Pfizer's ‘Depo-Provera' Increases Risk of Brain Tumours 3.5 Times Compared to Combined Birth Control Pill According to New Study as Litigation Overseen by Levin Papantonio Rises to Over 550 Lawsuits

Core Insights - A recent study published in the journal Expert Opinion on Drug Safety indicates that the use of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA), marketed as Depo-Provera by Pfizer, for over one year is linked to a 3.5-fold increased risk of developing intracranial meningioma compared to the combined birth control pill Ethinylestradiol/levonorgestrel [1][13] - The study analyzed data from 114 million unique individuals, highlighting significant safety concerns regarding long-term use of DMPA [1][13] - Pfizer is currently facing a multidistrict litigation (MDL No. 3140) in the USA, with over 550 lawsuits filed by women who developed meningiomas after using Depo-Provera for more than one year [2][13] Company Liability - The lawsuits allege that Pfizer was aware of the risks associated with DMPA and failed to provide adequate warnings or promote safer alternatives [3] - Despite acknowledging the risks and adding warning labels in Canada and Europe, Pfizer has not issued similar warnings in the United States, raising concerns about inconsistent global safety standards [3] - Law firms are exploring potential class actions in various jurisdictions, including Europe, Australia, South Africa, and Canada [4] Historical Context - Depo-Provera was originally developed in the 1950s as a cancer treatment and has been marketed as a contraceptive since 1969, despite prior evidence of its carcinogenic potential in animals [6] - The FDA has previously denied approval for the drug multiple times due to safety concerns before it was finally approved in the US in 1992 [6] - The FDA has also denied multiple Freedom of Information Act requests regarding communications with Pfizer about Depo-Provera, citing trade secrets [7] Market Impact - Approximately 24.5% of sexually active women in the US have used Depo-Provera in their lifetime, with 15% usage reported in the UK [5] - The study's findings may lead women to consider safer contraceptive options, potentially impacting the market for DMPA [5]