Depo-Provera Shot Lawsuits

Depo-Provera (known in scientific terms as medroxyprogesterone acetate) is an injectable contraceptive that contains the hormone progestin. Individuals typically get this shot once every three months to suppress ovulation and prevent ovarian egg release. This medication also thickens cervical mucus to keep sperm from fertilizing an egg.

Though this medication has been around for many years, newly released scientific data shows that Depo-Provera can cause brain tumors.

Depo-Provera Shot Lawsuits

What Is Depo-Provera and How Does It Work?

Depo-Provera is an injectable form of birth control that suppresses ovulation and thickens cervical mucus, preventing sperm from fertilizing an egg. Unlike daily or monthly birth control methods, Depo-Provera is administered once every three months, making it an easier option for those seeking a low-maintenance method. The shot is typically given in the upper arm or buttocks and provides effective birth control for about 13 weeks.

The contraceptive benefits of Depo-Provera have made it widely used. However, along with its effectiveness, the shot has also been linked to significant risks. Understanding these risks is essential for those using or considering Depo-Provera, especially as more research sheds light on possible side effects and the legal actions surrounding these effects.

Common Side Effects of Depo-Provera

Like all medications, Depo-Provera has a list of common side effects that users should be aware of. Some of these side effects are manageable and may subside over time, but others can be more severe and long-lasting. Common side effects of Depo-Provera include:

  • Changes in menstrual cycles. Many users experience irregular bleeding, which may become less frequent over time. Some users may stop menstruating altogether while on the shot, which can be normal for this contraceptive but may concern some individuals.
  • Weight gain. Studies have shown that weight gain is a common side effect, with some users gaining several pounds during the first year of use.
  • Headaches. Some users report frequent headaches or migraines as a side effect, which may be more intense in those prone to migraines.
  • Bone density loss. Long-term use of Depo-Provera has been associated with a decrease in bone mineral density, increasing the risk of fractures and osteoporosis, especially when used for extended periods​.

While these side effects are relatively common, recent research has highlighted more severe risks that were previously less understood, leading to increased concern among medical professionals and users alike.

Severe Risks and Brain Tumor Concerns

In addition to more common side effects, recent studies have raised concerns about the potential for Depo-Provera to contribute to serious health issues, including brain tumors. Research has suggested that progestin, the synthetic hormone in Depo-Provera, may be linked to an increased risk of a specific type of brain tumor called meningioma. Meningiomas are typically benign (non-cancerous), but their location near the brain and spinal cord can lead to significant complications, especially as they grow.

Studies have observed a higher prevalence of meningioma in women who have used Depo-Provera, especially among long-term users. Meningiomas can cause symptoms such as:

  • Persistent headaches
  • Vision problems
  • Memory difficulties
  • Seizures

Because these tumors grow slowly, users may not immediately experience symptoms. However, when symptoms do arise, they can interfere with daily life and may require surgical intervention, which carries its own risks.

Bone Density Concerns and Long-Term Health Implications

Another significant risk associated with Depo-Provera is a decrease in bone mineral density. This risk is concerning because it increases the likelihood of fractures and osteoporosis, particularly in young women whose bone density is still developing. The FDA has issued a warning regarding this risk, recommending that Depo-Provera should not be used as a long-term contraceptive unless no other options are suitable​.

The potential for bone density loss is particularly concerning for younger users who may experience an early onset of bone weakening, affecting their health long after they stop using Depo-Provera. This long-term impact on bone health is an ongoing area of research and concern among healthcare providers.

Legal Action and Depo-Provera Lawsuits

Due to the severity of these potential side effects, lawsuits against Depo-Provera’s manufacturer have emerged. These lawsuits generally claim that the drug’s manufacturer failed to adequately warn users of the potential risks associated with Depo-Provera, particularly the risks of brain tumors and bone density loss. Legal claims often center on arguments that:

  • Inadequate warning labels did not sufficiently communicate the serious risks associated with long-term Depo-Provera use.
  • Failure to conduct thorough research or adequately disclose known risks related to brain tumors and bone health.
  • Negligence in testing and monitoring the long-term safety of the synthetic hormone progestin in users over time.

Those pursuing failure to diagnose lawsuits in Louisville seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other costs associated with these health impacts. If you have used Depo-Provera and experienced severe side effects or been diagnosed with a meningioma, speaking to a legal professional can help you understand your options and whether pursuing a claim is possible.

Should You Consult an Attorney if You Have Experienced Depo-Provera Side Effects?

If you or a loved one has experienced serious health issues after using Depo-Provera, it may be helpful to consult with an attorney. An experienced personal injury or product liability attorney can help you explore your legal options, including filing a claim to seek compensation for medical expenses and other damages related to the impact of Depo-Provera.

Attorneys handling these cases can help investigate your medical history, gather evidence, and determine whether Depo-Provera use could have contributed to your health issues. Consulting with a medical malpractice attorney in Louisville also provides guidance on whether joining a class-action lawsuit or filing an individual claim is the most appropriate path for your case.