What the Depo-Provera lawsuit is about
Depo-Provera is the brand name for medroxyprogesterone acetate, a hormonal birth control injection given once every three months. In March 2024, a study published in The BMJ found that long-term use of medroxyprogesterone acetate was associated with a significantly higher risk of meningioma, a usually benign tumor that grows in the tissues surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
A meningioma lawsuit is a personal injury claim filed by women who used Depo-Provera and were later diagnosed with a meningioma. These lawsuits allege that the manufacturer knew or should have known about the risk and failed to warn patients and doctors in time.
Who can file a Depo-Provera lawsuit
Eligibility is always confirmed by an independent law firm, but most women who qualify share the following facts:
- You received at least two Depo-Provera injections, or you used another medroxyprogesterone acetate birth control shot for a long time.
- You were diagnosed with a meningioma or a similar brain or spinal tumor after starting the injections.
- Your diagnosis required surgery, radiation, ongoing monitoring, or caused symptoms such as headaches, vision changes, seizures, or neurological problems.
- You are within the statute of limitations for your state. Because every state has different deadlines, it is important to check your dates as soon as possible.
You do not need to know the exact number of injections or the precise diagnosis date to start. A free case review can help you gather the right medical and pharmacy records.
Depo-Provera lawsuit update and timeline
The Depo-Provera lawsuit update landscape has moved quickly since the BMJ study. Here is what has happened so far:
BMJ study links Depo-Provera to meningioma
Researchers found that long-term medroxyprogesterone acetate use was associated with a roughly 5.6-fold increased risk of meningioma.
Lawsuits begin to be filed
Women across the United States filed individual lawsuits against Pfizer, the manufacturer of Depo-Provera, after being diagnosed with meningioma.
FDA approves updated warning label
The FDA required a new warning about the risk of intracranial meningioma on the Depo-Provera label.
Federal cases consolidated into MDL 3140
The Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation centralized federal Depo-Provera meningioma lawsuits in MDL 3140 before Judge Mark Walker in the Northern District of Florida.
The litigation is still in early stages. No global settlement has been announced, but the case count is growing and bellwether trials are expected to be scheduled in the future.
What compensation may cover
A successful Depo-Provera meningioma claim may seek compensation for:
- Past and future medical expenses, including surgery, radiation, and imaging.
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Punitive damages in cases where a jury finds the manufacturer acted recklessly.
How to start a claim
Starting a Depo-Provera lawsuit begins with a free case review. The process is straightforward:
- Answer a short questionnaire about your Depo-Provera use and diagnosis. It takes about 60 seconds.
- Speak with a case specialist who will ask follow-up questions and explain the next steps.
- An independent law firm reviews your claim and decides whether you may qualify to file a lawsuit.
- If you qualify, the firm works on contingency, so you pay no upfront legal fees.
Frequently asked questions
- Does a meningioma have to be cancerous to file a Depo-Provera lawsuit?
- No. Most meningiomas are benign, yet they can still cause serious symptoms, require surgery, and lead to permanent injury. The key issue is whether you were diagnosed with a meningioma after Depo-Provera use.
- What if I do not remember how many shots I received?
- Pharmacy and medical records often show the dates and number of injections. A case review can help you obtain these records.
- Is there a deadline to file a Depo-Provera lawsuit?
- Yes. Every state has a statute of limitations that limits how long you have to file. The deadline may be based on your diagnosis date, the date you discovered the link, or another event. Do not wait to check your eligibility.
- Will filing a lawsuit affect my privacy?
- Case reviews are confidential. If you decide to move forward, your lawyer will handle your medical records under strict privacy protections.
