Case Overview
This document provides information for women who developed brain tumors after using Depo-Provera®. These lawsuits allege that Pfizer, Inc. failed to warn about the increased risk of intracranial meningiomas associated with the drug.
Depo-Provera is a progestin-based injectable contraceptive. It contains medroxyprogesterone acetate and is given every three months. The medication is also prescribed for endometriosis and uterine fibroids.
Allegations Against the Defendant
Plaintiffs claim the following:
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Failure to Warn – Pfizer did not include adequate warnings on U.S. product labels about the risk of meningiomas.
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Knowledge of Risk – Scientific literature dating back decades connected synthetic progesterone to tumor growth.
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International Discrepancy – Label changes warning about meningiomas were implemented in Europe, Canada, and South Africa, but not in the United States.
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Neglect of Safer Alternatives – Pfizer failed to promote lower-dose alternatives such as Depo-SubQ Provera 104.
Scientific Evidence
Multiple studies have established a link between long-term Depo-Provera use and meningiomas:
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2024 British Medical Journal Study – Found over five times greater risk of developing meningiomas after more than one year of use.
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2025 Follow-Up Study – Reported a 3.5 times greater risk compared to certain oral contraceptives.
These studies support claims that extended exposure to medroxyprogesterone acetate can stimulate tumor growth in the brain.
Symptoms Reported by Plaintiffs
Plaintiffs have experienced symptoms consistent with meningioma brain tumors, including:
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Persistent headaches
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Vision changes or loss
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Seizures
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Hearing impairment
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Weakness or numbness
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Cognitive decline
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Personality changes
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Loss of balance
Current Litigation Status
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Federal MDL – More than 550 Depo-Provera lawsuits have been consolidated into MDL No. 3140 in the Northern District of Florida.
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State Court Actions – Active litigation is also pending in New York, California, Delaware, and other states.
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Bellwether Trials – Early trials are expected in late 2026 to test the strength of claims and influence settlement discussions.
Potential Settlement Ranges
While no settlements have been reached, projections based on similar cases suggest:
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Tier 1 (Severe cases) – $650,000 to over $1.5 million
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Tier 2 (Moderate cases) – $300,000 to $650,000
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Tier 3 (Mild cases) – $150,000 to $300,000
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Tier 4 (Minimal cases) – Under $150,000
In similar meningioma lawsuits, average settlements exceeded $800,000, and trial verdicts often reached over $3 million.
Filing Requirements
To pursue a Depo-Provera lawsuit, plaintiffs generally must:
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Show proof of Depo-Provera or related injections for at least one year.
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Provide medical documentation of a meningioma diagnosis.
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Demonstrate treatment such as surgery or radiation, or a future treatment plan.
Statute of Limitations
Most states have a two- to three-year filing period from diagnosis. Some allow extensions under the discovery rule, starting when the plaintiff learns of the link between Depo-Provera and the tumor. Timely legal action is critical.
Legal Representation
These cases involve complex medical and legal issues. Plaintiffs are advised to retain law firms with experience in pharmaceutical litigation. Strong representation can improve the chances of securing full and fair compensation.
Conclusion
Women who developed meningiomas after Depo-Provera use may have a valid legal claim. Evidence suggests Pfizer failed to warn about known risks. The ongoing MDL and related state cases will determine liability and potential compensation.
