Depo-Provera, a contraceptive shot used by millions of women, was once seen as a convenient and effective form of birth control. Today, evidence suggests that prolonged use of the drug can lead to serious and, in some cases, irreversible health consequences.Â
From bone density loss and infertility to alarming reports of neurological disorders and brain tumors, the risks associated with Depo-Provera are prompting legal action.Â
If you or a loved one suffered harmful side effects after using this medication, the legal team at Bailey Cowan Heckaman PLLC is here to help you understand your options and pursue justice.
Contact us today for a free consultation.Â
What Is Depo-Provera and How Does It Work?
Depo-Provera is the brand name for medroxyprogesterone acetate, a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone. Administered via injection every three months, it works by preventing ovulation, thickening cervical mucus to block sperm, and thinning the uterine lining.Â
In addition to birth control, healthcare providers may prescribe Depo-Provera for medical conditions such as endometriosis, menstrual disorders, and to reduce the risk of endometrial cancer in high-risk patients.
While it is highly effective at preventing pregnancy, the drug is not without risks, especially when used long term.
The FDA warns against using Depo-Provera for more than two years due to potential bone density loss. Yet many women remain on the injection for far longer without proper monitoring or informed consent about the risks.
Why Are People Filing Depo-Provera Lawsuits?
Lawsuits allege that Depo-Provera’s manufacturer, Pfizer, failed to adequately warn patients and healthcare providers about the drug’s long-term dangers. Plaintiffs claim that they were not informed about the potential for:
- Severe bone thinning or osteoporosis
- Neurological issues, including brain tumors
- Permanent infertility
- Mood swings, depression, and other mental health effects
The central legal issue is failure to warn—a manufacturer’s duty to disclose known risks so patients can make informed decisions. Many victims report being blindsided by complications they never knew were possible.
Depo-Provera Side Effects Cited in Legal Claims
Although Depo-Provera has been on the market since the 1990s, the long-term effects are only now being fully understood. Women have come forward with a range of debilitating symptoms after extended use, including:
Osteoporosis and Bone LossÂ
One of the most documented risks. Many women have suffered fractures or been diagnosed with low bone density after using Depo-Provera beyond two years.
Brain Tumors and Neurological Symptoms
Some lawsuits cite rare brain tumors such as meningiomas and troubling neurological symptoms like chronic migraines and vision problems.
Menstrual Irregularities and Infertility
Prolonged amenorrhea (lack of menstruation), difficulty conceiving, or complete infertility have all been reported.
Emotional and Psychological DistressÂ
Mood swings, depression, and anxiety are common complaints associated with hormonal imbalance caused by Depo-Provera.
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Other long and short-term side effects caused by Depo-Provera:Â
Common side effects:
- Irregular or missed periods
- Weight gain
- Headaches or migraines
- Mood swings or depression
- Breast tenderness
- Decreased sexual desire
Less common but serious side effects:
- Delayed return to fertility after stopping injections
- Skin issues like acne or rashes
- Hair thinning or increased facial/body hair
Severe risks:
- Blood clots (e.g., deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism)
- Vision problems
- Liver dysfunction
- Severe mood changes or mental health issues
- A possible increased risk of certain cancers
Can Depo-Provera Cause Brain Tumors?
While research is ongoing, several case reports and lawsuits suggest a possible link between Depo-Provera and meningioma, a typically benign but potentially dangerous type of brain tumor. The concern arises from the hormone-sensitive nature of some tumors and the long-term exposure to synthetic progestin that Depo-Provera provides.
A recent study published in 2024 in the British Medical Journal highlighted a potential link between long-term use of contraceptives like Depo-Provera and a significantly increased risk of developing intracranial meningiomas. According to the research, women who used the drug for over a year were more than five times as likely to develop these brain tumors compared to those who had not used it.
Meningiomas are tumors that form in the meninges, the protective layers surrounding the brain and spinal cord. While they are generally benign, their size and location can cause serious neurological symptoms including:
- Persistent headaches
- Vision disturbances
- Seizures
- Cognitive or personality changes
In some cases, surgical removal is required, which carries its own risks. The tumors may also cause lasting neurological impairment.
Researchers believe the tumors’ growth may be influenced by progestins like MPA, which bind to progesterone receptors in meningioma cells and promote abnormal growth. Importantly, there have been cases where discontinuing Depo-Provera use led to stabilization—or even regression—of the tumors.
Am I Eligible to File a Depo-Provera Lawsuit?
You may be eligible to file a lawsuit if:
- You received Depo-Provera injections for birth control
- You experienced serious health complications such as bone density loss, brain tumor, infertility, or other lasting side effects
- You were not warned of these potential risks before starting the medication
Lawsuits against Pfizer and other Depo-Provera manufacturers claim the companies:
- Were aware, or should have been aware, of the increased risk of meningiomas and other complications
- Failed to adequately warn patients and medical providers about these risks
- Did not promptly update product labels to reflect new research
- Downplayed adverse event reports to protect profits
These legal complaints argue that the manufacturers placed financial gains above patient safety, exposing users to unnecessary harm. Many of the cases emphasize the lack of transparency regarding prolonged use risks—particularly for women who received regular injections over many years.
At Bailey Cowan Heckaman PLLC, we offer free consultations to help determine your eligibility. Our team will review your medical records, treatment timeline, and current condition to advise you on your legal options.Â
Call (713) 425-7100 today to speak with an attorney.
As of now, most Depo-Provera cases are being filed as individual product liability claims, but there is the potential for mass tort litigation or multidistrict litigation (MDL) depending on the volume and similarity of claims. Our attorneys stay up to date on developments that could affect how your case is filed and litigated.
What Compensation Could Be Available?
If your lawsuit is successful, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills (past and future)
- Lost wages and diminished earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability or infertility
- Punitive damages if the manufacturer’s conduct was especially negligent
Our team at Bailey Cowan Heckaman PLLC will fight for full and fair compensation that reflects the true impact Depo-Provera has had on your life.
Why Choose Bailey Cowan Heckaman PLLC?
At Bailey Cowan Heckaman PLLC, we are nationally recognized for our work in complex product liability and pharmaceutical litigation. We bring decades of experience and a client-focused approach to every case. When you work with us, you can expect:
- Personalized legal support
- Thorough investigation and case preparation
- Aggressive representation inside and outside the courtroom
- No fees unless we win your case
We have a proven record of success and are committed to helping victims of dangerous drugs get the justice they deserve.
Get a Free Case Review Today
If you believe Depo-Provera harmed your health, you don’t have to face this battle alone. Contact Bailey Cowan Heckaman PLLC today to speak with an experienced attorney and start your path toward justice. Your case evaluation is free and confidential.
