Attorneys Investigating Cancer Risk Associated with Popular Progestogen Birth Controls
Recent studies have revealed serious cancer risks associated with Depo-Provera and similar progestogen-based drugs. Cohen & Malad, LLP’s experienced team of pharmaceutical drug attorneys, dedicated to protecting the rights of those harmed by unsafe medications, is ready to investigate claims and pursue compensation on your behalf. If you or a loved one has developed a brain tumor, particularly meningioma, after using progestogen-based medications like Depo-Provera, we’re here to help. Contact us for a free, confidential case evaluation at 866.446.7478.
Potentially Serious Risks of Progestogen Medications
A comprehensive study published in The British Medical Journal in March 2024 analyzed data on certain progestogen drugs and found a strong association between prolonged use and an increased risk of meningiomas, a type of brain tumor. This groundbreaking research underscores the need for heightened awareness and action against drug manufacturers who may not have provided adequate warnings.
What is a Meningioma?
Meningiomas are tumors that grow from the meninges, the layers of tissue covering the brain and spinal cord. While most meningiomas are non-cancerous, their location within the skull can lead to significant health risks, requiring surgical removal to relieve pressure on the brain. Meningiomas are the most common primary brain tumor, accounting for around 30% of all brain tumors.
What Medications were most implicated as potentially causing Meningioma cancer?
Depo-Provera (Medroxyprogesterone Acetate): Commonly used as an injectable contraceptive, Depo-Provera is also prescribed to manage endometriosis and other gynecological conditions. The study found that prolonged use (over a year) of Depo-Provera increased the risk of meningiomas by 5.6 times.
Medrogestone: Used for menstrual disorders and menopausal hormone therapy, medrogestone was linked to a 4.1 times increase in the risk of meningiomas.
Progesterone and synthetic progestogens, the active ingredients in these drugs, are known to influence hormone-sensitive tissues. More than 60% of meningiomas contain progesterone receptors, which may explain why exposure to progestogens is linked to tumor growth.
Importantly, this association was only observed with usage of one year or more; no increased risk was noted for shorter durations.
Drug Manufacturer Liability
Drug manufacturers like Pfizer, the maker of Depo-Provera, have a responsibility to warn patients and doctors of known risks associated with their products. If they fail to do so, they can be held liable for harm caused by their medications.
Failure to Warn Claims
The basis for many meningioma-related lawsuits is “failure to warn.” This legal claim asserts that the manufacturer did not adequately disclose the potential for severe side effects, including the risk of brain tumors. When risks are not made clear to users, patients are deprived of the information they need to make safe health choices.
Product Liability
A product liability lawsuit can help victims secure compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages incurred due to negligent or inadequate warnings. Given the severe health consequences of meningiomas, affected individuals may face lifelong medical challenges.
You may qualify for a Depo-Provera lawsuit if you meet the following criteria:
- Received Two or More Depo-Provera Injections: Frequent, prolonged use is critical to establishing a connection with meningioma development.
- Diagnosed with Meningioma: A clear medical diagnosis is required.
- Sustained Physical, Financial or Emotional Harm: A tumor diagnosis can lead to life-altering health issues, financial strain and emotional distress.
Cohen & Malad, LLP Pharmaceutical Drug Attorney Team Can Help
Our experienced pharmaceutical drug lawsuit attorneys are actively investigating cases where patients developed meningiomas after using Depo-Provera or other progestogen medications. With a history of aggressive legal representation, we are committed to fighting large pharmaceutical companies to secure fair compensation for our clients. Our team will review your medical history, usage of progestogen medications, and other relevant details. We conduct comprehensive investigations, collaborating with medical experts to strengthen each case.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with meningioma after using Depo-Provera or similar progestogen medications, don’t face this challenge alone. Let our team be your ally. Our staff is compassionate, supportive, understanding the challenges of managing a serious health condition, and strives to make the legal process as stress-free as possible.
Contact us today to schedule a free, confidential consultation. Our team at Cohen & Malad, LLP is ready to fight for you.