Who Can Potentially Seek Compensation From the Depo-Provera Lawsuit?

Depo-Provera, a popular birth control option, is administered via injection every three months and was long hailed for its convenience and efficacy. Unfortunately, a number of lawsuits have been filed alleging that the manufacturer, Pfizer, did not adequately warn users about some of the drug’s risks, particularly those involving bone density loss, brain tumors, and other long-term health issues.

According to The Mayo Clinic, research has suggested that Depo-Provera and Depo-SubQ Provera 104 could result in loss of bone mineral density and could be especially concerning for teens who typically haven’t reached their peak bone mass and that it may not be reversible. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has also warned that these products could increase the likelihood of developing osteoporosis and bone fractures later in life.

The Depo-Provera lawsuit has raised significant concerns for individuals who have used this contraceptive injection and experienced severe side effects, leaving many former users asking, “Who can potentially seek compensation from the Depo-Provera lawsuit?”

The Depo-Provera Lawsuit

First introduced in the United States for managing menstruation in 1959, Depo-Provera (medroxyprogesterone acetate) has been widely used since its approval as a contraceptive in the U.S. in the early 1990s. Marketed as a hassle-free birth control option, it prevents pregnancy by suppressing ovulation and altering the cervical mucus and uterine lining.

While many users have found it effective and convenient, others have reported serious health issues after prolonged use.

Product liability lawsuits against Pfizer allege that the company did not sufficiently inform consumers about some of these risks, especially concerning reduced bone mineral density (BMD), as well as an excess risk of intracranial meningioma (brain tumors). Plaintiffs claim they might have made different decisions about their contraception had they been aware of the long-term effects.

Who Can File a Claim?

In the USA, medroxyprogesterone acetate was used in more than 2 million prescriptions in 2020, and more than one in five sexually active American women (23%) report having used injected medroxyprogesterone acetate (150 mg/3 mL) in their lifetime, according to a National Health Statistics report published by the National Library of Medicine.

Eligibility to file a claim in a Depo-Provera lawsuit depends on several factors, including the nature of the harm suffered, the duration of drug use, and the timeline of the injury. Let’s examine the groups most likely to qualify for legal action.

Individuals Diagnosed with Osteoporosis or Severe Bone Loss

One of the most significant risks associated with Depo-Provera is its impact on bone health. Women who used Depo-Provera for an extended period and later developed osteoporosis or experienced severe bone fractures may have grounds for a lawsuit.

Young women, in particular, are at heightened risk because their bones may not have reached peak density at the time of use. Plaintiffs often argue that they were not properly informed about the importance of limiting use or monitoring bone health during treatment.

Patients Who Used Depo-Provera Long-Term

Although the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advised against prolonged use of Depo-Provera due to its potential side effects, some individuals continued treatment for years without adequate monitoring or alternative contraceptive counseling.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that the Depo-Provera 3-month injectable contraceptive was used by 4.5% of sexually active women in 1995 and up to 23% in 2006–2010.

Long-term users who later developed complications such as bone density loss, chronic pain, or limited mobility may qualify to file a claim.

Adolescents and Young Adults

Depo-Provera has been marketed to younger individuals, including teenagers and young adults, for its ease of use and reliability. However, adolescents whose skeletal systems were still developing when they began using the drug face unique challenges. Prolonged use during this critical period could result in lifelong health issues.

Women Who Experienced Other Severe Side Effects

While bone health is the most frequently cited issue in lawsuits, other serious Depo-Provera side effects, such as mood disorders, prolonged infertility, and metabolic changes, are also grounds for compensation. Patients who have experienced these complications and believe their injuries were connected to Depo-Provera should consider consulting an attorney to explore their legal options.

Surviving Family Members in Wrongful Death Cases

In rare but tragic circumstances, some individuals have alleged fatal complications linked to Depo-Provera. If a loved one passed away due to severe complications associated with the drug, surviving family members might pursue a wrongful death claim. These cases require a strong evidentiary connection between the drug and the fatal outcome.

Not every adverse outcome from Depo-Provera use qualifies as a compensable injury. An experienced attorney can review your case, help determine whether negligence occurred, and advise on the best course of action.

Compensation in Depo-Provera Lawsuits

While each case is unique, those who successfully file legitimate claims could be eligible to be awarded compensation for a variety of economic and non-economic losses, the most common including:

• Medical Expenses: Including the cost of medical and diagnostic tests, treatments, physical therapy, and ongoing medical care related to Depo-Provera complications.

• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for non-economic losses includes things like the physical pain that’s been suffered, emotional distress experienced, and any diminished quality of life and relationships that have resulted from their injuries.
• Lost Wages: If injuries resulted in time away from work or reduced earning capacity, claimants might recover compensation for lost income.

The Depo-Provera litigation highlights the importance of informed consent in medical treatments.

Patients have a right to understand the risks associated with medications, as well as the potential risks of long-term contraceptive use, and make choices based on complete and transparent information from pharmaceutical manufacturers.

Those who’ve suffered from significant complications, like osteoporosis, severe bone fractures, or brain tumors, may have the right to seek compensation if they can demonstrate a link between their injuries and the drug.

If you or a loved one experienced harm from Depo-Provera, it is crucial to act quickly to preserve your legal rights. A qualified Hendrickson & Long, PLLC attorney can review your medical records and determine whether you may be eligible to file a claim.

Taking these steps can help secure the compensation that you and your family need and deserve.