Depo Provera Lawsuit Updates
California Woman Sues Pfizer and Kaiser Over Depo-Provera Linked to Brain Tumors
A California woman has filed a lawsuit in Alameda County Superior Court alleging that nearly a decade of using Depo-Provera caused her to develop multiple intracranial meningiomas. The plaintiff received the injectable contraceptive through Kaiser facilities from 2016 to 2024 and was diagnosed in 2020 after experiencing vertigo and double vision. One tumor required surgical removal; others remain under monitoring. The suit names both Pfizer (manufacturer) and Kaiser entities as defendants, accusing Kaiser of promoting Depo-Provera as safe despite alleged knowledge of tumor risks and marketing itself as a source of independently vetted drug safety information.
Landmark Study Links Depo-Provera to Significant Increase in Brain Tumor Risk, Strengthening Litigation
A new Cleveland Clinic study published in JAMA Neurology has identified a significantly elevated risk of intracranial meningioma associated with long-term use of Depo-Provera. The research, which analyzed data from over ten million women, found that those who used the injectable contraceptive for more than four years or started after age 31 faced a relative risk of 2.43 compared to non-users—translating to one additional tumor per approximately 1,100 women. No other contraceptive form showed a measurable danger. This large-scale, U.S.-based study negates the defense argument that previously cited a lack of domestic data and provides plaintiffs with robust evidence to support claims that Pfizer failed to warn of unique risks despite safer alternatives.
Pfizer Seeks Preemption Defense in Depo-Provera MDL, Citing FDA Rejection of Meningioma Warning
Pfizer has filed a motion in the Depo-Provera MDL arguing that failure-to-warn claims are preempted because the FDA denied its 2024 application to add a meningioma warning. The company submitted epidemiological data, adverse event reports, and proposed language, but the FDA issued a complete response letter stating evidence did not support a label change. Pfizer contends this federal decision precludes state-law claims. Plaintiffs will counter that Pfizer withheld risk data for decades and could have used the Changes Being Effected (CBE) process to act earlier. They argue the FDA rejected only Pfizer’s insufficient proposal, not all warnings, and that the motion distracts from the company’s history of delaying patient protections. A preemption ruling could dismiss the litigation pre-discovery.
Files Motion for Preemption in Depo-Provera MDL
Pfizer is seeking preemption in the Depo-Provera multidistrict litigation, arguing the FDA’s denial of its 2024 petition to add a meningioma warning preempts state-law failure-to-warn claims. The company submitted epidemiological data and proposed language, which the FDA rejected, stating evidence was insufficient. However, this motion overlooks Pfizer’s decades-long awareness of the potential risk and its option to use the Changes Being Effected (CBE) process for unilateral label updates. Plaintiffs will contend the rejected petition represents a minimal effort, not a definitive regulatory barrier, and that the company remained passive despite known studies indicating a significantly increased risk. The motion aims to dismiss the litigation prior to discovery.
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.
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