The Link Between Depo-Provera and Meningioma Brain Tumors: What You Need to Know

Depo-Provera is a popular injectable form of birth control used by millions of women. Recent studies indicate that the use of this form of contraceptive can lead to an increased risk of meningioma brain tumors. Women who have used Depo-Provera in the past or are currently using it should familiarize themselves with the risks and signs of this condition. If you suffered from a meningioma following the use of Depo-Provera, you should speak to an attorney about whether you might have a claim for damages.

What is Depo-Provera?

Depo-Provera is a form of birth control which is administered as a shot. Women who use Depo-Provera only need to receive the injection once every three months. For many women, this makes Depo-Provera more convenient. Clinics still administer Depo-Provera, and women around the US continue to use it as birth control. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 25% of women who have been or are sexually active have used this form of birth control at some point in their lives.

What are meningiomas?

A meningioma is a tumor that forms in the meninges (the protective layers around the brain and spinal cord). Most meningiomas are non-cancerous, but depending on where they form and how large they are, they can lead to severe complications. John Hopkins Medicine reports that about one in every three brain tumors is a meningioma.

This type of tumor appears more often in women and is more likely to be diagnosed after the age of 40. Studies suggest that about 1% of the total population has these tumors, although many are asymptomatic. Prevalence of the tumors rises with age.

The connection between Depo-Provera and meningiomas

Studies identified a connection between the long-term use of Depo-Provera (more than one year) and a significant increase in the risk of intracranial meningiomas. In fact, it may cause as much as a 5.6-fold increase in the risk of a person developing this condition.

It’s possible that the reason for the increased risk is that these tumors have progesterone receptors, which suggests that synthetic progesterone (which is in Depo-Provera) could be fueling their growth. Depo-Provera might be leading to the formation of these tumors or accelerating the growth of existing ones.

How many women could be affected?

Assuming that even a small percentage of women who used Depo-Provera long-term develop these tumors, thousands of women could be impacted. The symptoms of meningiomas can be severe and include headaches, memory loss, vision problems, seizures, and neurological impairments. Diagnosis of meningiomas may involve physical and neurological exams, MRIs, or CT scans.

The possible treatments for this condition include brain surgery and radiation, both of which come with high medical costs and potential future health complications.

Can you take legal action?

Drug manufacturers are responsible for making their products safe for use and for providing proper warnings if a drug comes with potential risks. Many women who were prescribed this form of birth control did not receive adequate warnings about possible health complications.

Women who used Depo-Provera should seek legal representation if they experienced:

• The diagnosis of a meningioma
• Required surgery because of a meningioma
• Serious health consequences because of meningiomas

A successful claim can help you by covering related medical expenses, lost income because you were unable to work due to this condition, and compensation for your pain and suffering.

What to do if you were affected

If you used or are using Depo-Provera, be aware of the symptoms of meningiomas. If you experience frequent headaches, vision loss, or seizures, seek medical attention to determine if you have a meningioma. Be sure to document your past use of Depo-Provera, as well as your medical history and symptoms.

If you’ve been diagnosed with a meningioma, contact an attorney to learn more about your legal options to pursue action against the manufacturer. Pharmaceutical companies need to be held accountable when they create dangerous drugs.

Contact McGowan, Hood, Felder, and Phillips, LLC

Meningiomas are a serious condition that can significantly impact your life. If you’ve suffered from this type of brain tumor and believe it might be related to your use of Depo-Provera, you need to learn more about your options for holding the manufacturer accountable. At McGowan, Hood, Felder, and Phillips, LLC, our attorneys are ready to answer your questions. Call us or fill out our contact form today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced medical product liability attorneys.