A popular injectable birth control, Depo-Provera (medroxyprogesterone acetate) — also sold as Depo-SubQ Provera 104 — has long been favored for its 99% effectiveness and ease of use compared to daily pills. However, recent research has raised alarming concerns about potential health risks, prompting a wave of lawsuits against its manufacturer, Pfizer.
Alarming Link Between Depo-Provera and Brain Tumors
Although Depo-Provera has been on the market for contraceptive use since the 1990s, new evidence suggests a strong association between Depo-Provera and meningiomas — brain tumors that can lead to serious neurological issues.
A March 2024 study published in The British Medical Journal revealed that long-term users of Depo-Provera are 5.6 times more likely to develop meningiomas. While typically benign, these tumors may cause debilitating symptoms such as chronic headaches, vision problems, seizures, numbness or weakness in the limbs, and can require surgery.
In response to the March 2024 study, Pfizer announced to The Guardian that it is working with health regulators to update product labels and patient information to reflect these emerging risks.
Legal Action: Multidistrict Litigation (MDL) Targets Pfizer
Pfizer is now facing a growing number of lawsuits across the country alleging the company failed to adequately warn consumers about the risks associated with the use of Depo-Provera. The cases have been consolidated into a Multidistrict Litigation Case (MDL) in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Florida (MDL No. 3140).
Attorney Sara Watkins of Robert Peirce & Associates has been appointed to the Class Action Committee of this MDL. According to Watkins:
“The Class Action Committee of the Depo-Provera MDL aims to establish a medical monitoring program for women who used Depo-Provera and now face an increased risk of meningiomas, even if they have not been diagnosed yet.”
Attorney Aaron Rihn, a nationally recognized leader in class action and mass tort litigation, has been named Pennsylvania Liaison for the MDL. Rihn, who has helped recover over $50 million for clients, will play a key role in coordinating proceedings between Pennsylvania state court cases and the federal MDL.
Who May Qualify for Legal Compensation?
Individuals may be eligible to join the lawsuit if they meet the following criteria:
• Used brand-name Depo-Provera or Depo-SubQ Provera 104
• Were diagnosed with an intracranial meningioma
• Used Depo-Provera for at least six months prior to diagnosis
Legal Help from a Trusted Team
For over 40 years, Robert Peirce & Associates has been committed to fighting for those harmed by dangerous drugs and corporate negligence.
If you or a loved one has suffered due to Depo-Provera, contact Attorneys Sara Watkins or Aaron Rihn at 412-281-7229 or visit peircelaw.com for compassionate, expert legal support.
