Maryland Depo Provera Brain Tumor Lawsuit: What You Need to Know

Depo-Provera has been a convenient and effective birth control method for many women. However, the recent link to brain tumors, specifically meningiomas, has raised serious concerns. The following information covers the associated risks, legal claims, and ways to seek justice if affected.

If you or a loved one has developed a brain tumor associated with Depo-Provera use, Schmidt & Clark, LLP is here to support you. With extensive experience in pharmaceutical litigation, we are dedicated to securing the justice and compensation you deserve.

How S&C Can Help With Your Claim?

S&C can help with your claim by assisting if you wish to pursue legal action due to Depo-Provera side effects.

If you’re considering legal action due to the side effects of Depo-Provera, here’s how we can assist you:

• A free case review can explore your legal options without upfront costs. This review determines lawsuit eligibility and helps navigate the complex legal landscape with the support of Depo-Provera lawyers.
• Legal action against Depo-Provera’s manufacturer may cover medical expenses, lost wages, and more. Acting within the state’s statute of limitations is crucial to validate your claim.
• Schmidt & Clark’s expertise allows you to focus on your health while they manage the legal complexities to secure deserved financial compensation.

Depo-Provera Lawsuit Overview

Depo-Provera lawsuits have emerged due to the significant health risks associated with its prolonged use. Studies indicate that Depo-Provera users have a 5.6 times greater risk of developing meningiomas, a type of brain tumor.

These lawsuits claim that Pfizer, the manufacturer, failed to warn consumers about these risks adequately. As of September 2024, the litigation is still in its early stages, with no settlements or jury verdicts announced yet.

The recent evidence linking Depo-Provera to brain tumors has led to a wave of lawsuits and legal actions against Pfizer. We will delve into the specifics of these lawsuits in Maryland and provide a deeper understanding of Depo-Provera as a medication.

What is Depo-Provera?

Depo-Provera is a birth control shot known scientifically as medroxyprogesterone acetate, used to prevent pregnancy. The active ingredient works by inhibiting ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, and thinning the uterine lining [1].

Administered every three months, Depo-Provera injections are over 99% effective when used consistently.

Approved by the FDA in 1992, Depo-Provera has been a popular Depo-Provera birth control method for decades. Taking Depo Provera, despite its effectiveness, has raised serious concerns about the recent link to brain tumors, prompting many to reconsider its use and seek legal redress.

Is Depo-Provera Linked to Brain Tumors?

Depo-Provera is linked to brain tumors, particularly meningiomas, which have become a significant concern. Scientific studies have shown that women using Depo-Provera for over a year have a 5.6-fold increased risk of developing meningiomas. These tumors, while typically benign, can still pose serious health risks [2].

Despite being available since the early 1990s, Depo-Provera did not carry any warnings about the risk of developing brain tumors.

The recent findings have sparked legal actions and highlighted potential gaps in safety disclosures. To understand the gravity of this issue, it’s essential to know what meningiomas are and their symptoms.

What is Meningioma?

Meningioma is a type of brain tumor. It develops in the protective membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. Most meningiomas are classified as benign, but they can still cause significant health issues [3].

Treatment typically involves surgical removal, especially for Grade I meningiomas. More aggressive tumors, such as Grade II and III meningiomas, may require a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and possibly chemotherapy. Awareness of these tumors is essential for those impacted by Depo-Provera’s potential risks.

“18,061 women with meningioma to 90,305 controls, found that women using Depo-Provera are more than five times more likely to develop these brain tumors compared to non-users. This elevated risk is particularly significant among women aged 45-54.”- The British Medical Journal

Meningioma Symptoms

Meningioma symptoms often develop gradually and can vary widely based on the tumor’s location in the brain.

Common symptoms include [4]:

• visual disturbances
• persistent headaches
• hearing issues
• memory loss
• seizures
• weakness in their limbs

In some cases, changes in smell or speech difficulties may also occur. Seek emergency medical attention for sudden seizures or rapid changes in vision or memory. Recognizing these symptoms can lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment, enhancing outcomes.

Who Qualifies for a Depo-Provera Shot Lawsuit in Maryland?

Individuals who have received at least two injections of Depo-Provera and been diagnosed with a meningioma or another brain tumor following the injections qualify for a Depo-Provera shot lawsuit in Maryland.

Longer Depo-Provera usage can strengthen a lawsuit due to a higher risk of complications. Those affected by brain tumors or serious health issues from Depo-Provera, including their loved ones, should consider initiating a lawsuit.

Depo-Provera Brain Tumor Lawsuit Settlement Amounts in Maryland

Plaintiffs in Depo-Provera lawsuits may seek various compensation due to their injuries. This can include covering medical expenses related to meningioma treatment and lost wages due to missed work. Depending on the case, emotional suffering and punitive damages might also be considered.

Factors affecting compensation include the severity of health issues and their long-term consequences. The meningioma grade significantly influences the settlement amount, with potential values ranging from $275,000 to $500,000 and even tens of millions for Grade III cases. An experienced attorney can assess the extent of damages in a Depo-Provera lawsuit.

Filing a Depo-Provera Brain Tumor Lawsuit in Maryland

Filing a Depo-Provera brain tumor lawsuit in Maryland involves several steps. Compensation may cover medical expenses and lost wages, addressing immediate and future financial impacts. Focus on your health during the lawsuit process.

Solid evidence is essential to build a strong case, including medical records, prescription records, and personal testimonies substantiating your Depo-Provera lawsuits claim.

Types of Evidence To Present

The success of a Depo-Provera lawsuit heavily relies on the evidence presented. Comprehensive documentation of medical history is crucial. Medical records confirming Depo-Provera use and brain tumor diagnosis are essential.

Types of evidence to present:

• Medical records confirming Depo-Provera use and brain tumor diagnosis
• Prescription records establishing the timeline and frequency of Depo-Provera use
• Evidence linking Depo-Provera to your brain tumor
• Documentation of treatments received
• Detailed financial records substantiating claims for economic damages related to treatment
• Personal testimonies and accounts of the condition’s impact

These pieces of evidence can significantly strengthen your case.

Get Your Free Consultation From Maryland Depo-Provera Lawsuit Lawyers

Schmidt & Clark is here to support you during these difficult times. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a brain tumor following the use of a contraceptive injection such as Depo Subq Provera, please reach out to us. Our seasoned legal team specializes in pharmaceutical-related cases and will assist you through every stage of the legal process.

We are dedicated to helping you understand your rights and determine your eligibility for compensation related to your health issues. 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.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/depo-provera/about/pac-20392204#:~:text=Depo%2DProvera%20is%20a%20well,ovaries%20from%20releasing%20an%20egg.
2. https://www.bmj.com/content/384/bmj-2023-078078
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560538/#:~:text=Meningioma%20is%20a%20tumor%20that,discovered%20incidentally%20during%20imaging%20studies.
4. https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/patient-information/conditions-treated-a-to-z/meningioma