Depo-Provera Lawsuit – April 2025 Update

Individuals are filing Depo-Provera lawsuits against multiple defendants, including Pfizer, Inc., Viatris, Inc., Greenstone, LLC, Prasco, LLC, and Pharmacia & Upjohn Co. LLC, because of intracranial meningiomas (brain tumors). This lawsuit is in the early stages and has not become a class-action lawsuit or consolidated into a multidistrict lawsuit. People are continuing to file Depo-Provera lawsuits today. It is important to file a case as soon as someone discovers their brain tumor might have been caused by Depo-Provera use. Cases will have to be filed before the statute of limitations expires.

Depo-Provera Lawsuit Timeline & News – April 2025 Update

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What is the Depo-Provera Lawsuit About?

People are filing lawsuits against Pfizer and other manufacturers of Depo-Provera claiming the drug caused them to develop a brain tumor called an intracranial meningioma. Depo-Provera is a widely used progestin-based injectable contraceptive. Studies indicate the prescription drug may also increase a person’s risk of developing brain or spinal tumors. While usually benign, these tumors can cause debilitating headaches, chronic fatigue, vision problems, and more. People are filing lawsuits to receive compensation for their injuries.

Depo-Provera Lawsuit Information
Main Injuries:	Intracranial meningiomas (brain tumors)
Defendants:	Pfizer Inc.Viatris, Inc.Greenstone, LLCPrasco, LLCPharmacia & Upjohn Co. LLC
Mass tort or class action?	Early-stage lawsuit. May eventually become a multidistrict litigation.
Court Name (Venue):	Many cases have been filed in California Federal Court
Have There Been Settlements?	Not yet
Active Lawsuits?	Yes

Why Are People Filing Depo-Provera Lawsuits?

Individuals are filing lawsuits against the manufacturers of Depo-Provera, including Pfizer, Inc., alleging that the pharmaceutical company knew of the risk of brain tumors associated with the use of the drug and failed to warn consumers. Individuals who are diagnosed with a brain tumor after taking Depo-provera may be entitled to damages, including compensation for any missed work, medical expenses, and pain and suffering. 

Depo-Provera Lawsuit Spotlight

Monique Jones v. Pfizer, et al.

In October 2024, Monique Jones filed a lawsuit in the Central District of California against the manufacturers of Depo-Provera, including Pfizer, Inc., for defective design, failure to warn, and negligence. Ms. Jones began receiving the injectable contraceptive in 2000 at the age of 20. She stopped taking Depo-Provera in 2024 after discovering a heavily calcified intracranial meningioma that could not be removed. It is alleged that Pfizer and other manufacturers knew of the risk of developing meningiomas while taking Depo-Provera for a prolonged period and failed to warn consumers, even downplaying or concealing safety concerns.

Lesley Noble and Justin Noble v. Pfizer et al.

A lawsuit filed in the Southern District of Indiana alleges Pfizer and other manufacturers violated the state’s product liability act, engaged in negligent manufacturing, breached the express warranty, was negligent, and failed to warn consumers about the risks associated with the use of Depo-Provera. The case centers around Lesley and Justin Noble, a married couple. Lesley developed a meningioma after taking Depo-Provera for several years. The brain tumor required radiation and surgery for removal. 

Kristina Schmidt v. Pfizer et al.

Plaintiff Kristina Schmidt filed a lawsuit in the Northern District of California against Pfizer and other manufacturers of Depo-Provera, alleging that the companies knew or should have known about the risk of developing intracranial meningiomas associated with the use of the contraceptive and failed to warn consumers. Ms. Schmidt developed a brain tumor while taking the prescription injectable. She suffered debilitating headaches, dizziness, and vertigo. Surgical intervention was required to remove the ​​Sylvian fissure meningioma. 

Whom Are People Filing Depo-Provera Lawsuits Against?

Women across the country are filing lawsuits against the manufacturers of Depo-Provera, alleging the companies knew or should have known that prolonged use of the injectable contraceptive could substantially increase a person’s risk of developing intracranial meningiomas. The lawsuits further accuse the manufacturers of willfully concealing the dangers by updating warning labels in foreign countries with the risk but not placing the warning on U.S. labels. 

These are the defendants in the Depo-Provera lawsuit:

• Pfizer Inc.
• Viatris, Inc.
• Greenstone, LLC
• Prasco, LLC
• Pharmacia & Upjohn Co. LLC

Defendant: Pfizer Inc.

Pfizer, Inc. is one of the world’s largest bio-pharmaceutical companies. The company, founded in 1849, is well known for their development, production, and marketing of prescription drugs, including the injectable contraceptive Depo-Provera. Since its acquisition of Pharmacia in 2003, Pfizer has remained the main manufacturer, marketer, and distributor of Depo-Provera. 

Defendant: Viatris, Inc.

Viatris, Inc. is a global healthcare company headquartered in the United States. The company was formed in 2020 through the merger of two other companies, Mylan and Upjohn. The company is involved in the distribution of Depo-Provera and generic versions of the drug. 

Greenstone, LLC

Greenstone, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Pfizer, Inc., is a distributor of Depo-Provera’s authorized generic version, Medroxyprogesterone acetate. The company was founded in 1993

Prasco, LLC

Prasco Laboratories is an Ohio-based pharmaceutical company founded in 2002. It distributes an authorized generic of Depo-Provera known as Medroxyprogesterone Acetate.

Pharmacia & Upjohn Co. LLC

Depo-Provera was initially manufactured by Upjohn LLC. The company merged with Pharmacia in 1995 and was subsequently acquired by Pfizer, Inc. in 2003. At that time, Pfizer became the main developer, marketer, and distributor of the drug. 

Allegations Against These Manufacturers

A growing number of lawsuits have been filed against these manufacturers alleging that they knew or should have known about the severe risk of harm associated with the use of Depo-Provera, particularly over a prolonged period of time. In most instances, plaintiffs file a lawsuit against all of the defendants to ensure coverage. 

Accusations against the manufacturers in Depo-Provera lawsuits:

What Stage is the Depo-Provera Lawsuit In?

Depo-Provera lawsuits are in the early stages. Several individuals have filed lawsuits in federal courts, which may lead to multidistrict litigation (MDL). An MDL consolidates cases with similar causes of action against one or more defendants. It helps to streamline the pre-trial process and expedite mass tort cases through the court system. Due to the widespread use of the injectable contraceptive, it is expected that the number of plaintiffs will grow substantially in the coming months.

What Is Depo-Provera And How Does It Work?

Depo-Provera is the brand name for medroxyprogesterone acetate, an injectable contraceptive. The drug is injected every three months and prevents pregnancy by suppressing ovulation and thickening cervical mucus. The prescription drug contains the hormone progestin. Studies have linked prolonged use of medications with the hormone progestin to an increased risk of adverse events, including intracranial meningiomas. 

Depo-Provera Mechanism of Action

Depo-Provera contains the hormone progestin. Progestin is a human-made or synthetic form of the naturally occurring hormone progesterone. Progestin can help to prevent pregnancy by thickening your cervical mucus, inhibiting sperm from being able to reach the egg. It also suppresses ovulation by stopping a woman’s ovaries from releasing an egg. 

Side Effects of Depo-Provera

There are a number of known side effects associated with the use of Depo-Provera. The U.S. drug label lists a wide range of potential complications. However, unlike some foreign labels, the stateside one does not include warnings about the potential for intracranial meningiomas. 

Less-Common Side Effects of Depo-Provera

• Loss of Bone Mineral Density: Because Depo-Provera reduces serum estrogen levels, users may be at risk of significant loss of bone mineral density. Women with osteoporosis should not take Depo-Provera due to an increased risk of fractures. Long-term use of Depo-Provera is not recommended since these problems may be exacerbated with use over two years.
  
• Thromboembolic Disorders: Reports of serious thrombotic events have been received by patients using Depo-Provera.
  
• Breast Cancer: Depo-Provera is not recommended for women who have or have had breast cancer. Breast cancer may be hormonally sensitive.
  
• Ectopic Pregnancy: Women taking Depo-Provera may be at an increased risk for an ectopic pregnancy.
  
• Allergic Reaction: In rare cases, use of the drug may cause an allergic reaction. When severe, the allergic reaction may result in a potentially life-threatening condition known as anaphylaxis.
  
• Injection Site Reactions: In limited instances, Depo-Provera may cause a reaction at the injection site. Most often, this appears as pain, swelling, or redness when the medication is injected. 

[Short-term/More Common] Side Effects of Depo-Provera

• Bleeding Irregularities: Depo-Provera use may lead to changes in a woman’s menstrual period, including irregular bleeding and spotting within the first few months. Periods may also become heavier, lighter, or stop while using the injectable contraceptive.
  
• Weight Gain: Weight gain is a common side effect of Depo-Provera. According to Pfizer, a woman weighing 136 lbs gained an average of 5.4 lbs after one year of use.
  
• Delayed Return of Fertility: Women may experience a delayed return of fertility after taking Depo-Provera. Fertility can take several months to a year to return to normal after stopping the injections. 
• Other Adverse Effects: Other commonly reported side effects include headaches or migraines, mood changes, breast tenderness, and decreased libido. 

Serious Side Effects Associated with Depo-Provera Lawsuit

The most serious side effect associated with the use of Depo-Provera is a brain tumor or intracranial meningioma. Despite numerous reports and studies indicating a connection between the contraceptive and an increased risk of brain tumors, Pfizer has not added a warning to the label in the United States. 

Injuries Caused By Depo-Provera

Legal filings show serious harm associated with the use of Depo-Provera. One of the most concerning adverse reactions is the development of intracranial meningiomas. Women who are diagnosed with a brain tumor often report debilitating complications such as persistent headaches, chronic fatigue, loss of libido, and even incontinence as a result of the condition.

Depo Provera and Brain Tumors

Recent studies and multiple lawsuits allege that long-term use of Depo-Provera may increase a person’s risk of developing intracranial meningiomas or brain tumors. While these brain tumors are generally benign, they can cause debilitating symptoms such as persistent headaches, fatigue, vertigo, and vision disturbances.

Outcomes for Intracranial Meningiomas

Meningiomas are slow-growing and may go unnoticed for years. Signs and symptoms of an intracranial meningioma include blurry vision, hearing loss, loss of smell, and seizures. These tumors may cause long-term complications if left untreated, including trouble focusing, memory loss, and loss of mobility. The most common treatments for meningiomas are surgery and radiation. 

Possible Connections to Breast Cancers

Breast cancer may be hormonally sensitive. Therefore, women who are diagnosed or previously had breast cancer should not take Depo-Provera (a hormonal contraceptive). According to the label, an analysis of case studies related to the possible connection between Depo-Provera and breast cancer found that there may be a statistically significant increased risk.

Outcomes for Breast CancerAdvances in breast cancer treatment have substantially improved survival rates. Approximately 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer within their lifetime. When caught early, however, the 5-year relative survival rate is 99%. Treatment can include a number of solutions, including radiation, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or targeted therapy.

Studies Linking Depo-Provera and Brain Tumors

Recent studies have linked progestin-based contraceptives such as Depo-Provera to an increased risk of brain tumors. While the exact connection between the two is still being studied, these findings highlight the need for more research to determine whether drugs like Depo-Provera are safe for use. 

Study Name: Use of progestogens and the risk of intracranial meningioma: national case-control study

A 2024 study published in the British Medical Journal found that prolonged use of medroxyprogesterone acetate (Depo-Provera) increases a person’s risk of developing an intracranial meningioma. The national case-control study looked at over 18,000 French women who had intracranial surgery for meningioma. Due to the widespread use of Depo-Provera, these findings make it imperative for additional research to be conducted. 

Overview: Use of progestogens and the risk of intracranial meningioma: national case-control study
Description of Study:	A national case-control study to determine if there is a link between the use of progestogens and the risk of intracranial meningioma.
Published In:	The British Medical Journal
Study Authors	Noémie Roland, Anke Neumann, Léa Hoisnard, Lise Duranteau, et al.
# of Participants	18, 061
Findings	Women taking medroxyprogesterone acetate were at a 5.5x higher risk of developing an intracranial meningioma.

Depo-Provera Approvals and Recalls 

Depo-Provera was first introduced to the United States in the mid-1950s by Upjohn. However, it wasn’t until 1967 that the company sought FDA approval for the drug as a contraceptive. It had been approved for non-contraceptive purposes since 1960. While waiting for approval, multiple studies were conducted with somewhat concerning findings. One study had to be redone due to a high rate of mortality. Another study showed high rates of cervical cancer.

As a result of these studies, the FDA approved Depo-Provera as a contraceptive for a limited patient population in 1974. The FDA then withdrew approval of the drug in 1978 as the second study confirmed concerning rates of mammary tumors, including carcinomas. The regulatory agency said the drug had not met its safety standards. The drug eventually received FDA approval again in 1992. There are not any recalls at this time.

Current/Past Depo-Provera Information Labels

In 2004, Depo Provera’s label was updated to include a warning about the potential for significant loss of bone mineral density. The loss of bone mineral density was accelerated based on the duration of use and, in some cases, was not completely reversible. Pfizer recommends the drug not be used for long-term contraception unless there are no safe alternatives. 

Drug Labels in Europe Warn of Risk of Meningiomas

Multiple lawsuits have now pointed out that foreign Depo Provera labels have more warnings compared to the U.S. label. For instance, the UK label warns of the potential of meningiomas associated with the use of the drug. However, the U.S. label still does not have a warning. 

What Damages Can People Sue Depo-Provera Manufacturers For?

Individuals who have suffered a meningioma after taking Depo-Provera may be eligible for compensation by taking legal action. Meningiomas can cause serious, life-altering side effects. Filing a lawsuit can help to ensure you receive financial recovery for all of your injury-related losses, including your medical bills, future treatment costs, and any loss of income. 

Damages in a Depo-Provera Lawsuit:

• Medical Bills: Meningiomas can result in exorbitant medical bills. The most common way to treat a brain tumor is through radiation or surgical intervention. Both of these options are extremely costly and should be covered by the party that caused you harm.
  
• Lost Wages: If you were required to miss work as a result of your injury or have been unable to return to your normal activities, you may be eligible for compensation related to your lost wages and loss of future earning capacity.
  
• Disability and Disfigurement: If you are permanently disabled or disfigured, you may receive additional compensation to help cover any additional care and treatment you need.
  
• Loss of Consortium: If your injury has impacted your relationships, making you unable to provide companionship, you may be able to claim damages related to loss of consortium.
  
• Attorneys Fees and Costs: Depending on the circumstances of the case, you may be able to recover any attorney fees and costs related to your case. 

Who Qualifies to File a Depo-Provera Lawsuit?

In order to file a Depo-Provera lawsuit, each person has to meet certain eligibility requirements. Our legal partners are focusing on the specific injuries listed below:

• Intracranial meningiomas
• Spinal meningiomas

There are several eligibility criteria that you must meet before you can file a Depo-Provera lawsuit. Foremost, you must be able to show proof of use. Duration of use may prove critical. In most cases, you will have to show that you received two injections over the course of six months.

Additionally, you will need to provide proof that you suffered serious harm. Proof of medical records, including notes from doctor or hospital visits. The more documentation you have confirming the severity of your injuries, the stronger your case will be.

What Proof Do You Need to File a Depo-Provera Lawsuit?

To file a Depo-Provera lawsuit, you will need to provide a comprehensive set of medical records and a prescription history. To qualify it is critical to show that you took name-brand Depo-Provera or an authorized generic for at least six months (two injections). Additionally, your medical records will need to establish an intracranial meningioma diagnosis and any treatment you received.

Evidence of Depo-Provera Use and Timeline of Use

• Proof of Depo-Provera Use: In order to qualify, you must be able to show that you were given brand-name Depo-Provera or an authorized generic. Medical records, prescription information, or a doctor’s note can help to establish this.
  
• Timeline of Use: Medical records should also be able to show the amount of time you have been receiving Depo-Provera injections. Many cases are bolstered by evidence of long-term use of the contraceptive.

Evidence About Your Diagnosis and Treatments

• Proof of Diagnosis: Not all Depo-Provera injuries will qualify for compensation. In general, your medical records must show you were diagnosed with a brain tumor. It should be confirmed through an MRI or CT scan and meetings with a specialist. You will also want to provide any information, documentation, or records that establish the side effects you suffered from the meningioma.
  
• Proof of Treatment: Medical records must further establish a proof of treatment. Any care that you received related to your injury should be well-documented. Pathology reports often prove critical to detailing the type of tumor and the plan for treatment.

Evidence Showing Your Losses

• Medical Bills: All medical expenses related to your injury may be compensable. It is important to keep detailed records of past and future treatment, including the cost of rehabilitation, therapy, or modifications that need to be made to your home to accommodate any disability.
  
• Lost Wages: If your brain tumor required you to miss work or resulted in the inability for you to complete your job, you may be able to claim damages related to lost wages. Pay stubs or income verification is required to help prove these losses.
  
• Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Any out-of-pocket expenses may qualify as damages as long as they are related to your injury.
  
• Evidence of Impact on Quality of Life: While less quantifiable, evidence that the injury impacted or diminished your quality of life can help to ensure you receive the maximum recovery possible. 

Testimony From You and Your Family

• Personal and Witness Testimony: Statements from those closest to you, as well as your own words, can help to establish how your injury affected your daily life. 

7 Steps to File a Depo-Provera Lawsuit

To file a successful Depo-Provera lawsuit, you need to speak with an attorney. An attorney will guide you through the legal process and ensure your claim meets the necessary requirements. The process is often complicated and lengthy. Without the help of an attorney, you may not be able to recover the damages you need. Meningiomas can have long-lasting effects, even once they are removed. An attorney can make sure you receive compensation to cover all of your injury-related losses. 

These are the 7 steps for filing a Depo-Provera lawsuit:

1. Consult with an Attorney Experienced in Depo-Provera Litigation: The first step in a Depo-Provera lawsuit is consulting with an attorney who is well-versed in pharmaceutical drug litigation. An attorney will evaluate your case to determine whether you may qualify for compensation.
   
2. Gather Evidence to Support Your Claim: Once eligibility is established, you will need to collect evidence to substantiate your claim. This evidence may include your prescription records, doctor’s notes, medical history, hospital or emergency room bills, and witness statements about how the meningioma affected your daily life.
   
3. File the Claim in the Appropriate Jurisdiction: Your attorney will then file the claim within the appropriate jurisdiction. Prior to filing, they will ensure that your case is filed within the state’s legal deadline, known as the statute of limitations and that all requirements are met. In some cases, you may be able to join existing litigation known as an MDL. 
4. Pre-Trial and Discovery Phase: After the case is filed, it will enter the pre-trial and discovery phase. During this time, both sides will gather and exchange information about the case. A judge will decide what evidence can be admitted during the trial and the relevant experts or witnesses that can testify.
   
5. Enter into Settlement Negotiations: throughout this phase of the case, your attorney may be discussing settlement options with the defendant. As Depo-Provera lawsuits progress, manufacturers, such as Pfizer, may choose to offer settlements to plaintiffs in an effort to avoid a lengthy trial. If you choose to accept a settlement, the matter may be set for trial, and a judge or jury will decide the outcome.
   
6. Jury Trial: If a favorable settlement cannot be negotiated, the matter will be set for trial. During the trial, both sides will be able to present their case. If cases were consolidated into multidistrict litigation, there may be several bellwether trials that can give some insight into how future cases may be resolved.
   
7. Receive Compensation or Appeal the Decision: If your case is successful, you may receive compensation for your damages. If your case went to trial and the outcome was unfavorable, you may be able to appeal the decision with the help of your attorney. 

What to Expect When Filing a Depo-Provera Lawsuit

Your attorney will help you navigate the legal process; however, it can be lengthy. In most cases, lawsuits involving dangerous and defective drugs can take months, if not a year or more, to resolve. A settlement may help to expedite the resolution. The amount of money you receive, either from a settlement or a jury verdict, will depend on a number of factors, including the severity of your injuries. Most attorneys handle Depo-Provera cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no upfront fees. 

What is the Deadline for Filing a Depo-Provera Lawsuit?

The length of time you have to file a Depo-Provera lawsuit depends on the statute of limitations. The statute of limitations varies by state, but for most product liability or personal injury cases, it is between 1 and 6 years. The vast majority of states, however, limit it further to between 1 and 3 years.

Known as the Discovery Rule, the timeline generally starts from the date of your injury or the date you discovered your injury was caused by Depo-Provera. There are some exceptions, including if you were a minor at the time your injury occurred or if you were incapacitated. If your loved one died as a result of their Depo-Provera use, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim. The statute of limitations for wrongful death lawsuits generally begins from the date of the person’s death. 

Due to the complexities of these cases, it is essential to discuss your case with an attorney immediately after a diagnosis. An attorney can ensure your case is properly filed within the applicable statute of limitations. 

Depo-Provera Settlements and Awards

There have not been any settlements or awards in Depo-Provera lawsuits, as they are in the early stages. However, potential settlement amounts are expected to range between $150,000 and $500,000. Factors including the severity of the meningioma and the impact on your quality of life may result in higher compensation. An attorney can help determine the potential value of your case and estimate the damages you should request when your case is filed.

Factors Affecting the Value of a Depo-Provera Lawsuit

Factors that may affect a Depo-Provera lawsuit include the severity of your injury. If your meningioma resulted in severe or permanent damages, you may be entitled to higher compensation. Additionally, if your quality of life was diminished, you may have a larger value to your case. An attorney can help you gather the evidence necessary to prove your damages. 

In some instances, you may be eligible for punitive damages. Punitive damages are designed to punish the defendant for grossly negligent or wilful misconduct. Punitive damages can often significantly increase the amount of money you receive in a jury award. 

Learn More About Depo-Provera Lawsuits From Our Legal Team

Individuals taking Depo-Provera who have subsequently been diagnosed with a brain tumor or intracranial meningioma may qualify for compensation. It is essential to act quickly, as cases are moving forward, and failing to file within the statute of limitations may result in your claim being denied. An attorney can help to ensure you get the financial recovery you deserve and will work to hold all potentially liable parties accountable for their wrongdoing.