Published by If you or a loved one experienced brain tumors or meningiomas following Depo-Provera contraceptive use, you may be entitled to pursue compensation.
At Schmidt & Clark, we are dedicated to helping individuals who have suffered due to dangerous pharmaceutical products.
Our experienced legal team is here to guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact Schmidt & Clark today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Table Of Contents
- Depo-Provera Lawsuit Overview
- Latest Depo-Provera Lawsuit Updates
- FDA Reports and Statistics
- Depo-Provera Injuries & Side Effects
- Do You Qualify for a Depo-Provera Lawsuit?
- Depo-Provera Recall Information
- Statute of Limitations for Depo-Provera Lawsuits
- FAQs
- 1. What is Depo-Provera and how does it work?
- 2. How strong is the link between Depo-Provera and brain tumors?
- 3. What are the common symptoms of meningioma?
- 4. How much compensation can I receive from a Depo-Provera lawsuit?
- 5. How do I know if I qualify for a Depo-Provera lawsuit in Missouri?
- 6. What evidence do I need to support my Depo-Provera lawsuit?
- 7. Who is the manufacturer of Depo-Provera and what are they accused of?
- Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims
- References
Depo-Provera Lawsuit Overview
Depo-Provera is an injectable contraceptive linked to severe health risks, leading to numerous lawsuits. The primary concern is its association with meningiomas, a type of brain tumor that can remain undetected for years [1].
Recent studies show women using Depo-Provera may be over five times more likely to develop meningiomas compared to non-users.
Pfizer faces potential liability for failing to adequately warn users about the risks of meningioma associated with Depo-Provera birth control.
Latest Depo-Provera Lawsuit Updates
The FDA has received new data prompting updates to Depo-Provera’s prescribing guidelines, reflecting increasing safety concerns about the injectable contraceptive.
Recent studies published in The British Medical Journal have found that Depo-Provera (medroxyprogesterone acetate) increased the risk of intracranial meningioma 5.6-fold if used for longer than a year.
These findings have led to a surge in lawsuits against Pfizer, with plaintiffs claiming the manufacturer failed to warn them about the drug’s risks adequately.
Potential settlements for successful Depo-Provera brain tumor lawsuits in Missouri can range from $275,000 to over $1 million, depending on the severity of the tumors.
FDA Reports and Statistics
Depo-Provera is linked to brain tumors, with recent studies showing a significant association between long-term use of Depo-Provera birth control and an increased risk of developing meningioma brain tumors [2].
Approximately 37.6% of all primary central nervous system tumors are classified as meningiomas, with about half being benign according to medical research [3].
Women using Depo-Provera for five years or more face a significantly increased risk of developing these tumors.
Meningiomas are categorized into three grades based on their histopathological features, primarily determined by their potential for malignancy:
- Grade I: Non-cancerous, slow-growing
- Grade II: Atypical, more aggressive
- Grade III: Malignant, most aggressive
The recurrence rates for meningiomas vary by grade, with benign tumors showing much lower recurrence than malignant types. These classifications directly influence the severity of claims in Depo-Provera brain tumor lawsuits.
Depo-Provera Injuries & Side Effects
Users of Depo-Provera have reported numerous serious side effects, with brain tumors being among the most severe health concerns [4]:
- Meningiomas: Tumors arising from the protective layers surrounding the brain and spinal cord, which can cause serious neurological symptoms
- Vision Changes: Including double vision, blurriness, or other visual disturbances
- Neurological Issues: Headaches, memory loss, seizures, limb weakness, and difficulty speaking
- Hearing Problems: Including loss or ringing in the ears
- Bone Density Loss: Leading to increased risk of fractures and osteoporosis
- Hormonal Imbalances: Causing various systemic effects throughout the body
Do You Qualify for a Depo-Provera Lawsuit?
You may qualify for a Depo-Provera lawsuit if:
- You received at least two Depo-Provera injections
- You have a confirmed diagnosis of a brain tumor, such as meningioma
- Your medical records demonstrate both the use of Depo-Provera and the diagnosis of a brain tumor
- You can establish a timeline linking Depo-Provera use to the development of symptoms
Evidence Required for a Depo-Provera Lawsuit
- Medical records documenting the diagnosis and treatment of meningioma
- Prescription history showing the duration of Depo-Provera use
- Expert testimonies from medical professionals regarding the risks associated with Depo-Provera
- Timeline demonstrating the onset of symptoms following Depo-Provera use
- Documented communication with healthcare providers regarding the risks and warnings about Depo-Provera
Damages You Can Recover
- Medical expenses related to diagnosis and treatment of brain tumors
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering, including emotional distress
- Future medical care and rehabilitation costs
- Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence
Depo-Provera Recall Information
Depo-Provera is an injectable contraceptive containing progestin, a synthetic hormone that prevents ovulation and alters cervical mucus to prevent pregnancy.
While there has not been a formal recall of the product, the FDA has required updated prescribing guidelines based on new safety data regarding the risk of meningiomas.
Administered every three months, Depo-Provera shots are popular among women who prefer not to take daily pills. However, medroxyprogesterone acetate has been linked to severe health risks, prompting ongoing Depo-Provera lawsuits and compensation discussions.
“Depo-Provera (medroxyprogesterone acetate) increased the risk of intracranial meningioma 5.6-fold if used for longer than a year.”- The British Medical Journal
Statute of Limitations for Depo-Provera Lawsuits
In Missouri, the statute of limitations for filing a product liability lawsuit is generally five years from the date the injury was discovered or should have been discovered.
However, this timeframe can vary based on individual circumstances and when the connection between Depo-Provera and brain tumors was reasonably discoverable.
Given the complex nature of these cases and the potential for the statute of limitations to be affected by various factors, it’s crucial to consult with an attorney specializing in pharmaceutical litigation as soon as possible after diagnosis.
FAQs
1. What is Depo-Provera and how does it work?
Depo-Provera is an injectable contraceptive containing progestin (medroxyprogesterone acetate) that prevents pregnancy by stopping ovulation and thickening cervical mucus. It’s administered as a shot every three months and is popular among women who prefer not to take daily pills.
2. How strong is the link between Depo-Provera and brain tumors?
Recent studies show women using Depo-Provera may be over five times more likely to develop meningiomas compared to non-users, with the risk increasing significantly for those using the drug for five years or more. The British Medical Journal found a 5.6-fold increased risk of intracranial meningioma if used longer than a year.
3. What are the common symptoms of meningioma?
Common symptoms include vision changes (double vision, blurriness), morning headaches, hearing issues (loss or ringing), memory loss, seizures, limb weakness, and difficulty speaking. Symptoms often develop gradually and can be difficult to detect initially.
4. How much compensation can I receive from a Depo-Provera lawsuit?
Potential settlements can range from $275,000 to over $1 million, depending on the severity of the brain tumor, the extent of medical treatment, and other damages. Compensation typically covers medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.
5. How do I know if I qualify for a Depo-Provera lawsuit in Missouri?
You may qualify if you received at least two Depo-Provera injections and have a confirmed diagnosis of a brain tumor, such as meningioma. Medical records demonstrating both use of the contraceptive and the diagnosis are essential for establishing eligibility.
6. What evidence do I need to support my Depo-Provera lawsuit?
Key evidence includes medical records documenting diagnosis and treatment, prescription history showing duration of use, expert medical testimonies, a timeline of symptoms, and any documentation of communication with healthcare providers about risks and warnings.
7. Who is the manufacturer of Depo-Provera and what are they accused of?
Pfizer is the manufacturer of Depo-Provera. They are accused of potential liability for failing to adequately warn users about the risks of meningioma associated with the contraceptive, with plaintiffs claiming negligence and misrepresentation in product labeling and marketing.
Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims
Time is limited to pursue legal action for injuries related to Depo-Provera. In Missouri, the statute of limitations is generally five years from the date the injury was discovered, making it crucial to act quickly to preserve your legal rights.
Schmidt & Clark offers:
- Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
- No upfront costs or fees for our services
- Payment only if we successfully win your case
- Specialized Depo-Provera lawyers focused on pharmaceutical litigation
Our seasoned legal team will guide you through each step of the legal process, helping you understand your rights and determine your eligibility for compensation related to your health issues.
References
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/depo-provera/about/pac-20392204#:~:text=Depo%2DProvera%20is%20a%20well,ovaries%20from%20releasing%20an%20eg
- https://www.bmj.com/content/384/bmj-2023-078078
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560538/#:~:text=Meningioma%20is%20a%20tumor%20that,discovered%20incidentally%20during%20imaging%20studies.
- https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/patient-information/conditions-treated-a-to-z/meningioma