological issues.
• Punitive Damages: If Pfizer is found to have knowingly withheld safety information about Depo-Provera, plaintiffs may be awarded additional compensation.

Statute of Limitations for Depo-SubQ Provera Brain Tumor Lawsuits

The deadline to file a lawsuit depends on your state’s statute of limitations, which typically requires filing within a specific period after discovering the injury (in this case, the brain tumor diagnosis). Consulting an attorney as soon as possible is crucial to ensure your claim is filed within the legal timeframe.

Related Articles:

• Depo-Provera Brain Tumor Lawsuit
• Trulicity Stomach Paralysis Lawsuit
• Rybelsus Stomach Paralysis

FAQs

1. What is Depo-SubQ Provera?

Depo-SubQ Provera is a contraceptive injection containing the hormone progestin, administered every 12 to 14 weeks [3]. It works by preventing the ovaries from releasing an egg and by altering the cervical mucus to block sperm from reaching the egg, thereby preventing pregnancy. Additionally, it can be used to help alleviate pain related to endometriosis.

2. What’s the difference between Depo-Provera and Depo-SubQ Provera?

The main distinction lies in how and where they are injected. Depo-Provera is injected deep into the muscle (typically in the buttocks or deltoid) using a larger needle and delivers 150 mg of progestin. Depo-SubQ Provera is injected just beneath the skin (usually in the thigh or abdomen) using a smaller needle and delivers 104 mg of progestin.

3. How does Depo-Provera increase the risk of brain tumors?

Studies have shown that long-term use of Depo-Provera may increase the risk of developing intracranial meningiomas, particularly in women over time. A study published in the British Medical Journal found that using Depo-Provera for more than one year may increase the likelihood of developing these tumors by 5.6 times.

4. What are the symptoms of intracranial meningiomas?

Early symptoms include headaches, dizziness, mild vision changes, and behavioral or personality changes. Progressive symptoms include persistent headaches, vision problems, hearing loss, seizures, memory issues, and muscle weakness. Emergency symptoms requiring immediate medical attention include severe sudden-onset headaches, rapid vision loss, seizures, and paralysis.

5. What compensation is available in a Depo-SubQ Provera lawsuit?

Potential compensation includes coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and possibly punitive damages. Settlement amounts typically range from $100,000 to $500,000 depending on case specifics.

6. How do I file a Depo-SubQ Provera lawsuit?

The process involves gathering medical documentation, consulting with an experienced attorney, building strong legal evidence, officially filing the lawsuit, and proceeding through settlement negotiations or trial. A free case evaluation is available to determine if you qualify.

7. Are there any exclusions for qualifying for a lawsuit?

You may not qualify if you used Depo-Provera fewer than two times, exclusively used an unauthorized generic version, your brain tumor diagnosis occurred before you started Depo-Provera, or there is strong evidence of another cause for your brain tumor unrelated to Depo-Provera.

8. What is the expected timeline for a Depo-SubQ Provera lawsuit?

The duration varies, but generally involves 1-3 months for case evaluation and evidence collection, within 30 days for filing the lawsuit, 3-6 months for the discovery phase, and a variable period for negotiation or trial preparation depending on case complexity.

Get a Free Depo-SubQ Provera Brain Tumor Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action related to Depo-SubQ Provera brain tumors. The statute of limitations varies by state, meaning you have a limited window from the date of your diagnosis to file a claim.

Schmidt & Clark, LLP offers:

• Free, confidential consultations
• No upfront costs or fees
• Payment only if we win your case

References

1. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/meningioma#:~:text=Meningioma%20is%20the%20most%20common,CSF%20flow%2C%20leading%20to%20hydrocephalus.
2. https://downloads.regulations.gov/FDA-2019-P-2289-0013/attachment_5.pdf
3. https://labeling.pfizer.com/ShowLabeling.aspx?id=549