Background
Depo-Provera is a contraceptive injection that is administered every three months. It is a highly effective form of birth control, but it also carries a number of potential side effects, including:
- Bone mineral density loss
- Weight gain
- Mood changes
- Irregular bleeding
- Headaches
- Pseudotumor cerebri (PTC), a rare but serious condition that can cause headaches, vision problems, and dizziness
In 2019, a number of lawsuits were filed against Pfizer, the manufacturer of Depo-Provera, alleging that the company failed to adequately warn patients and healthcare providers of the risks associated with the drug. The lawsuits also allege that Pfizer failed to adequately test the drug before marketing it to the public.
The lawsuits were consolidated into a multidistrict litigation (MDL) in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Illinois. The MDL is currently ongoing.
Allegations in the Lawsuit
The plaintiffs in the Depo-Provera lawsuit allege that Pfizer:
- Knew about the risks of bone mineral density loss, weight gain, mood changes, irregular bleeding, and headaches associated with Depo-Provera, but failed to adequately warn patients and healthcare providers.
- Knew about the risk of PTC associated with Depo-Provera, but failed to warn patients and healthcare providers of this risk.
- Failed to adequately test Depo-Provera before marketing it to the public.
Potential Damages
If the plaintiffs are successful in their lawsuit, they may be awarded damages for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
References
- Depo-Provera Lawsuit – Pseudotumor Cerebri – Osteoporosis – Impact Law: https://www.impactlaw.com/dangerous-drugs/depo-provera
- What Should I Do If I Suffered a Side Effect from Depo-Provera? | LegalMatch: https://www.legalmatch.com/law-library/article/depo-provera-lawyers.html
- Settlement Agreement Reached in the Canadian Depo-Provera Class Action – Newswire.CA: https://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/settlement-agreement-reached-in-the-canadian-depo-provera-class-action-882468594.html
- Depo-Provera Class Action Lawsuit | Siskinds Law Firm: https://www.siskinds.com/class-action/depo-provera-2/