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

Massachusetts Depo Provera Brain Tumor Lawsuit Overview

Depo-Provera lawsuits allege that the injectable contraceptive manufactured by Pfizer causes brain tumors, specifically meningiomas.

Plaintiffs claim that the manufacturer failed to adequately warn patients and healthcare providers about this serious risk.

Over 500 cases have been reported nationwide, with numerous cases now being consolidated in state courts.

The FDA has issued safety communications regarding the potential link between hormonal contraceptives and certain types of brain tumors.

Latest Depo-Provera Lawsuit Updates

• March 15, 2025 – Massachusetts state court system has consolidated all Depo-Provera brain tumor lawsuits into a multi-district litigation (MDL) in Suffolk County Superior Court. Judge Maria Rodriguez will oversee the proceedings, which currently include 47 cases alleging meningioma development after prolonged Depo-Provera use.
• January 28, 2025 – Pfizer’s motion to dismiss several Depo-Provera brain tumor lawsuits in Massachusetts was denied. The court ruled that plaintiffs had presented sufficient evidence of a potential causal link between the medication and meningioma development to proceed to discovery.
• November 12, 2024 – A peer-reviewed study published in the Journal of Neuropharmacology found that prolonged exposure to high doses of medroxyprogesterone acetate (the active ingredient in Depo-Provera) was associated with a 2.5-fold increased risk of meningioma development in patients using the drug for more than 5 years.
• September 3, 2024 – First bellwether trial date set for June 2025 in Massachusetts. This trial will serve as an indicator for how future cases may proceed and potential settlement values.
• July 18, 2024 – FDA announced enhanced monitoring of progestin-based contraceptives following multiple reports of brain tumor development in long-term users. The agency stopped short of requiring new black box warnings but is conducting further investigation.

FDA Reports and Statistics

According to the FDA’s Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) and MAUDE database, there have been 728 reported cases of neurological adverse events associated with Depo-Provera, including 217 confirmed cases of meningioma development.

These reports have led to the following regulatory actions:

• Issuance of a safety communication in 2024 alerting healthcare providers to monitor patients on long-term Depo-Provera therapy
• Required updated medication guides highlighting potential neurological risks
• Ongoing safety review of all progestin-based contraceptives

Depo-Provera Injuries & Side Effects

Users of Depo-Provera have reported a range of serious neurological complications, with brain tumors being the most severe among them.

• Meningiomas: Non-cancerous tumors that form on membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, potentially causing headaches, vision problems, and seizures
• Intracranial Hypertension: Increased pressure in the skull leading to severe headaches and vision changes
• Pseudotumor Cerebri: Condition mimicking brain tumor symptoms including vision loss and severe headaches
• Neurological Damage: Potential for permanent damage to brain tissue and neurological function
• Vision Impairment: Partial or complete vision loss due to pressure on optic nerves

Do You Qualify for a Depo-Provera Lawsuit?

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

• You used Depo-Provera contraceptive injections between 2000 and present
• You received multiple injections over a period of at least 1 year
• You were diagnosed with a meningioma or other brain tumor after starting Depo-Provera
• Your diagnosis occurred within 10 years of using the medication
• You have medical documentation confirming both your Depo-Provera use and tumor diagnosis

Evidence Required for a Depo-Provera Lawsuit

To build a strong case, the following evidence will be necessary:

• Medical records documenting Depo-Provera prescriptions and administration
• Documentation of brain tumor diagnosis, including imaging studies and pathology reports
• Timeline showing correlation between drug use and symptom development
• Medical expert testimony establishing causation
• Proof of ongoing medical treatment and related expenses

Damages You Can Recover

Successful plaintiffs in Depo-Provera brain tumor lawsuits may recover compensation for:

• All medical expenses related to diagnosis and treatment
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering due to physical and emotional trauma
• Costs of ongoing care and rehabilitation
• Loss of quality of life and enjoyment
• Punitive damages in cases of extreme negligence

Depo-Provera Recall Information

As of March 2025, there has been no official recall of Depo-Provera. However, regulatory agencies including the FDA have increased monitoring and required additional safety warnings.

Several medical associations have issued guidance recommending limited use of the drug, particularly for patients with risk factors for neurological conditions or hormonal sensitivities.

Statute of Limitations for Depo-Provera Lawsuits

Time limits for filing Depo-Provera brain tumor lawsuits vary by state:

• Massachusetts: 3 years from date of diagnosis or date you reasonably should have known about the connection between Depo-Provera and your injury
• California: 2 years from date of injury discovery
• New York: 3 years from date of injury
• Texas: 2 years from date of injury

These timeframes may be extended under certain circumstances, including when the manufacturer concealed information or when injuries manifest later. Consult with an attorney immediately to ensure your claim is filed within the applicable deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much is my Depo-Provera brain tumor case worth?

While each case is unique, current settlement estimates range from $150,000 to over $1 million, depending on factors including severity of the brain tumor, extent of treatment required, permanent damage, and impact on quality of life. Early cases are still progressing through the legal system, so definitive settlement values have not yet been established.

2. How long will my Depo-Provera lawsuit take?

Most pharmaceutical mass tort cases take 2-4 years to resolve. With the first bellwether trials scheduled for June 2025, initial settlements could begin by late 2025 or early 2026. Complex cases involving severe injuries may take longer to resolve.

3. What is the connection between Depo-Provera and brain tumors?

Scientific studies indicate that the synthetic progestin (medroxyprogesterone acetate) in Depo-Provera can stimulate growth of meningioma cells, which have progesterone receptors. Long-term exposure, particularly at higher doses, appears to significantly increase risk of tumor development in susceptible individuals.

4. Can I file a lawsuit if I’m still using Depo-Provera?

Yes, you can file a lawsuit while still using the medication, though your attorney may recommend consulting with your healthcare provider about alternative contraceptive options given your medical history.

5. Will filing a lawsuit affect my medical care?

No, filing a lawsuit should not impact your medical treatment. Your healthcare information remains protected under HIPAA, and healthcare providers cannot legally discriminate against patients involved in pharmaceutical litigation.

6. Is this a class action or individual lawsuit?

While cases are being consolidated for pretrial proceedings in Massachusetts, these remain individual lawsuits rather than class actions. This means each case will be evaluated on its specific merits and damages.

7. What if I used Depo-Provera years ago?

You may still qualify if your brain tumor diagnosis occurred within a reasonable timeframe after using the medication. The statute of limitations typically begins when you discovered or should have discovered the connection between Depo-Provera and your injury.

8. How do I know if my brain tumor is related to Depo-Provera?

Medical experts evaluate factors including the type of tumor (meningiomas are most commonly associated), timing of drug use relative to diagnosis, duration of use, and presence of progesterone receptors in tumor tissue. Your attorney will work with medical specialists to establish this connection.

Get A Free Massachusetts Depo Provera Brain Tumor Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action for Depo-Provera brain tumor injuries. Massachusetts law provides only 3 years from the date of injury discovery to file your claim. Waiting too long could permanently forfeit your right to compensation.

Our experienced team of pharmaceutical litigation attorneys offers:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
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We have successfully represented thousands of clients in pharmaceutical injury cases, securing millions in compensation for victims of dangerous drugs and medical devices.