Is There a Lawsuit Against Depo Provera?
Is there a lawsuit against Depo Provera? The answer is yes. Women across the United States are filing lawsuits against Pfizer, the manufacturer of Depo-Provera, alleging that the contraceptive injection caused serious health issues, particularly meningioma brain tumors.
These lawsuits claim Pfizer failed to warn users about the risks, despite evidence linking long-term use to severe side effects.
Why Are Depo-Provera Lawsuits Being Filed?
Depo-Provera, a popular injectable contraceptive containing medroxyprogesterone acetate, has been linked to an increased risk of meningiomas, brain tumors that, while often noncancerous, can cause severe symptoms like headaches, seizures, and vision problems. A 2024 study published in The BMJ found that women using Depo-Provera for over a year face a 5.6-fold higher risk of developing meningiomas compared to non-users. Additional risks include bone density loss, autoimmune disorders, and fertility issues, which have prompted further legal action.
Plaintiffs argue that Pfizer:
- Knew or should have known about these risks but failed to update warning labels in the U.S.
- Promoted Depo-Provera as safe without disclosing potential dangers.
- Neglected to promote safer alternatives like Depo-SubQ Provera 104, a lower-dose option.
These allegations form the basis of claims for failure to warn, negligence, and design defects, with victims seeking compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and emotional distress.
Current Status of Depo-Provera Lawsuits (August 2025)
As of August 2025, the Depo-Provera litigation is rapidly expanding:
- Federal Multidistrict Litigation (MDL): Over 550 cases are consolidated in MDL No. 3140 in the Northern District of Florida, under Judge M. Casey Rodgers. The MDL streamlines pretrial proceedings for efficiency.
- State Court Filings: Lawsuits are active in states like New York (61 cases), California (11 cases), Pennsylvania, Illinois, Delaware, and New Mexico.
- Key Developments:
- A wrongful death lawsuit was filed in Texas in July 2025, alleging a fatal brain tumor linked to Depo-Provera use.
- A critical preemption hearing is scheduled for September 29, 2025, where Pfizer will argue that FDA approval shields them from state-law claims.
- Bellwether trials, which will test the strength of claims and guide potential settlements, are expected in late 2026 or early 2027.
The litigation is moving quickly, with strict deadlines for plaintiffs to submit proof of Depo-Provera use and meningioma diagnosis.
Health Risks Linked to Depo-Provera
The lawsuits highlight several health risks associated with Depo-Provera, supported by scientific studies:
- Meningioma Brain Tumors: Long-term use (over 12 months) significantly increases the risk of intracranial meningiomas, which may require surgery and cause lasting neurological damage.
- Bone Density Loss: Prolonged use can lead to osteoporosis and fractures, especially in younger women, due to reduced estrogen levels.
- Autoimmune Diseases: Some users report conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, though the connection is still under study.
- Fertility Issues: Extended use may delay conception or cause complications.
- Other Side Effects: Common complaints include severe headaches, weight gain, mood changes, and cardiovascular risks like blood clots.
If you’ve experienced these symptoms after using Depo-Provera, you may be eligible to join the ongoing litigation.
Potential Compensation in Depo-Provera Lawsuits
Compensation depends on the severity of your injuries and the case’s outcome. Potential damages include:
- Medical Expenses: Covering surgeries, radiation, or ongoing care for meningiomas or other conditions.
- Lost Wages: For time missed from work due to treatment or recovery.
- Pain and Suffering: For physical and emotional distress caused by health complications.
- Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence, to hold Pfizer accountable.
Estimated settlement ranges for meningioma cases are $50,000 to $500,000, with higher amounts (potentially over $1 million) for severe cases involving multiple surgeries or permanent damage. No settlements have been finalized as of August 2025, as the litigation is in the discovery phase.
Contact Clinton O. Middleton, Attorney at Law
If you or a loved one developed a meningioma or other serious health issues after using Depo-Provera, time is critical. Statutes of limitations vary by state (e.g., two years in Florida), so acting promptly is essential to protect your rights. Clinton O. Middleton, Attorney at Law, specializes in Depo-Provera lawsuits and is dedicated to helping victims seek justice.
Take the First Step Today:
Contact Clinton O. Middleton for a free, no-obligation case review. Call (703) 777-9630 or fill out our secure contact form to discuss your case and explore your legal options. Don’t wait! Let an experienced Depo-Provera lawyer fight for the compensation you deserve.
