Depo Provera Lawsuit Updates
Depo-Provera Litigation Shifts from Philadelphia to Federal MDL After Consolidation Effort Fails
Planned coordination of Depo-Provera lawsuits in Philadelphia’s Court of Common Pleas has dissolved after a judge severed nearly 100 plaintiffs from a consolidated case, permitting refiling as individual suits. Pfizer subsequently withdrew its coordination petition, leaving only one active case in Philadelphia. While the state docket is now inactive, litigation momentum continues elsewhere: over 400 cases are progressing in the federal MDL (Northern District of Florida), with additional suits filed in state courts nationwide. This redirects focus to federal and dispersed state venues for the foreseeable future.
Massachusetts Woman Joins Depo-Provera MDL, Alleging Contraceptive Injections Caused Brain Tumor
A Massachusetts woman has filed a lawsuit against Depo-Provera manufacturers, alleging that contraceptive injections administered from 2016 to 2022 caused her to develop an intracranial meningioma. Diagnosed in 2022, the plaintiff underwent extensive radiation treatment for the brain tumor and asserts ongoing neurological and psychological injuries as a result. This case is the latest addition to the growing multidistrict litigation (MDL) targeting the medication. The suit claims direct causation between Depo-Provera use and the tumor, seeking damages for medical harm and long-term disability.
Key Hearing in Pfizer Depo-Provera Litigation Set for September 2025
On September 29, 2025, Judge M. Casey Rodgers will hear oral arguments on Pfizer’s motion for federal preemption—a ruling that could dismiss over 400 cases before discovery. Pfizer argues that state failure-to-warn claims are preempted because the FDA previously rejected a proposed brain tumor warning for Depo-Provera. Plaintiffs will counter that preemption is an exceptional defense requiring a high legal bar, which Pfizer has not met. They contend the FDA’s rejection was not an absolute prohibition and that federal law permits state claims when new safety risks emerge. Recent studies linking Depo-Provera to elevated tumor risks underscore Pfizer’s duty to act, regardless of FDA reluctance. The hearing’s outcome will shape whether the litigation advances or ends prematurely. A decision is expected in October.
State Courts Play Growing Role in Depo-Provera Litigation
Depo-Provera meningioma lawsuits are advancing in multiple state courts alongside the federal MDL, establishing a dual track of litigation expected to persist. In California, six cases are pending, with a petition for coordination under review. The Judicial Council has asked Alameda County’s Presiding Judge to recommend a coordination judge and venue. New York is emerging as a key forum with 60 cases pending. The Litigation Coordinating Panel has stayed 58 cases and set a June 18 deadline for opposition to a joint coordination petition, though opposition is unlikely. Both parties have agreed to use BrownGreer Centrality for case management. Additional cases are proceeding in Pennsylvania, Illinois, New Mexico, and Delaware, with cooperative efforts underway to streamline discovery and motions, ensuring state court actions remain pivotal in shaping the litigation’s outcome.
About The Depo-Provera Lawsuit
Depo Provera was once a popular birth control choice for women seeking long-term contraception without the inconvenience of taking daily pills. However, disturbing claims have recently started to surface that the birth control injections can lead to the development of brain tumors.
As more women face the diagnosis of brain tumors after using Depo Provera, many are coming forward, claiming that they were never told about the risks associated with the drug.
What Is Depo Provera?
Depo Provera (depot medroxyprogesterone acetate), manufactured by Pfizer, is an injectable form of birth control that relies on progestin. It works by slowly releasing the hormone to prevent ovulation for 12 to 14 weeks between injections.
Often referred to as the “Depo Shot”, the injection is administered by a healthcare professional into the muscles of the arm or buttocks. Many women relied on this convenient option, trusting that it was safe for long-term use.
Why Is Depo Provera Dangerous?
The problem lies in the alleged connection between Depo Provera and meningiomas, which are tumors that form on the brain and spinal cord. Recent studies have suggested a link between prolonged use of Depo Provera and an increased risk of developing brain tumors.
Despite these potential dangers, Pfizer is accused of failing to warn the women using the birth control method of the possible risks. Women who took Depo Provera for extended periods may have unknowingly exposed themselves to these risks. Many are now facing serious health consequences.
What Health Issues Are Linked to Depo Provera?
The primary concern associated with Depo Provera is its link to meningioma tumors. Although meningioma brain tumors are often benign, they can still cause significant health problems due to their location.
In many cases, meningioma tumors may require surgery. They can also lead to other complications like headaches, vision problems, or even seizures.
Women who took Depo Provera for years are now dealing with these life-altering conditions, and they’re looking for answers.
What Are the Claims in the Lawsuits?
Around the world, millions of women have used Depo Provera and generic versions to prevent pregnancy since approval in 1992 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
A study released in March 2024 and carried out by the British Medical Journal (BMJ) found that women who used Depo Provera were 5.6 times more likely to develop a brain tumor.
Reports show that the risks associated with Depo Provera and the development of brain tumors have been submitted to the FDA for decades. The data also shows that incidences of brain tumors are continuing to increase. Despite the reports, Pfizer failed to warn women about the potential risks.
The main claims in the Depo Provera lawsuits include:
- Pfizer failed to warn users about the potential link between Depo Provera and brain tumors.
- The company was negligent in its duty to ensure the drug’s safety.
- Women were put at risk due to the lack of proper testing.
- Many women claim that the potential serious side effects associated with the Depo Shot were never disclosed.
How To Pre-Qualify For The Depo Provera Lawsuit
To pre-qualify, you must have used Depo-Provera, Depo-SubQ Provera, or an authorized generic form of medroxyprogesterone acetate at least twice after 1992.
You must have also been diagnosed with meningioma or a brain tumor at least 2 years after your first shot.
Factors like the length of Depo-Provera use, the time between the last use and your diagnosis, as well as the type of brain tumor or meningioma diagnosed, will also be considered. You will need to speak to a lawyer about the specifics of your case.
The Rise of Depo Provera Lawsuits
As more women learn about the possible dangers of Depo Provera, lawsuits are being submitted across the country. Many of these lawsuits claim that Pfizer failed to adequately warn women about the risks of developing meningiomas.
Women who used Depo Provera are seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to their diagnoses. The goal of the plaintiffs is to hold Pfizer accountable for the harm caused by their product.
What Can You Do if You Took Depo Provera?
If you took Depo Provera and later developed a brain tumor, you may be eligible to join a class action lawsuit.
Your first step should be to consult with your doctor to discuss your use of Depo Provera and determine if your health problems are linked to the use of injectable birth control.
If you’ve been diagnosed with a brain tumor, you may be able to pursue financial compensation. First, you’ll want to gather your medical records, including documentation of your Depo Provera use and your diagnosis.
What Are Your Next Steps?
If you or a loved one has been affected by Depo Provera, now is the time to take action. Thousands of women are seeking justice for the harm they’ve suffered, and you may be entitled to compensation.
Joining a class action lawsuit is about more than obtaining a settlement. It’s also about holding Pfizer accountable for the safety of the products they sell.
Join a Class Action Lawsuit
The potential dangers of Depo Provera have left many women feeling betrayed and uncertain about their future and health.
If you’ve taken Depo Provera and are now facing health issues, you’re not alone. Class action lawsuits offer a way to seek justice and compensation for the suffering and associated risks of using Depo Provera.
Don’t wait. Consult with your doctor, explore your legal options, and take steps to protect your rights. We encourage you to start the process of finding out if you may qualify for a Depo Provera class action lawsuit. We can help you stay informed and provide you with the latest updates regarding the lawsuit. Subscribe to OnlyClassActions for further details.
Add Comment