Depo-Provera Brain Tumor Claims Spur Legal Action in UK, US
Legal challenges are mounting against Pfizer over its Depo-Provera contraceptive injection, with law firms in both the UK and the US preparing to represent women who allege the drug caused them to develop meningiomas, a type of brain tumor. The cases center on claims that Pfizer failed to adequately warn patients and medical professionals about the potential risks associated with prolonged use of the medication.
Depo-Provera, a high-dose synthetic progesterone, is administered via injection every three months and is used for contraception and the treatment of certain menstrual symptoms. Globally, approximately women use injectable contraception, representing 3.1% of women aged 15-49 in the UK, according to UN data.
Growing Evidence of Risk
Multiple studies have indicated a higher relative risk of meningioma development among women who use Depo-Provera, although the overall risk remains low. Meningiomas are typically benign but can cause serious neurological problems, including seizures, blindness, hearing loss, headaches, and memory impairment.
A study published in the edition of the BMJ found that women who used Depo shots for at least a year were five times more likely to develop meningioma brain tumors. This finding prompted the FDA to update the U.S. Warning label in , but legal teams argue the warning came too late for many patients.
UK Law Firms Prepare for Litigation
Several UK law firms are now investigating potential claims against Pfizer. Austen Hays has received inquiries from at least women who developed meningiomas after prolonged Depo-Provera use. Fletchers and Leigh Day are also actively seeking clients and assessing the legal basis for potential cases.
“We have been approached by at least 30 women who have developed meningiomas following prolonged use of Depo-Provera,” said Chaya Hanoomanjee, a partner at Austen Hays. “Their lives have been considerably impacted due to having brain tumours, with consequences such as loss of vision and, in one case, a woman having to terminate her pregnancy. The duty here lies with Pfizer to ensure a drug is safe and to update warnings and contraindications as soon as new risks become known.”
Jill Paterson, a partner at Leigh Day, echoed these concerns, stating, “We have been aware for some time of the concerns that have been raised in relation to Depo-Provera. We know the devastating impact meningiomas can have on women’s lives and are assessing the strength of any potential case of those affected.”
US Litigation Gains Momentum
The UK legal considerations come as a significant wave of lawsuits is already underway in the United States. As of , over claims have been consolidated into a multidistrict litigation (MDL) in the US federal court system. Three law firms are leading the federal case, representing approximately women, with the first trial scheduled for .
Lawyers representing the plaintiffs allege that Pfizer was aware of the potential link between Depo-Provera and meningioma as early as but failed to adequately warn patients, medical professionals, or the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Personal Accounts of Impact
The health consequences of meningioma can be life-altering. Sandra Somarakis, a plaintiff in the US lawsuit, shared her experience, stating, “Women shouldn’t have to live with what I’ve gone through. There has to be consequences.” Somarakis underwent multiple surgeries and radiation treatments after being diagnosed with a meningioma in following of Depo-Provera use, and continues to suffer from ongoing health problems, including vision impairment and memory loss.
In the UK, Claire Buck, , believes Depo-Provera may have contributed to her meningioma diagnosis. She underwent brain surgery and now requires a metal plate in her skull. She reports ongoing symptoms including pain, glaucoma, hearing and memory problems, and significant mental health challenges.
Emma, , who took Depo-Provera for until , was diagnosed with meningiomas in after experiencing seizures. While she has physically recovered from surgery, she now experiences fatigue, memory problems, and fears the tumors may return.
Pfizer’s Response
Pfizer maintains that patient safety is its top priority and that it continuously monitors its medicines in collaboration with health authorities worldwide. A Pfizer spokesperson stated, “Depo-Provera has been approved in more than 60 countries over the last 30 years, has a well-established efficacy and safety profile and has been a treatment option for millions of patients during that time.”
The company encourages individuals with concerns or experiencing side effects to consult with their healthcare provider.
