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The Depo-Provera lawsuits are legal claims filed by women who allege that use of the birth control shot caused them to develop intracranial meningiomas, a type of brain tumor. These lawsuits argue that the manufacturer, Pfizer, failed to properly warn patients and doctors about the potential risks. The cases have now been combined into a multidistrict litigation (MDL) to streamline the legal process and ensure consistent rulings.
Your Depo-Provera injury could mean you are eligible to file a lawsuit for compensation. Find out in a free phone consultation.
Depo Provera is a birth control shot that contains the hormone progestin. It is administered once every three months to prevent pregnancy. Although the product has been on the market for a while, safety concerns continue to mount.
Depo-Provera works by releasing progestin, a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone, into the body. This hormone prevents ovulation, meaning no egg is released for fertilization. Additionally, it thickens cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching an egg and alters the uterine lining to prevent implantation.
Some users of Depo-Provera experience side effects. Of greatest concern is the link of Depo-Provera to intracranial meningiomas. Understanding this risk is crucial for individuals considering Depo-Provera as a contraceptive method. It’s also why proper labeling is so important when it comes to pharmaceutical drugs.
Despite the known side effects, Depo-Provera remains a popular choice for birth control due to its ease of use. The shot is convenient for those who prefer not to take a daily pill or use other forms of contraception. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that around 25% of sexually active women have used Depo-Provera at some point in their lives.
One of the main allegations against Depo-Provera is its potential link to brain tumors, specifically meningiomas. Meningiomas are typically benign tumors that form on the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. These tumors are usually non-cancerous, but they can cause significant health problems, especially if they grow large or are located in sensitive areas.
Plaintiffs in the lawsuits claim that the drug’s manufacturer failed to adequately warn users about this serious risk.
Meningiomas can vary significantly in their behavior and impact. Some remain small and asymptomatic, while others grow to a size that exerts pressure on the brain or spinal cord, leading to neurological symptoms. The location of the tumor is also significant, as tumors near critical brain regions can lead to serious complications, even if they are not cancerous.
The legal actions against Depo-Provera makers are multi-faceted. Individual lawsuits claim the manufacturer did not provide sufficient warnings about the risks associated with the drug, leading to unexpected health issues. As a result, users claim they have suffered from medical problems that could have been avoided with proper disclosure.
In February 2025, the U.S. Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation centralized Depo-Provera brain-tumor lawsuits as MDL No. 3140 in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida, before Judge M. Casey Rodgers. The court began immediately coordinating pretrial steps for all federal cases in one forum.
Multidistrict Litigation (MDL) is a special legal process used in the United States when many people file lawsuits in different courts that involve the same issue—such as a dangerous drug, medical device, or product. Instead of handling each case separately in different courts, the cases are combined and sent to one federal court under a single judge.
This consolidation helps make the process faster and more efficient because the judge can oversee all the pretrial steps, such as gathering evidence and hearing common arguments. Each person’s case remains separate, but the shared parts are handled together. Once those steps are finished, individual cases can still go back to their home courts for trial if needed.
On March 16, 2025, the court-appointed plaintiff leadership in the Depo-Provera multidistrict litigation. Levin Papantonio attorney Virginia Buchanan was named Co-Chair of the Plaintiffs’ Executive Committee and to the Trial Subcommittee.
These appointments place the firm in a leading position to organize discovery, coordinate filings, and advocate for women nationwide who allege Depo-Provera caused meningiomas.
The lawsuits against Depo-Provera hinge on the assertion that its manufacturer did not fulfill its duty to warn consumers of the risks. In drug manufacturing, companies are legally required to disclose potential side effects and risks associated with their products. Plaintiffs claim that had they been informed of the potential for developing brain tumors, they might have chosen alternative contraceptive methods.
Court decisions from other litigations can factor into the outcome of Depo-Provera lawsuits. Previous cases involving similar allegations against other pharmaceutical companies can influence the strategies that both plaintiffs and defense attorneys use. Law firms with experience handling drug injury lawsuits will be well positioned to anticipate potential challenges and opportunities in the courtroom.
A plaintiff’s lawyer will investigate a potential client’s claim that Depo-Provera caused her meningioma. This effort involves gathering medical records, talking to experts, calculating damages, negotiating settlements, and representing their client in court if the matter goes to trial.
Legal counsel also plays an essential role in demystifying legal terms for plaintiffs. Attorneys specializing in pharmaceutical lawsuits can provide valuable guidance and support, ensuring that clients understand the implications of each legal term and how it relates to their case. This knowledge empowers individuals to participate actively in their legal proceedings.
Regulatory agencies, such as the FDA, play a key role in monitoring the safety of drugs like Depo- Provera. These agencies review scientific research and provide guidance on product labeling and warnings. Their assessments can influence the legal landscape by informing court decisions and shaping public perception of a drug’s safety.
You may be eligible to file a Depo-Provera lawsuit if the following apply to you:
1. You received at least two back-to-back injections of one of these products:
2. You were later diagnosed with meningioma (or possibly another type of benign brain tumor) after using Depo-Provera or Depo-SubQ Provera as described above.
If these criteria fit your situation, a drug injury attorney can review your medical history, evaluate your potential claim, and advise you on pursuing legal action against Pfizer, the manufacturer of Depo-Provera.
The question of whether Depo-Provera causes brain tumors is at the heart of these lawsuits. Some studies have suggested a potential link between progestin, the hormone in Depo-Provera, and the development of meningiomas.
Recent scientific studies have taken a closer look at whether long-term use of Depo-Provera (the contraceptive shot, also called depot medroxyprogesterone acetate or DMPA) may raise the risk of developing meningiomas. Here’s what has been found so far:
Anyone using Depo-Provera should be aware of potential symptoms. Common symptoms associated with brain tumors include headaches, vision problems, and unexplained changes in behavior or mood. If you experience any of these symptoms, consider seeking immediate medical advice.
Early detection of symptoms can significantly impact the prognosis of brain tumors. Users of Depo-Provera should monitor their health and report any unusual symptoms to their healthcare provider promptly. Early intervention can lead to more effective treatment and better health outcomes.
Regular medical check-ups are essential for women who are using Depo-Provera. These appointments provide opportunities for healthcare providers to assess any potential side effects and address patient concerns. Routine monitoring can also help detect symptoms early. This can facilitate timely medical intervention.
If you experience symptoms associated with brain tumors, it’s a good idea to seek a second opinion from a healthcare professional. Different specialists may offer varying perspectives on your condition, providing a more comprehensive understanding of potential health issues. This approach ensures you receive the most accurate diagnosis and appropriate care.
Pharmaceutical companies have a responsibility to ensure the safety of their products. This includes conducting thorough research and providing clear warnings about potential side effects. Plaintiffs in the Depo-Provera lawsuits argue that the drug’s manufacturer failed in this duty, leading to unnecessary harm.
The duty of care in drug manufacturing involves rigorous testing and transparent communication about a product’s risks. Companies must conduct extensive clinical trials to assess safety and efficacy. Failing to meet these standards can result in legal consequences and damage to a company’s reputation.
Marketing practices play a significant role in how pharmaceutical products are perceived by consumers. Companies must balance promoting their products with providing accurate information about potential risks. Misleading marketing can lead to legal challenges and erode public trust.
In the case of Depo-Provera, the drug makers allegedly failed to warn users of the risk of intracranial meningioma on U.S. drug labels.
Corporate accountability and ethics are central to the discussion of Depo-Provera lawsuits. Plaintiffs argue that the manufacturer prioritized profit over consumer safety, neglecting ethical standards. Upholding corporate responsibility is fundamental for maintaining public confidence in pharmaceutical products.
If you believe you have suffered adverse effects from Depo Provera, consider taking these steps:
Building a support network of friends, family, and other affected individuals can provide emotional and practical assistance. Connecting with others who have similar experiences can offer valuable insights and reduce feelings of isolation. Support groups and online forums can be excellent resources for sharing information and advice.
Keep detailed records of your health symptoms, medical appointments, and communications with healthcare providers. This documentation can serve as evidence in legal proceedings and help your attorney build a strong case. Accurate records also ensure that you receive appropriate medical care and follow-up.
Stay vigilant about any new symptoms or changes in your health. Regularly updating your healthcare provider about any concerns and adhering to medical advice can help prevent complications. Being proactive in your health management ensures that you are well-informed and prepared to address any issues that arise.
The Depo-Provera lawsuit landscape is a complex and ongoing issue. Allegations of a link between the birth control shot and brain tumors are serious. For those affected, understanding the legal landscape and knowing your rights is essential.
As the lawsuits progress, Depo-Provera users should try to stay informed and seek both medical and legal developments if they have concerns. With the right information and support, those impacted by Depo-Provera can navigate this challenging situation and seek the justice they deserve.
The path forward for those affected by Depo-Provera involves a combination of legal action, medical monitoring, and community support. Users of this birth control shot should stay informed about new developments in the lawsuits and scientific research. Advocacy efforts can also play a role in raising awareness and prompting regulatory changes.
Advocacy is a powerful tool for driving change and holding pharmaceutical companies accountable. By raising public awareness and pushing for legislative action, advocacy groups can influence policy decisions and improve safety standards. Individuals affected by Depo-Provera can join these efforts to amplify their voices and seek justice.
Ultimately, the goal for those involved in the Depo Provera lawsuits is to achieve justice and resolution. This may involve financial compensation, changes in drug labeling, or policy reforms. By actively participating in the legal process and advocating for change, affected individuals can contribute to a safer and more transparent pharmaceutical industry.
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