For over thirty years, Depo-Provera has been a widely used injectable form of birth control in the United States. This progestin-based contraceptive offers effective pregnancy prevention and additional benefits, such as reducing menstrual pain and cramps, decreasing menstrual flow, and even stopping menstruation altogether. However, recent studies have raised serious concerns about its safety, particularly regarding its potential link to brain tumors.
Common and Serious Side Effects of Depo-Provera
Manufactured by Pfizer, Depo-Provera’s label includes warnings about various side effects. Common side effects primarily affect menstruation, including increased or decreased period flow, spotting, and skipped periods. Other reported side effects include bloating, headaches, nausea, depression, dizziness, weight gain, weakness, and fatigue.
One of the more serious risks associated with Depo-Provera is bone mineral density loss, potentially leading to osteoporosis. The FDA has issued warnings regarding this risk, emphasizing the importance of considering long-term effects when choosing this contraceptive.
The Link Between Depo-Provera and Brain Tumors
A growing body of research suggests that prolonged use of Depo-Provera may increase the risk of developing intracranial meningiomas, a type of brain tumor. A pivotal study published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) in March 2024 analyzed health data from 108,366 women. The study found that those who extensively used Depo-Provera or other high-dose progestin injections had a significantly higher likelihood of developing meningiomas. Among the study participants, over 18,000 required intracranial surgery to treat these tumors.
Further studies have reinforced these findings, indicating that women who used medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA)—the active ingredient in Depo-Provera—for more than a year faced a 3.55 times greater risk of developing meningiomas compared to those using oral contraceptives.
Following the BMJ study, European and U.K. health authorities required Pfizer to update warning labels to include the risk of meningiomas. However, the FDA has not yet mandated a similar warning for Depo-Provera in the U.S.
What Is a Meningioma?
Meningiomas account for nearly 30% of brain tumors. These tumors form in the meninges, the protective layers surrounding the brain and spinal cord. While they tend to grow slowly, symptoms can vary based on size and location. Common symptoms include:
- Weakness in the arms or legs
- Blurred vision
- Headaches and seizures
- Hearing loss or memory problems
- Balance issues
Treatment options for meningiomas range from regular monitoring with MRI scans to surgery, known as a craniotomy. Some cases require multiple surgeries or radiation therapy, and in severe cases, meningiomas can be fatal.
Depo-Provera Lawsuits Filed
The first lawsuit linking Depo-Provera to brain tumors was filed in October 2024. The plaintiff alleged that Pfizer failed to warn patients and doctors about the potential risk of developing meningiomas, despite evidence suggesting a link between high-dose progestin and tumor growth. Attorneys also claim that Depo-Provera has a defective design, noting that Pfizer produces a lower-dose alternative, indicating that a high dose of progestin is unnecessary for birth control.
As Depo-Provera lawsuits increased, the U.S. Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation consolidated the cases into a multidistrict litigation (MDL) in the Northern District of Florida in February 2025. As of March, 78 cases have been added, and legal experts anticipate that number to rise as more women come forward.
Making an Informed Decision About Birth Control and Possible Legal Options
Understanding the risks and side effects of any medication is crucial when making healthcare decisions. If you are considering Depo-Provera or have been using it, speak with your doctor about potential risks, including the latest research on meningiomas. No woman should have to choose between birth control and her long-term health.
If you or a loved one developed a brain tumor after using Depo-Provera, you may have legal options. At Childers, Schlueter & Smith, our dangerous drug lawyers specialize in holding pharmaceutical companies accountable for failing to warn consumers about dangerous side effects. Our experienced legal team is prepared to guide you through the complexities of a Depo-Provera lawsuit and fight for the compensation you deserve.
To learn more about how we can help protect your rights for Depo-Provera injuries, contact Childers, Schlueter & Smith at 1-800-641-0098 or visit us online to schedule a free case consultation.
At Childers, Schlueter & Smith, our attorneys are dedicated to helping victims of personal injury and/or those who have lost a loved one to wrongful death determine their legal options. We are a distinguished law firm that is driven by years of experience and exceptional results. If you or someone you know has been injured due to another’s negligence, please contact our firm to discuss your legal options.
