Our team of attorneys is currently investigating claims involving the use of Depo-Provera contraceptive injections related to increased rates of the development of meningioma, a type of tumor that develops in the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
What is Depo-Provera?
Depo-Provera is a prescription contraceptive used to prevent pregnancy. It is the brand name for depot-medroxyprogesterone acetate, originally developed and patented by Pfizer. Depo-Provera is an injectable form of contraception, administered every three months. It was first approved for use as a contraceptive in the United States in 1992 by the FDA. Studies have shown that Depo-Provera use in the United States has historically been highest among women between the ages of 15-24, by Black women, and by women with a high school education or less.
Depo-Provera and Meningioma
In March 2024, a scientific study was published in the British Medical Journal, a well-respected academic publication, which found a clear link between the use of Depo-Provera and the development of a specific type of tumor called a meningioma. Meningiomas are the most common type of brain tumor, accounting for 40% of all reported tumors in the brain. Fortunately, most meningiomas are non-cancerous, but roughly 2% are diagnosed as cancerous. The study found that women who used Depo-Provera were more than 5 times more likely to be diagnosed with meningioma compared to women who never used that contraceptive.
Meningiomas are usually slow-growing tumors and may exist in the brain for many years without symptoms before being diagnosed. Meningiomas are categorized into three different grades:
- Grade I: A totally non-cancerous meningioma that grows very slowly, accounting for approximately 80% of meningioma cases.
- Grade II: Non-cancerous but more rapidly growing, making treatment more difficult. They are more likely to return following removal than Grade I cases.
- Grade III: Malignant (cancerous) tumors that grow fast and aggressively, comprising less than 2% of cases.
According to the Mayo Clinic, Symptoms of a meningioma most often begin slowly. They may be hard to notice at first. Symptoms may depend on where in the brain the meningioma is, and may include:
- Changes in vision, such as seeing double or blurring.
- Headaches that are worse in the morning.
- Hearing loss or ringing in the ears.
- Memory loss.
- Loss of smell.
- Seizures.
- Weakness in the arms or legs.
- Trouble speaking.
Meningiomas can only be confirmed by way of diagnostic testing, which can include imaging such as a CT or MRI scan, a tumor biopsy, or a combination of methods. When caught early, meningiomas are often quite treatable. Treatment methods can include surgery, radiation therapy, and/or chemotherapy, each of which come with unique risks and challenges.
What Compensation May Be Recoverable in a Depo-Provera Lawsuit?
If you developed a meningioma following extended (longer than one year) use of Depo-Provera, you may be eligible to participate in a lawsuit against the corporations responsible for the manufacturing and selling of Depo-Provera.
If you hire ASK LLP, we may seek the following damages for you:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Past and future pain and suffering
- Past and future mental anguish
- Past and future loss of enjoyment of life
- Punitive damages, if justified
Why Choose ASK LLP for your Depo-Provera Lawsuit?
ASK LLP is a nationally-recognized law firm with more than three decades of combined legal experience in complex litigation. Our team is well-versed in the intricacies of litigation and has the knowledge to handle your Depo-Provera lawsuit effectively. Our approach is tailored, compassionate, and persistent. We make sure that each case gets the attention and time it deserves. Call ASK, LLP at (877) RING ASK (877-746-4275) for a free case evaluation.