Depo-Provera, a long-acting injectable contraceptive, is used by millions of women to prevent pregnancy. The shot works by suppressing ovulation and thickening cervical mucus and must be administered every three months to remain effective. However, Depo-Provera is associated with several harmful side effects and health complications, leading many to wonder—can this medication cause withdrawal symptoms?
Dosing and Administration of Depo-Provera
Healthcare providers administer Depo-Provera as a 150-milligram intramuscular injection every three months. The first dose requires careful timing; depending on the patient, it must be given:
- Within the first five days of a normal menstrual period
- Within five days postpartum for non-breastfeeding mothers
- Six weeks postpartum for breastfeeding mothers
Patients must receive their shots every three months or their risk for pregnancy increases. Before they get the next dose, late patients will need to take a pregnancy test. Long-term use of Depo-Provera is not recommended due to the risk of bone density loss and osteoporosis; this can affect women of all ages, but especially teenagers and young women, who are in critical years of bone development.
Reported Side Effects After Stopping Depo-Provera
Few women experience withdrawal symptoms after discontinuing Depo-Provera. Some patients have reported flu-like symptoms or irregular bleeding patterns. However, scientific evidence has not established a clear connection between these symptoms and discontinuation. Instead, they are likely related to their bodies readjusting to natural hormone cycles rather than true withdrawal effects.
Other Conditions Associated with Depo-Provera Use
Although Depo-Provera is not associated with withdrawal, the medication can still cause serious side effects during its use, including an increased risk of brain tumors. In addition to the risk of bone density loss, patients have reported the following conditions:
- Blood clots in arms, legs, lungs, and eyes
- Stroke
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Severe allergic reactions
- Vision loss and other eye problems
- Migraine headaches
- Depression
- Seizures
- Liver problems
- Slightly increased risk of breast cancer
Most alarmingly, a March 2024 study published in BMJ revealed that long-term Depo-Provera users have a 5.6-times higher risk of developing meningioma, a type of brain tumor. While typically non-cancerous, these tumors can press against vital structures in the brain and cause severe neurological symptoms.
Many patients need surgery to alleviate these complications, but these complex procedures carry significant risks. Meningioma can also result in permanent disability, affecting patients’ lives for years to come. Despite the dangers of these brain tumors, the warnings and instructions for Depo-Provera did not indicate this elevated risk, despite the drug being around since the 1990s.
Speak to a Lawyer at Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC Today
The link between Depo-Provera and serious health complications, particularly meningioma, is scary and serious. Many former patients are pursuing lawsuits against Pfizer, the manufacturer of Depo-Provera, for failing to warn them about the risks of brain tumors. These claims allow them to recover compensation to help pay for medical care, pain and suffering, and more.
Women who developed meningioma while using Depo-Provera deserve skilled legal representation to protect their rights and pursue appropriate compensation. If you want to pursue a Depo-Provera lawsuit, trust Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC to fight for you.
We represent women nationwide who have suffered adverse effects from this contraceptive medication. Contact us at (800) 220-0984 for a free, confidential consultation about your potential Depo-Provera lawsuit and begin your legal journey today.