Pfizer has come under significant fire for its failure to warn consumers about the correlation between the use of their contraceptive product Depo-Provera and the development of meningiomas and other types of tumors in the brain. As serious as this issue is, though, not everyone who has taken Depo-Provera will necessarily have grounds to file suit against Pfizer, even if they have also been diagnosed with a brain tumor and are still experiencing complications from it.
As with any other kind of dangerous drug claims, there are specific criteria you will need to meet to construct a strong lawsuit over Depo-Provera use that stands up to scrutiny from defense counsel and the court system in general. With that in mind, here is a brief overview of the qualifications for a Depo-Provera lawsuit that our experienced lawyers at Phillips Law Group can help establish that you meet.
Requirements and Exclusions for Depo-Provera Claims
Someone may qualify to file a Depo-Provera lawsuit if they used any version of Depo-Provera—including products sold under the brand names depo-SubQ Provera, as well as any authorized generic version of the drug—at least two times as a contraceptive or for any other purpose. Additionally, they must be able to prove that they were formally diagnosed with meningioma or some other form of brain tumor after taking Depo-Provera.
It is worth noting here, that there are various extenuating circumstances that may prevent an otherwise qualifying plaintiff from successfully filing suit against Pfizer over a brain tumor related to Depo-Provera use, including but not limited to:
- A history of brain tumors or other neurological issues prior to taking Depo-Provera
- Use of unauthorized generic versions or non-Pfizer-brand versions of Depo-Provera, or use of a qualifying version only once
- No formal brain tumor diagnosis from a licensed medical professional
- No provable link between brain tumor development and the use of Depo-Provera
- Too much time between the last use of Depo-Provera and formal brain tumor diagnosis
- Use of other contraceptives or hormone-altering medications while using Depo-Provera
A qualified attorney from Phillips Law Group can help examine whether a particular person’s circumstances could justify legal action.
What Evidence Is Needed to Build a Strong Lawsuit?
Anyone who intends to take legal action against Pfizer over a brain tumor stemming from Depo-Provera use must have as much official documentation of their condition as possible, including comprehensive records of their initial diagnosis as well as all treatment received and prescription medications taken since that diagnosis. It is also important to establish through doctor’s notes or prescription records that the plaintiff was prescribed Depo-Provera and used it at least twice before their brain tumor diagnosis.
It will likewise be crucial to have as much evidence as possible establishing the nature and severity of losses caused by a Depo-Provera-related brain tumor. Skilled legal counsel can help collect, preserve, and effectively use information like witness testimony, financial records illustrating expenses and lost wages, and personal writings establishing lost enjoyment and quality of life.
A Depo-Provera Attorney Can Explain Lawsuit Qualifications in More Detail
Even if you check all the boxes to qualify for a Depo-Provera lawsuit, getting a favorable result is far from simple. Without capable legal representation on your side, you have virtually no chance of compelling a massive pharmaceutical corporation like Pfizer to pay you any compensation at all, let alone the full amount you deserve for your damages.
Fortunately, Phillips Law Group is here to help you build the strongest possible case and maximize the restitution you ultimately receive. Call today to discuss your options.