Millions of women across the United States trust Depo-Provera as their birth control method of choice. While this injectable contraceptive is more convenient than taking a daily pill, emerging research raises serious concerns about its long-term health impacts.
Medical studies reveal troubling links between Depo-Provera and various health complications, including potentially serious brain tumors known as meningiomas. Now, many women are questioning whether the convenience of this birth control option outweighs its risks. If you’ve been harmed by this contraceptive, a Depo-Provera brain tumor injury attorney may be able to assist you.
What Is Depo-Provera and How Does It Work?
Depo-Provera is a long-acting form of birth control delivered through an injection every 12 weeks. The shot contains medroxyprogesterone acetate, a synthetic form of progesterone that prevents pregnancy. Once injected into the arm or buttocks, this hormone stops ovulation, thickens cervical mucus, and creates an environment that prevents sperm from reaching any eggs that might be released.
This medication is only effective if the injections are given on schedule. Patients must receive their shots every 12 weeks, though they have a two-week grace period before the effectiveness decreases significantly. The first injection is given within seven days before the patient starts her period and after tests confirm that she is not pregnant.
Common Side Effects Associated with Depo-Provera
Women who choose Depo-Provera may experience a range of side effects that vary in severity and duration. The most frequently reported change affects the menstrual cycle; many users notice irregular bleeding patterns or eventually stop having periods altogether. This is a normal side effect, and menstruation typically resumes after the patient stops taking Depo-Provera.
Other side effects of Depo-Provera can significantly impact self-esteem, mental health, and daily life. Many women experience the following:
- Headaches
- Mood changes
- Depression
- Weight fluctuations
- Changes in appetite
- Increased facial and body hair growth
- Hair loss on the scalp
One of the most concerning side effects of Depo-Provera is the shot’s effect on bone health. Long-term use of this medication has been linked to decreased bone density and an increased risk of osteoporosis. This side effect is particularly pronounced in teenagers and young women.
Meningioma Development and Depo-Provera
In addition to the side effects listed above, recent research has unveiled a particularly alarming connection between Depo-Provera and meningioma development. A March 2024 study published in the British Medical Journey found that long-term Depo-Provera users have a risk of developing these brain tumors that is 5.6 times higher compared to non-users. This risk level surpasses that of any other studied birth control method.
Although meningiomas typically develop as non-cancerous tumors, they can still cause severe health effects. These growths can press against brain tissue, nerves, and blood vessels, which can cause devastating neurological symptoms. When meningiomas interfere with brain function, patients will need to get surgery to remove them—a serious procedure that carries its own risks and potential complications.
The findings of this study have prompted many medical professionals and legal experts to take a closer look at Depo-Provera. This medication has been widely used since the 1990s without any warnings about the risk of brain tumors. Now, many women are taking legal action by filing lawsuits against Pfizer, the manufacturer of Depo-Provera, for failing to warn patients and medical providers about these dangerous effects.
When to See a Doctor After Taking Depo-Provera
If you notice any unusual symptoms after taking Depo-Provera, seek medical attention right away. It is always best to seek professional help rather than allow potential complications or medical conditions to worsen. A doctor will assess your condition and develop a treatment plan to address these side effects and improve your comfort.
When it comes to meningioma, the tumors may not show symptoms right away and may mimic symptoms of other medical conditions. If you experience any of the following neurological symptoms, seek medical care right away:
- Sudden or unexplained seizures
- Persistent headaches that worsen over time
- Changes in vision, such as blurriness or double vision
- Hearing difficulties or ringing in the ears
- Problems with balance or coordination
- Unexplained weakness in arms or legs
- Memory problems or confusion
- Changes in speech
- Mood or personality changes
After seeking medical care, document every symptom, noting when they first appeared and how they progressed. Keep a detailed journal of your Depo-Provera usage history, including dates of injections and any side effects experienced. This documentation can be crucial for any future legal proceedings.
Filing a Depo-Provera Meningioma Lawsuit
If you developed meningioma after using Depo-Provera, you have the right to take legal action. Law firms across the country—including Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC—are investigating these cases and filing lawsuits on behalf of former patients. To qualify for a lawsuit, you typically must meet the following criteria:
- You used the brand-name Depo-Provera, Depo-SubQ Provera, or an authorized generic form of the medication, which is called medroxyprogesterone acetate.
- You received at least two documented injections of Depo-Provera.
- You have received a confirmed diagnosis of meningioma following your Depo-Provera use.
By filing a lawsuit, you can recover compensation to help pay for past and future medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, long-term care needs, and more. However, the statute of limitations in each state can affect your ability to file. These laws set a deadline on when you are allowed to initiate a Depo-Provera lawsuit, usually beginning on the date of your meningioma diagnosis. It is important to speak with an attorney right away to determine your eligibility and initiate your claim.
Contact Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC for a Free Consultation
Being diagnosed with meningioma can be a scary experience. If you believe that your Depo-Provera use contributed to the development of these tumors, this fear can be compounded by a deep sense of injustice. In these situations, you need an attorney on your side who can fight for your rights and help you pursue legal action against Pfizer.
Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC offers nationwide representation for women affected by Depo-Provera-related injuries. Our attorneys have represented victims of dangerous drugs for years and know what it takes to hold these large corporations accountable for their defective products. If you have been diagnosed with meningioma, we can help. Contact us today at (800) 220-0984 for a free consultation and begin planning your path to justice.