Depo-Provera is a widely used contraceptive injection that has recently come under legal scrutiny.
Thousands of women across the United States rely on it to prevent pregnancy.
However, allegations suggest that the drug may increase the risk of brain tumors – particularly intracranial meningiomas.
Lawsuits claim that Pfizer – the drug’s manufacturer – failed to warn patients and doctors about the potential risks associated with Depo-Provera.
As more women report health complications – the legal battle continues to grow – with new lawsuits filed and the possibility of a consolidated legal process in the near future.
In this blog – we will provide an overview of the latest developments surrounding Depo Provera lawsuits and what you need to know.
What is Depo-Provera?
Depo-Provera is a birth control injection containing the hormone medroxyprogesterone acetate. Doctors administer it every three months to help prevent pregnancy. As a long-term contraceptive method, it is favored for its convenience and effectiveness.
While considered reliable for birth control, research has recently linked the drug to serious side effects, including brain tumors. As a result – Depo-Provera has faced increased scrutiny – with many questioning its long-term safety – especially when used for extended periods.
What is the Depo Provera lawsuit?
The Depo Shot lawsuit involves claims that Pfizer failed to warn consumers about the risk of developing brain tumors – especially meningiomas. These tumors may develop after using the contraceptive for long periods.
Legal filings suggest that Pfizer knew or should have known about these risks. However, the company did not properly inform doctors and patients. The lawsuits aim to hold Pfizer accountable for the health issues faced by many users. Plaintiffs are seeking compensation for – medical costs, emotional distress, and long-term injuries related to the drug.
Depo Provera lawsuit update – October 2024
Let’s take a look at the key updates on the Depo Shot lawsuits as of October and November 2024.
4 October 2024
Reports link Depo-Provera to the highest increase in cancer rates among commercially available drugs. Early studies show that Depo-Provera may increase the likelihood of developing tumors – including meningiomas – by up to five times compared to other drugs. This has heightened interest in lawsuits – with legal experts comparing it to other high-profile cancer-related lawsuits.
4 October 2024
A woman named Kristina Schmidt filed a lawsuit against Pfizer in the Northern District of California. Schmidt, who had been using Depo-Provera for 17 years, was diagnosed with an intracranial meningioma. Her case emphasizes that Pfizer knew or must have learned that Depo-Provera may be responsible for the development of brain tumors – despite long-term use.
11 October 2024
Legal battles over generic drug liability intensified. The central issue in the Depo Shot lawsuit is whether one can hold Pfizer responsible for brain tumors caused by generic versions of Depo-Provera. Although generic drugs are typically not accountable, Pfizer owns subsidiaries that manufacture these generics. This makes them potentially liable for the harm caused by these products.
17 October 2024
Evidence has emerged suggesting that Depo-Provera may also link to spinal cord tumors. While less common, some patients have been found with spinal meningiomas. And researchers are now focusing on the hormone exposure from Depo-Provera as a possible cause. A study in Neuro-Oncology Advances has further solidified this concern.
22 October 2024
In a new lawsuit filed in California Federal Court, Kristina Schmidt claims that years of using Depo-Provera caused her brain tumor. Schmidt’s lawsuit includes nine allegations against Pfizer and its co-defendants. It includes failure to warn, design defects, and fraudulent misrepresentation. These claims accuse the company of knowingly selling a dangerous drug without proper warnings.
25 October 2024
A woman in Indiana(Lesley Noble) filed a lawsuit against Pfizer. Noble had used Depo-Provera for 20 years before getting diagnosed with an intracranial meningioma in 2017. After invasive surgery and 36 rounds of radiation – her tumor aggressively regrew. Now, she is filing for a jury trial and seeking compensation for her medical expenses and emotional distress.
28 October 2024
Another Depo Provera lawsuit was filed in California (Monique Jones v. Pfizer et al.). This case follows the trend of lawsuits filed in states that accept innovator liability, holding manufacturers of original drugs like Pfizer accountable for generic versions of the drug. This concept is significant in the cases against Pfizer – especially for users of generic Depo-Provera.
29 October 2024
A new Depo Shot lawsuit was filed in California (Kathleen Fazio v. Pfizer et al.) in the Central District of California. The lawsuit highlights the growing number of cases against Pfizer. Legal experts expect these lawsuits to consolidate through multidistrict litigation (MDL). The filing suggests that a group of lawyers could soon handle the lawsuits under one federal judge to streamline the process.
1 November 2024
Anjanna Lawson filed a lawsuit in California after doctors diagnosed her with an intracranial meningioma following years of using Depo-Provera. Lawson started receiving the injections at age 16 and continued until September 2024. She had surgery to remove the tumor in 2023, but doctors found a residual tumor in early 2024.
Despite receiving radiation treatments – her tumor persists, causing her – vision loss, facial spasms, and a burning sensation. Lawson is seeking damages from Pfizer, Inc. and several other pharmaceutical companies involved in manufacturing the drug. This adds to the growing number of lawsuits linked to Depo-Provera.
What to do if you are affected?
If you have used Depo-Provera and received a brain tumor or other serious health diagnosis, it’s important to seek legal advice. You may be eligible for compensation for your – medical expenses, pain, and suffering.
A lawyer who specializes in product liability and pharmaceutical lawsuits can help you understand your rights. They can guide you on how to move forward with a claim. It’s essential to act quickly, as there are legal deadlines to file a case. Consulting an attorney will help you explore your options and protect your interests.
How to stay updated on the case?
To stay informed about the ongoing Depo Provera lawsuits – consider following news from trusted legal sources, law firm updates, and court filings related to the case. Many legal firms involved in the litigation will provide updates on new lawsuits, rulings, and other developments. You can also sign up for newsletters or alerts related to the Depo Shot lawsuits.
Conclusion
The legal situation with Depo-Provera is constantly changing. People are filing new lawsuits regularly. Women who have used the contraceptive and faced health issues, like brain tumors – are suing Pfizer. They claim the company failed to warn consumers about the risks.
As more women speak out, the case is growing larger. The courts could combine the Depo Shot lawsuits into one big case. If you think Depo Provera has affected your health – it’s important to take action. Consult with a lawyer to protect your rights and seek compensation for your suffering.
