Scientific research uncovered a disturbing connection between Pfizer's injectable birth control medication Depo Provera (medroxyprogesterone acetate) and an increased risk of developing brain tumors called meningiomas. A landmark 2024 study in the British Medical Journal found women using Depo-Provera for over one year were 5.55 times more likely to develop these potentially life-threatening tumors. The finding prompted women across the United States to file Depo Provera lawsuits seeking compensation for injuries they believe resulted from using this popular contraceptive. As of August 2025, over 550 Depo shot lawsuits have been consolidated in a federal multidistrict litigation (MDL) before Judge M. Casey Rodgers in the Northern District of Florida.
This litigation centers around allegations that Pfizer and other manufacturers failed to adequately warn patients and healthcare providers about the serious risks associated with Depo Provera, despite evidence suggesting they may have known about these dangers for years.
If you or a loved one developed a meningioma after using the Depo shot, the experienced legal team at Wisner Baum is available to help. We are dedicated to holding pharmaceutical companies accountable for their negligence and will provide a free and confidential case evaluation to help you understand your legal options.
Why Is There a Lawsuit for the Depo Shot?
The Depo-Provera lawsuits are based on the fact that Pfizer, the company that manufactures the Depo shot, did not provide warnings to patients that the birth control injection can lead to brain tumors. Lawsuits further allege the company knew about the risks for some time.
The allegations against Pfizer and other defendants assert several legal theories of liability. Understanding these claims helps clarify the legal basis for these lawsuits and what plaintiffs must prove to succeed in cases.
Failure to Warn
The primary claim in Depo Provera lawsuits is "failure to warn," which alleges that the manufacturers did not adequately inform patients and healthcare providers about the known risks associated with the product. This legal theory is based on the principle that drug manufacturers have a duty to warn consumers about all known risks associated with their products, especially serious side effects like brain tumors.
Based on scientific studies dating back decades, plaintiffs argue that Pfizer and other defendants knew or should have known about the link between Depo Provera and meningiomas. According to the complaints, the association between progesterone and meningioma has been known or knowable since at least 1983. Despite this knowledge, the manufacturers allegedly failed to include warnings about this risk on their U.S. product labels, depriving patients of the opportunity to make informed decisions about their contraceptive choices.
Strict Product Liability
Many lawsuits also include claims of strict product liability, which holds manufacturers accountable for injuries caused by defective products regardless of whether they were negligent. Under this theory, plaintiffs argue that Depo Provera is defective and unreasonably dangerous when used as intended due to its propensity to cause brain tumors.
The complaints allege that the design of Depo Provera, particularly its high dose of synthetic progestin (150 mg), makes it more dangerous than necessary for effective contraception.
Negligence
Negligence claims focus on the manufacturers' alleged failure to exercise reasonable care in the design, testing, and marketing of Depo Provera. Plaintiffs contend that the defendants breached their duty of care by not conducting adequate long-term studies on the safety of their product, despite early indications that it might increase the risk of meningiomas.
The lawsuits also allege negligence in the manufacturers' post-market surveillance practices, claiming they failed to properly monitor and respond to adverse event reports that might have indicated a connection between Depo Provera and brain tumors.
Fraudulent Concealment
Some lawsuits include claims of fraudulent concealment, alleging that the manufacturers deliberately withheld information about the risks of Depo Provera to protect their profits. These claims assert that the defendants had a duty to disclose the potential dangers of their product but instead chose to conceal this information from patients and healthcare providers.
The allegations of fraudulent concealment are particularly serious because they suggest intentional wrongdoing rather than mere negligence.
Understanding Depo-Provera and Its Risks
Depo Provera, commonly known as the "Depo shot," is a progestin-only injectable contraceptive that millions of women have used since receiving FDA approval in 1992. This birth control method involves receiving injections every three months, making it a convenient option for many women seeking long-term contraception.
The contraceptive works by suppressing ovulation, thickening cervical mucus to block sperm, and thinning the uterine lining to prevent implantation. In addition to its use as a contraceptive, the FDA approved DepoSubQ Provera 104 in 2004 as a treatment for endometriosis, expanding its applications beyond birth control. While these mechanisms effectively prevent pregnancy, emerging research suggests they may come with serious health consequences that many users were never warned about.
Is Depo Provera Dangerous?
The most alarming evidence comes from a 2024 study published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ), which analyzed over 18,000 women who underwent surgery for intracranial meningioma between 2009 and 2018. This comprehensive research revealed that prolonged use of Depo Provera resulted in a 555% increased risk of developing these brain tumors compared to non-users.
More specifically, the study found that users of the Depo shot were 5.55 times more likely to be diagnosed with meningiomas. This finding represents a significant health concern, especially considering that numerous studies published in previous decades reached similar conclusions, suggesting manufacturers may have been aware of this risk long before informing the public.
Other key findings include:
- A large-scale case-control study published in late 2024 analyzed over 117,000 meningioma cases in the U.S. and found a 53% increased risk of cerebral meningiomas specifically linked to injectable medroxyprogesterone acetate (Depo-Provera), with risk increasing further with prolonged use beyond one year.
- Another 2025 study from the University of British Columbia involving over 319,000 contraceptive users reported a 3.55-fold increased meningioma risk after more than one year of Depo-Provera use.
These more recent studies showed that the increased risk appears mainly with cerebral meningiomas, the tumors in the brain’s membranes, and emphasized a dose-response relationship where longer Depo-Provera use means higher risk.
What Are Meningiomas and Why Are They Dangerous?
Intracranial meningiomas are tumors that develop in the protective membranes (meninges) covering the brain and spinal cord. While these tumors are typically classified as "benign" or non-cancerous, their location inside the skull makes them potentially dangerous regardless of their cellular classification. As these tumors grow within the confined space of the skull, they can exert pressure on sensitive brain tissue, leading to serious and sometimes life-threatening complications.
Because meningiomas grow in the brain's membranes, their symptoms often mimic other common conditions but are potentially serious:
- Severe, persistent headaches that don’t respond to usual treatments
- Vision problems: Blurriness, double vision, or loss of vision
- Seizures: New onset or unusual seizure activity
- Muscle Weakness or Numbness: Particularly on one side of the body
- Speech Difficulties: Trouble speaking or understanding speech
- Personality or Cognitive Changes: Confusion, memory loss, or unusual behavioral changes
- Balance or Coordination Issues
In more advanced cases, cognitive impairment, memory loss, and even life-threatening complications may occur as the tumor continues to grow and press against vital brain structures. The seriousness of these symptoms underscores why proper warnings about the potential health risks are crucial for patients considering their contraceptive options.
If any of these symptoms occur, especially together or progressively worsening, medical evaluation with imaging (MRI or CT scan) is crucial to rule out meningiomas or other serious conditions.
Meningioma Treatment and Recovery
Treatment for meningiomas typically involves invasive procedures such as brain surgery (craniotomy), which requires removing part of the skull to access and remove the tumor. Following surgery, patients may require radiation therapy if the tumor cannot be removed entirely or if it recurs.
Recovery from these procedures is often lengthy and challenging, potentially involving extended rehabilitation periods, ongoing medication, and permanent lifestyle changes. Even after successful treatment, patients may continue to experience seizure disorders, neurological issues, anxiety, and depression, emphasizing the life-altering impact of these tumors.
Recognizing Symptoms Linked to Depo-Provera Use
Short-Term Side Effects
Even after a single shot, some people experience:
- Headaches or Migraines: New or worsening headaches after the shot can be common but should be monitored, especially if severe or persistent.
- Irregular Bleeding: Spotting or irregular periods are typical but watch for heavy or prolonged bleeding.
- Mood Swings: Fluctuations in mood, including irritability or depression, may occur.
- Weight Changes: Some experience weight gain or changes in appetite.
- Skin Changes: Acne or other skin issues can emerge.
- Decreased Libido: Some women notice a drop in sexual desire.
Long-Term Side Effects
The long term effects of the Depo shot may include:
- Persistent Migraines or Severe Headaches: If headaches worsen over time or are accompanied by vision changes or neurological symptoms, this warrants medical evaluation.
- Loss of Bone Density: Long-term use reduces bone mineral density, increasing fracture risk, even in young women. This risk can persist even after stopping.
- Increased Risk of Brain Tumors (Meningiomas): Research shows a significant increase in risk (up to 5.5 times) with prolonged use. Symptoms related to meningiomas should be taken seriously.
- Blood Clots: There is an increased risk of deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, especially in women with other risk factors.
- Menstrual Changes: Some experience long-lasting changes in menstrual cycles or suppression.
- Mood Disorders: Depression, anxiety, and other mood changes may persist or intensify.
- Breast Tenderness or Enlargement: Some notice physical breast changes.
- Fertility Issues: Difficulty conceiving after stopping can last up to two years or longer in some cases.
- Unexplained Fatigue or Neurological Symptoms: This could signal complications and should be promptly assessed.
Symptoms After Stopping Depo-Provera
Many women ask about the side effects of Depo-Provera after stopping:
- Delayed Return of Menstrual Cycles: It may take 6 to 18 months or longer for normal periods to resume.
- Lingering Headaches or Migraines: Some women find headaches persist after discontinuation.
- Bone Density Recovery: Bone loss may take time to reverse; ongoing risk of fractures can remain.
- Mood Changes: Depression or anxiety can continue or appear after stopping.
- Fertility Delays: Difficulty conceiving can persist, requiring patience and sometimes fertility support.
- Withdrawal Symptoms: Hot flashes, insomnia, night sweats, or mood swings may occur temporarily.
If you experience severe headaches, vision changes, weakness, or seizures after Depo, contact a doctor right away—these may be warning signs for brain tumors or other serious conditions.
Do I Qualify for a Depo Provera Lawsuit?
If you or a family member used Depo-Provera or an authorized generic version and subsequently developed a meningioma, you may be eligible to join the growing litigation against the manufacturers. Understanding whether you qualify for a Depo Provera lawsuit requires considering several important factors that can strengthen your potential claim.
Generally, individuals who may qualify for a Depo Provera lawsuit include those who received multiple Depo Provera injections over time and were later diagnosed with a meningioma.
Research indicates that prolonged use of the birth control shot is associated with a higher risk of developing these brain tumors, so claimants who have used the medication for an extended period may have stronger cases. However, each situation is unique, and evaluating the specific circumstances of your case requires professional legal assessment.
To have a viable claim, you should typically meet the following criteria:
- You received at least two injections of Depo-Provera or its generic version (medroxyprogesterone acetate) after 1992 when it received FDA approval for contraceptive use.
- You were subsequently diagnosed with a meningioma (either malignant or benign).
It's important to note that you may still have a valid claim even if you are uncertain whether your meningioma is directly related to your use of Depo Provera. The best way to determine whether you qualify is to contact an attorney at Wisner Baum and fill out our free case evaluation form. It will take you a few minutes to complete the evaluation, and a member of our legal team will follow up with you to discuss your options.
Who is Eligible for Depo-Provera Compensation?
It is natural for people to want to know whether they are eligible for compensation and what their case might be worth. However, the litigation involving Depo Provera is still in its early stages, making it premature to predict specific settlement amounts.
These lawsuits generally seek compensation for various types of damages experienced by affected individuals. Understanding the potential forms of compensation can help prospective claimants better understand what may be available in successful cases.
Compensatory damages typically form the foundation of recovery in cases like these. These damages aim to compensate plaintiffs for actual losses suffered and may include coverage for medical expenses, both past and future. Given the serious nature of meningiomas, affected individuals often incur substantial costs for diagnostic procedures, surgical interventions, radiation therapy, medication, and rehabilitation services. These medical expenses can quickly become overwhelming, making their recovery through litigation significant for many families.
Beyond medical costs, compensatory damages may also include lost wages and loss of earning capacity when brain tumors and their treatment prevent individuals from working or limit their ability to earn income at previous levels. The physical and emotional suffering associated with meningiomas and their treatment represents another significant category of damages, often referred to as "pain and suffering." This compensation acknowledges the physical pain, emotional distress, and overall decrease in quality of life that often accompanies these conditions.
In cases where the court finds the manufacturer's conduct particularly egregious, punitive damages may also be available. Unlike compensatory damages, which aim to make the plaintiff "whole" again, punitive damages are designed to punish wrongdoers and deter similar behavior in the future.
Depo-Provera Lawsuit Status – 2025 Update
Numerous lawsuits have been filed against Pfizer and other manufacturers, with many more expected in the coming months. These legal actions allege that defendant companies failed to adequately warn patients and healthcare providers about the risk of developing meningiomas, despite evidence suggesting they knew or should have known about these dangers.
As of August 2025, more than 550 Depo-Provera lawsuits—alleging that manufacturers failed to warn about long-term risks like brain tumors (meningiomas), blood clots, cancer, and bone loss—have been consolidated into multidistrict litigation (MDL) in the Northern District of Florida before Judge M. Casey Rodgers. The number of cases is expected to grow into the thousands as more women recognize serious, potentially disabling side effects linked to the birth control shot—side effects about which U.S. patients were not adequately warned, though stronger warnings appear on Depo labels in Europe and the UK.
State courts have also emerged as venues for Depo shot lawsuits with California, New York, Pennsylvania, and other state court cases pending.
If you’ve received multiple Depo-Provera injections (typically after 1992) and were later diagnosed with complications such as meningioma, bone loss, or unexplained blood clots, you may be eligible to join this growing national lawsuit.
What to Expect in a Depo-Provera Lawsuit
Once you have determined that you may have a viable claim, you may wonder what to expect in a Depo-Provera lawsuit. The legal process can seem complex, but understanding the general steps can help you feel more prepared.
- The journey typically begins with a case screening, where you will share your medical and medication history with an attorney. The legal team will then work to verify your eligibility and gather initial supporting records.
- Following the screening, your case moves into a thorough investigation phase. Your lawyer will meticulously collect essential documentation, including your medical records, prescription details, diagnostic imaging, and surgical reports. They may also consult with medical experts to strengthen your claim.
- If your case meets the qualifications, your attorney will proceed with filing a formal claim. This claim will either be filed as part of the ongoing multidistrict litigation (MDL) or as an individual case, depending on the specific circumstances. The legal foundation for these lawsuits is built on several key theories, most commonly "failure to warn," strict product liability, negligence, and sometimes fraudulent concealment, all of which allege that the manufacturers failed in their duty to protect patients.
- As the case progresses, the goal is to secure compensation for the damages you have suffered. While it's difficult to predict specific amounts, successful cases typically seek to recover both past and future medical bills, lost earnings, and compensation for pain and suffering and loss of quality of life. In cases of particularly egregious conduct by the manufacturer, punitive damages may also be sought to punish the wrongdoer.
It is important to remember that product liability cases, including Depo-Provera lawsuits, can take time. The typical timeline for resolution is 2 to 5 years, as the outcome depends on a variety of factors, including negotiations, a potential settlement, or a trial.
Taking the Next Steps in Your Depo Lawsuit
If you or someone in your family developed a meningioma after using Depo Provera or the Depo shot, it's important to take prompt action to preserve your legal rights. The first step is to contact an experienced attorney for a free and confidential consultation to evaluate whether you may have a valid claim. During this initial consultation, you'll have the opportunity to discuss your specific situation, including your history of Depo Provera use and subsequent medical diagnosis.
If you decide to move forward with a lawsuit, your attorney will guide you through the process of gathering relevant medical records and other evidence to support your claim. This documentation typically includes records of your Depo Provera prescriptions and administration, diagnostic imaging confirming your meningioma, surgical reports, and ongoing treatment records. These materials help establish both your use of the medication and the nature and extent of your injuries. Reach out to Wisner Baum to see if you qualify.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What symptoms should I watch for after using Depo-Provera long-term?
If you have used Depo-Provera, you should be vigilant for a range of symptoms, including persistent or worsening headaches, vision changes, hearing loss, seizures, muscle weakness, and unexplained cognitive issues. These can be warning signs of a brain tumor or other serious complications. You should contact a doctor immediately if you experience these or other severe neurological symptoms.
What if I was never officially diagnosed with a tumor but had unexplained neurological symptoms?
An official diagnosis is typically a requirement for a lawsuit, as it serves as the foundation of your claim. However, if you are experiencing unexplained neurological symptoms, you should seek medical attention right away. A thorough examination may lead to a diagnosis, which would then allow you to explore your legal options.
What kind of doctor should I talk to if I’m worried about a brain tumor?
If you have been diagnosed with a meningioma or are experiencing symptoms you believe may be related to Depo-Provera, it is best to consult with a neurologist. A neurologist can properly evaluate your symptoms, order necessary diagnostic tests like an MRI, and help you understand your medical options.
Can I file a claim if I used Depo-Provera years ago?
Yes. Many women who have filed lawsuits used Depo-Provera injections several years or even decades before their meningioma diagnosis. Because these tumors are often slow-growing, the symptoms may not appear until long after you have stopped using the medication. The key is to demonstrate a history of use and a subsequent diagnosis.
Is Depo-Provera still on the market?
Yes. Depo-Provera (medroxyprogesterone acetate) remains FDA-approved and available in the U.S. for birth control and some other uses. However, many major health agencies in Europe now require warnings about meningioma and bone loss, and lawsuits are urging similar disclosures here. You should consult with your healthcare provider to weigh the risks and benefits of continued use, especially if you have any symptoms or risk factors.
Has Depo-Provera been recalled in the U.S.?
As of late 2025, Depo-Provera has not been recalled by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, a growing number of lawsuits and new scientific research have led to stronger warnings in Europe and the UK, and litigation is ongoing to push for similar warnings in the United States.
How much could a Depo-Provera lawsuit be worth?
It is too early in the litigation process to predict specific settlement amounts for Depo-Provera lawsuits. The value of a case depends on many individual factors, including the severity of the injury, the extent of medical bills, lost income, and the overall impact on your quality of life. The purpose of these lawsuits is to seek fair compensation for the damages you have suffered.
