The Depo-Provera lawsuit side effects have gained attention as women who used the injectable birth control report serious health issues, including meningioma brain tumors and bone density loss. As of September 2025, more than 800 lawsuits are consolidated in a federal multidistrict litigation (MDL) overseen by Judge Casey Rodgers in Florida, alleging Pfizer failed to adequately warn about these risks despite evidence dating back years.
Clinton O. Middleton, Attorney at Law, PLLC, helps victims pursue justice against pharmaceutical companies for dangerous drugs. Contact us at (703) 777-9630 or through our contact form for a free case review to see if you qualify for compensation.
Depo-Provera and Its Potential Long-Term Side Effects
Depo-Provera, an injectable contraceptive containing medroxyprogesterone acetate, is administered every three months to prevent pregnancy by suppressing ovulation. While effective for many, prolonged use has been associated with significant health concerns. These Depo-Provera lawsuit side effects form the basis of ongoing litigation, with plaintiffs claiming inadequate labeling from Pfizer.
Common long-term side effects linked to Depo-Provera include:
- Meningioma brain tumors
- Reduced bone mineral density (osteoporosis risk)
- Persistent headaches or migraines
- Mood disorders like depression and anxiety
- Seizures
- Vision or hearing disturbances
Women using Depo-Provera for over a year face heightened risks, particularly for meningiomas, prompting calls for stronger warnings similar to those issued in Canada since 2016.
Meningioma Brain Tumors
Meningiomas, tumors on the brain or spinal cord's protective layers, are a primary focus in Depo-Provera lawsuits. A March 2024 BMJ study showed women using the shot for more than one year had over five times the risk of developing these tumors compared to non-users. Though often non-cancerous, meningiomas can cause severe symptoms such as:
- Severe, chronic headaches
- Dizziness or balance issues
- Personality or cognitive changes
- Seizures
- Vision impairment
Treatment may involve surgery, radiation, or monitoring, with recovery varying by tumor size and location. Pfizer's U.S. label omits this risk, unlike international versions, fueling claims of negligence.
Bone Density Loss and Osteoporosis
Depo-Provera's progestin suppresses estrogen, crucial for bone health, leading to significant density loss up to 5-7% in the first two years. This increases fracture risk and osteoporosis, especially in younger users whose bones are still forming. Factors like low calcium or vitamin D intake exacerbate the issue.
Past litigation, including a class action, resulted in over $2 million in settlements for failure to warn about this risk. Supplementation and monitoring are recommended, but long-term damage can persist post-discontinuation.
Headaches and Migraines
Hormonal fluctuations from Depo-Provera often trigger headaches, from tension types to intense migraines that disrupt daily life. These may stem from vascular changes or, in rare cases, signal an underlying meningioma. Persistent headaches warrant immediate medical evaluation, as they could indicate tumor growth.
Mood Changes and Mental Health Impacts
Many users report mood swings, heightened anxiety, or depression, potentially due to progestin's effects on brain chemistry. Untreated, these can strain relationships and productivity. Meningiomas may worsen symptoms by affecting emotional regulation areas, highlighting the need for prompt intervention.
Seizures and Neurological Risks
Seizures are a reported Depo-Provera lawsuit side effect, particularly in those with seizure histories, as the hormone may alter brain electrical activity. Symptoms like sudden convulsions or loss of awareness require urgent care and could tie to tumor development.
Risks of Ignoring Depo-Provera Side Effects
Untreated issues can escalate:
- Progressive bone weakening leading to fractures
- Tumor growth causing neurological deficits or emergencies like strokes
- Chronic mental health struggles
- Blood clots (fourfold risk per studies), potentially fatal
Early detection through screenings can mitigate harm, but many learned of risks too late due to labeling gaps.
Seek Compensation for Depo-Provera Side Effects
If Depo-Provera caused you harm, you deserve accountability. Our firm has extensive experience in drug injury cases, fighting for medical costs, lost income, pain, and suffering. With no upfront costs, we level the field against giants like Pfizer.
Call (703) 777-9630 or fill out our contact form today for a free consultation with Clinton O. Middleton, Attorney at Law, PLLC.
Depo-Provera Lawsuit Side Effects FAQs
What are the most serious Depo-Provera side effects?
Meningioma tumors (5x risk after one year) and bone density loss leading to osteoporosis top the list, alongside seizures and mood disorders.
Can Depo-Provera cause brain tumors?
Yes, prolonged use elevates meningioma risk, as confirmed by 2024 research; lawsuits claim Pfizer underreported this.
Is there a Depo-Provera class action lawsuit?
Over 800 cases form an MDL as of September 2025, not a traditional class action, allowing individual compensation pursuits.
Who qualifies for a Depo-Provera lawsuit?
Women using the shot for 1+ year with meningioma diagnosis or severe bone loss; family for wrongful death.
How long can you safely use Depo-Provera?
Pfizer advises no more than two years unless necessary, due to escalating risks like tumors and bone issues.
Does Depo-Provera have a black box warning?
Yes, for bone loss; meningioma warnings appear in Canada but not U.S. labels, central to lawsuits.
Can Depo-Provera cause weight gain or blood clots?
Weight gain affects many via metabolism shifts; clots risk is nearly four times higher, per National Library of Medicine data.
Does Depo-Provera increase breast cancer risk?
Studies suggest yes, especially with multi-year use, due to progestin's tumor-promoting effects.
Ready to explore your options? Learn more about the Depo Provera lawsuit. Contact Clinton O. Middleton, Attorney at Law, PLLC, at (703) 777-9630 or via our contact form for a free case review.
