Depo-Provera, a widely used injectable contraceptive, has become the subject of numerous lawsuits alleging that its use is linked to serious health risks, including brain tumors. These lawsuits have recently been consolidated into a multidistrict litigation (MDL) in the Northern District of Florida, and the move is expected to promote judicial efficiency and consistency in rulings. Now that these lawsuits have been consolidated into a Florida MDL, what can we expect of the cases going forward?
In a study published in the British Medical Journal in March 2024, a potential link was discovered between Depo-Provera and brain tumors, specifically meningiomas. Although meningiomas are typically benign, they can become large enough to cause serious neurological issues such as headaches, vision problems, seizures, and cognitive difficulties.
After that study was published, patients who used Depo-Provera and later developed meningiomas or other forms of brain tumors started to file lawsuits against Pfizer – the manufacturer of the drug – and other companies that produced versions of it. By February 2025, more than 75 federal lawsuits had been filed in 17 states.
The consolidation aims to streamline pretrial proceedings, including discovery and motions, for those lawsuits filed across the country in regard to Depo Provera. Thanks to the consolidation of the cases, the plaintiffs can share information and litigation costs and, once liability is established, each plaintiff will have the opportunity to present their individual claim for damages.
Cases that are part of the Florida MDL for Depo-Provera argue that Pfizer knew or should have known about the risk of people using the drug developing meningiomas or other forms of brain tumors, but did not provide adequate warnings to those consumers or to healthcare providers.
If the cases involved don’t settle during the MDL proceedings, they may be remanded to their original districts for individual trials. But for now, for those who have used Depo Provera and experienced adverse health effects, the MDL represents an opportunity to seek accountability and compensation through the justice system.
At Phillips Law Group, we hope that this development highlights the increasing scrutiny of pharmaceutical companies and their responsibility to ensure the safety of their products. Our team is experienced in seeking justice for those who have been harmed by dangerous or defective products and drugs, and we welcome the continuing investigation into the potential dangers of Depo-Provera for consumers.
If you or a loved one was diagnosed with meningioma or some other form of brain tumor after taking Depo-Provera, you may qualify to pursue a Depo-Provera claim. Please contact us today at 602-222-2222 to learn more.
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