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Depo Provera and the Increased Risk of Meningiomas: What You Need to Know
Depo Provera is a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone, commonly used as a contraceptive. Typically administered via injection every three months, Depo Provera prevents pregnancy by stopping ovulation and thickening cervical mucus to block sperm from reaching the egg. It was developed in the 1950s by the Upjohn Company and approved in the United States as a contraceptive in 1992. Although the FDA issued a “black box warning” advising that Depo Provera should not be used long-term due to risks to bone health, the medication has continued to be prescribed widely, sometimes exceeding recommended usage limits.
In recent years, safety warnings for Depo Provera have been updated in both Europe and Canada to address the increased risk of meningiomas associated with prolonged use of the medication. In Europe, a black box warning was added in 2024 following the results the French study linking Depo Provera to a higher risk of meningiomas. The updated European label now advises healthcare providers to discontinue Depo Provera if a meningioma is diagnosed and to exercise caution when prescribing it to patients with a history of meningiomas. In Canada, similar changes were made in 2015 when meningioma was added as a potential adverse reaction in the product monograph, including recommendations to monitor for related symptoms and consider alternatives for at-risk patients.
Despite these international updates, the U.S. black box warning for Depo Provera has yet to be updated, leaving American patients without the same level of precautionary information regarding the risks of prolonged use.
Recent Studies Link Depo Provera to Meningiomas
Recent studies have revealed that extended use of Depo Provera may be associated with an increased risk of developing meningiomas, a type of tumor that forms in the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. According to a French case-control study, prolonged use of Depo Provera is linked to a nearly fivefold increase in the risk of developing meningiomas. Meningiomas, while often benign, can cause serious health complications due to their location near critical areas of the brain. Symptoms associated with meningiomas include chronic headaches, vision problems, cognitive difficulties, fatigue, seizures, speech issues, and even mood changes or depression.
Symptoms of Meningiomas:
The symptoms of a meningioma vary widely depending on the tumor’s size, location, and rate of growth. Since these tumors can press on different parts of the brain or spinal cord, they may cause a range of neurological symptoms, including:
- Headaches: Often persistent and progressively worsening.
- Vision Problems: Such as blurred or double vision, or even loss of vision in severe cases.
- Cognitive Difficulties: Including memory loss, confusion, or difficulty concentrating.
- Fatigue: Persistent tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest.
- Seizures: Especially if the tumor is near the brain’s motor or sensory areas.
- Speech Problems: Difficulty finding words or slurred speech.
- Weakness or Numbness: Often in the limbs or one side of the body.
- Loss of Balance or Coordination: Especially if the meningioma affects the cerebellum or other parts of the brain responsible for movement.
- Mood Changes or Depression: Emotional and behavioral changes are possible if the tumor affects areas involved in personality and mood regulation.
Because meningiomas often develop slowly, it can take years for symptoms to develop. In many cases, meningiomas may grow without causing noticeable symptoms, especially if they are small or located in areas of the brain that don’t immediately impact critical functions.
When symptoms do appear, they usually develop gradually as the tumor grows large enough to exert pressure on surrounding brain tissues or nerves. This slow progression is why many people only seek medical attention once symptoms, such as headaches, vision changes, or cognitive issues, begin to interfere with daily life.
If you have used Depo Provera for over a year and are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, consider discussing them with your healthcare provider.
Diagnosis of Meningiomas:
Meningiomas are typically diagnosed using imaging studies, such as:
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI):
o MRI is the preferred method for diagnosing meningiomas, offering highly detailed images of the brain and spinal cord that allow doctors to assess the size, location, and characteristics of the tumor. - Computed Tomography (CT) Scans:
o Useful in certain cases, especially to detect calcified (hardened) meningiomas. - Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scans:
o May be used in some cases to further assess blood flow or to plan for surgery. - Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA):
o An imaging technique that focuses on blood vessels and blood flow, which can be helpful if the meningioma is located near vascular structures. - X-Rays:
o Generally, less commonly used for diagnosing meningiomas but may be helpful in identifying bone changes or calcifications in the skull caused by tumor growth.
These imaging techniques help doctors determine the size, location, and characteristics of the meningioma, which is crucial for determining treatment options.
Call 866.797.5236 or email help@bighornlaw.com for a free case evaluation.
Treatment Options for Meningiomas
Treatment for meningiomas depends on factors such as the size and location of the tumor, symptoms, and overall health of the patient. Common treatment options include:
- Surgery: The primary treatment for accessible and symptomatic meningiomas. Surgeons may remove as much of the tumor as possible, but tumors in certain locations may be challenging to remove completely.
- Radiation Therapy: Often recommended if the entire tumor cannot be surgically removed or if the tumor regrows after surgery. Radiation helps target and shrink remaining tumor cells.
- Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS): A type of targeted radiation that delivers high doses directly to the tumor with minimal impact on surrounding tissue.
- Chemotherapy: Generally less effective for meningiomas but may be considered for aggressive or malignant cases.
- Observation: For small, slow-growing, asymptomatic meningiomas, doctors may recommend regular monitoring with MRI scans rather than immediate treatment.
Our attorneys can help you understand your legal options if Depo Provera may have played a role in your diagnosis, guiding you through each step of the legal process.
Our firm is actively investigating cases for individuals who meet the following criteria:
- If you used Depo Provera or its subcutaneous version, Depo SubQ 104, for at least one year, and you:
- Developed a meningioma after using the medication
- Have a confirmed meningioma diagnosis through medical imaging, such as an MRI or CT scan
- Are experiencing symptoms associated with meningiomas, including headaches, cognitive issues, seizures, vision problems, or neurological deficits
You may be eligible to pursue legal action.
Contact us at 866.797.5236 or email help@bighornlaw.com for a free case evaluation or to explore your options.