Depo-Provera is a progestin-based birth control administered in the form of a shot every three months. Patients who take Depo-Provera can experience side effects, some of which are severe or life-altering. Recent studies have connected this medication to a type of brain tumor called meningioma.
If you were diagnosed with a meningioma after using Depo-Provera for more than a year, you may have grounds to sue the manufacturer. Trantolo & Trantolo, LLC’s Depo-Provera lawsuit lawyers have the knowledge and resources to help you file a claim and recover damages. Contact us today for a free consultation with one of our mass torts attorneys to learn more about your legal options.
What is Depo-Provera?
Depo-Provera is the brand name for medroxyprogesterone acetate, a contraceptive medication designed by Pfizer, Inc. The product uses a synthetic version of progesterone called progestin to thicken mucous in the cervix and delay ovulation. Patients using Depo receive injections every twelve weeks to prevent pregnancy.
Depo-Provera Side Effects
According to Mayo Clinic, Depo-Provera patients can experience side effects that vary in intensity and severity. Notable side effects include:
- Irregular periods or heavy bleeding
- Abdominal pain and bloating
- Depression and anxiety
- Reduced libido
- Dizziness and headaches
- Weakness and fatigue
- Reduced bone density and osteoporosis
Depo-Provera and Meningioma
A French study published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) in March 2024 linked progestogens like progestin to intracranial meningiomas. An intracranial meningioma is a slow-growing, typically benign tumor that grows in the lining between the skull and the brain. As it grows, the tumor can place pressure on nearby brain tissue, which can cause a range of symptoms and complications.
Extended use of Depo-Provera greater than one year is associated with meningiomas in women. Progestin, a primary hormonal component of Depo-Provera, is the synthetic version of progesterone. Progesterone receptors are typically present in meningiomas. When exposed to progesterone, meningiomas grow. When progesterone is reduced, discontinued, or inhibited, the brain tumors shrink.
This link between Depo-Provera and meningiomas is strong enough that patients diagnosed with Depo-related brain tumors are suing Pfizer for compensation.
What Are the Signs of a Meningioma From Depo-Provera?
A meningioma can grow for years without detection. Patients may need costly surgery or radiation therapy to reduce or remove the tumor. Even with treatment, meningioma patients can suffer a variety of symptoms that affect their quality of life.
Signs of a brain tumor caused by Depo-Provera vary depending on the part of the brain affected. A growing meningioma may present the following symptoms, according to Mayo Clinic:
- Blurred vision or vision loss
- Double-vision
- Hearing loss
- Memory loss and speech problems
- Limb weakness and shakiness
- Loss of smell or taste
- Seizures or convulsions
Even with benign tumors, the patient may still need to undergo surgery or radiation therapy similar to treatment for malignant tumors. The treatment can be expensive, uncomfortable, and time-consuming. You may miss work or be unable to do activities you once enjoyed.
A Depo-Provera lawsuit can help you recover lost income, medical bills, and other losses related to your meningioma diagnosis. Speak with a mass tort attorney to learn more.
Why Are People Suing Pfizer, Inc. Over Depo-Provera Shots?
Some people who suffered meningiomas due to Depo-Provera use are suing the manufacturer, Pfizer, Inc. and other parties for damages. The lawsuits allege that Pfizer was aware that their product was likely to increase the risk of meningiomas in women.
Pharmaceutical manufacturers have a duty to warn users of any known risks associated with their products. The lawsuits argue that Pfizer knew or should reasonably have known that their Depo-Provera shot increased the risk of meningiomas in women.
By failing to adequately warn users, Pfizer negligently and willfully placed consumers at risk. For this reason, Pfizer could be liable for damages incurred by patients who used Depo-Provera for an extended period of time and later developed meningiomas.
Legal Action Begins Against Depo-Provera Defendants
The first Depo-Provera lawsuit was filed October 1st, 2024, by a California woman, Kristina Schmidt. Ms. Schmidt’s case was filed in United States District Court, Northern District Of California against multiple defendants, including Pfizer. Ms. Schmidt received injections of the medication from 2005 to 2021. In 2022, she was diagnosed with intracranial meningioma and had brain surgery to remove the mass.
The victim claims that the defendants did not warn American users about the potential risks of using Depo-Provera and its authorized generic versions. The lawsuit outlines that while drug labels in the European Union and the United Kingdom mention the risks of meningiomas, American drug warnings omitted this information.
While a French study in 2024 made Ms. Schmidt aware of the link between the tumor and her use of Depo-Provera, previous studies have shown researchers the link between the medication and the development of meningiomas.
In November 2024, Ms. Schmidt and other injured parties moved to consolidate multiple lawsuits into a multi-district litigation. In late December 2024, the defendants, including Pfizer, requested that the case move from California to New York. A hearing is scheduled for January 30th, 2025, to determine if this case will change jurisdictions and be consolidated.
What Damages Can I Recover in a Depo-Provera Lawsuit?
Detecting and treating meningiomas can take months or even years. Some meningiomas are untreatable due to their location, leaving the victim with negative neurological issues for the rest of their lives.
We understand that the effects of a meningioma on your daily life are unique and personal. A mass torts claim against Pfizer lets you seek damages for the specific losses you suffered. Our Depo-Provera lawsuit attorneys can help you pursue full damages, including:
- Current and future medical bills for your meningioma diagnosis and treatment
- Lost wages, benefits, salary, bonuses, commissions, and other income
- Diminished future income if your meningioma causes impairment
- Pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other non-economic damages
Trantolo & Trantolo, LLC’s personal injury lawyers have extensive experience recovering compensation for victims of defective products. We are passionate about seeking justice for injured people and holding negligent companies accountable. No matter how complex your case is, our legal team has the knowledge and resources to pursue fair compensation on your behalf.
How Can a Depo-Provera Lawsuit Lawyer Help With My Claim?
When you are coping with a meningioma diagnosis and treatment, a lawsuit may feel like too much to deal with. Trantolo & Trantolo, LLC’s attorneys handle the legal work, so you can focus on healing.
When you hire Trantolo & Trantolo, LLC, we assign a dedicated team to your case. Your team handles every aspect of your case, including:
Gathering Evidence and Building a Strong Claim
We gather medical records, treatment plans, and other information to show that you used Depo-Provera for an extended period of time, greater than one year. In addition, we request your diagnostic imaging and test results to prove the existence and effects of your meningioma.
Our team also reviews in-depth research to ensure your condition meets the requirements for filing a Depo-Provera lawsuit. To substantiate your losses, we obtain copies of your medical bills, receipts, financial statements, and other documentation.
Filing a Lawsuit Against Depo-Provera’s Manufacturer
Once we gather the evidence to prove your meningioma was caused by Depo-Provera use, a lawsuit is filed on your behalf. Although the litigation surrounding Depo-Provera has only just begun and is limited to a few plaintiffs, the French study published in BMJ suggests there could be many more people affected by this medication.
If there are enough cases against Pfizer for Depo-Provera brain tumors, they may be consolidated into multi-district litigation in one specific district. At this time, cases are still being filed individually.
Your team will keep an eye on existing cases and advise you of new developments as they arise. As your case progresses, we will keep you informed and explain the legal process.
Fighting for a Fair Settlement
While Pfizer may settle some claims to avoid lawsuits, they appear to be taking many cases to trial at this time. A Depo-Provera lawsuit lawyer is comfortable at the negotiating table and in the courtroom. You can rest easy knowing we are defending your legal rights on every front. We will NOT settle for less than you deserve for your losses.
Handling All Legal Communication
While you focus on your treatment and recovery, we can field phone calls, emails, and legal correspondence from opposing counsel, court clerks, and insurance carriers. We answer questions, respond to document requests, file motions, and attend hearings and negotiations on your behalf.
Representing You During Court Proceedings
You deserve personalized representation and fair compensation from attorneys who care about you. Trantolo & Trantolo, LLC’s injury lawyers are here to provide the support you need during every step of the legal process.
You can expect us to be there to support you during hearings, testimony, and cross-examinations. We will not back down, and we will not hesitate to pursue your case at trial if it means securing a fair settlement or verdict for your losses.
How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Lawyer to Handle a Depo-Provera Case?
Trantolo & Trantolo, LLC’s Depo-Provera attorneys offer free consultations and representation on a contingency fee basis. Your initial consultation allows us to review your documentation and hear your story. We then provide an honest assessment of your legal options. You are under no obligation to file a claim or hire us – the meeting is for informational purposes only.
If we decide to work together, we will handle all the legal work and associated costs for litigation. You pay us nothing upfront for our services. When we win your case, we receive payment as a portion of your final settlement or award. That means we don’t get paid if we don’t win.
Why Work With Trantolo & Trantolo, LLC’s Depo-Provera Lawsuit Attorneys?
Trantolo & Trantolo, LLC is a family-founded law firm dedicated to helping injured people seek justice and fair compensation. We have spent more than 85 years fighting for injured people, and we want to use our extensive experience to help you.
Our Attorneys Get Results
Since 1938, Trantolo & Trantolo, LLC has been dedicated to getting the best results for our clients. Our goal is to help people receive compensation for their medical care, lost income, pain and suffering, and other losses. Our dedication has allowed us to recover millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for our clients.
Our Clients Value Our Dedication
At Trantolo & Trantolo, LLC, the client comes first. We treat every client like part of our family and approach each case with the attention and personalized support it deserves. We know how stressful a brain tumor can be for you and your loved ones, and we are here to fight for you in court and during negotiations. See our Testimonials page for reviews from our satisfied clients.
How Long Do I Have to File a Depo-Provera Lawsuit?
Every state has different statutes of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit. Our personal injury lawyers are well-versed in the laws and regulations governing product defects and dangerous drug claims. Let us help you navigate the process so you don’t miss important filing deadlines.
Who is Eligible to File a Depo-Provera Lawsuit?
To file a Depo-Provera lawsuit, you must have taken Depo-Provera shots for an extended period of time greater than one year. You must also have a documented diagnosis of a meningioma in your brain or spine.
Our team can review your medical records and obtain the necessary evidence to support your case. If you aren’t sure whether you qualify, contact one of our Depo-Provera lawsuit attorneys for a free consultation. We will review the details of your case and let you know if you have grounds to sue Pfizer for damages related to your Depo use.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Depo-Provera Settlement?
Settlement time frames for drug defect lawsuits can range from a few months to several years. The amount of time it takes depends on several factors, including:
- How strong your case against Pfizer is
- The severity of your injuries and losses
- Whether similar cases have already settled
- Whether Pfizer decides to settle out of court or go to trial
Cases can settle at any point during the trial process. Some companies move forward with the trial process but settle once they have the chance to review all the evidence. Others fight the case until the judge or jury renders a final verdict.
Our legal team is prepared to take your case to trial and defend your legal rights before a judge and jury, no matter how aggressive or stubborn the company is.
Contact a Depo-Provera Attorney Today for a Free Case Review
If you or someone you love suffered a meningioma brain tumor after taking Depo-Provera for more than a year, you could secure compensation through a lawsuit against Pfizer, the product’s manufacturer. Many personal injury claims have been filed against the drug manufacturer. More cases could mean consolidation into multi-district litigation, also called a mass tort claim. Filing a lawsuit right away gets the legal process started and adds your lawsuit to the growing list of claims against Pfizer.
We can help you understand the filing process and what may happen if your case is consolidated into an MDL. Our dedicated Depo-Provera lawsuit lawyers can manage your case from beginning to end, whether we proceed with an independent personal injury claim or an MDL. Let us leverage our knowledge, experience, and reputation to help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Contact our office as soon as possible to discuss your legal options during a free consultation.