Many women can safely take the Depo-Provera birth control shot. Doctors consider it an effective method of birth control. However, the drug does have some side effects that doctors should note. Moreover, researchers have recently linked the drug to a specific type of brain tumor. A medical professional should evaluate your health before you start taking this medication.
Some users have adverse reactions that make Depo-Provera unsafe for them. If you believe your health was compromised and now wonder if it’s safe to take Depo-Provera, speak to your healthcare provider. You may also want to consider consulting a Depo Provera lawsuit lawyer in your area who can clarify your legal options. Most law firms will offer a free claim review.
Who Can Take the Depo-Provera Shot Safely?
Many women can take Depo-Provera with minimal side effects. According to Cleveland Clinic research, Depo-Provera is safe for women in good health and with no noted contraindications. It should not be used by women who have any of the following:
- A history of lupus
- Breast cancer diagnosis
- Diagnosed liver disease
- Heart disease or stroke
- Unexplained vaginal bleeding
Discuss any of these issues with your healthcare provider, who can help you choose an alternative method of birth control. They can also establish a connection between Depo-Provera and any changes to your health.
How Long Is It Safe to Take Depo-Provera?
Pfizer (the name-brand manufacturer of Depo-Provera) advises users not to take this medication for more than two years due to its potential to affect bone mineral density negatively. Long-term use could lead to a decrease in bone density. Lower levels can lead to the following medical conditions:
- Osteopenia (loss of bone density)
- Osteoporosis (weakening of the bones)
- Increased risk of bone fractures
Stopping Depo-Provera can help bone mineral density levels return to normal or near normal over time.
What Other Side Effects Do Depo-Provera Users Experience?
When a doctor prescribes a drug, they should tell you about all its possible side effects and potentially harmful medication interactions. Like any medication, Depo-Provera has some known side effects that users should be aware of, including the following:
- Acne
- Depression
- Hair growth or loss
- Headaches
- Increased appetite
- Menstrual changes
- Nervousness
- Osteoporosis
- Weight gain
Drug manufacturers must fully disclose all known side effects to consumers. Failing to do so could harm patient health and lead to personal injury and wrongful death claims.
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(855) 529-0269Does Depo-Provera Cause Brain Tumors?
Recent studies have established a connection between developing a meningioma (an injection DNA brain tumor) and patients who received more than two shots of Depo-Provera. Meningioma symptoms include:
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Hearing loss
- Localized paralysis
- Memory issues
- Muscle weakness
- Nausea
- Seizures
- Vision loss
This type of tumor is typically benign (non-cancerous). However, its treatments can be rigorous and costly. Patients can recover these costs with an insurance claim or lawsuit.
What Brand of Depo-Provera Causes Brain Tumors?
Pfizer manufactures Depo-Provera under the brand names Depo‐Provera and Depo‐SubQ Provera. Its authorized generic versions include:
- A‐S Medication Solutions
- Greenstone LLC
- Pharmacia & Upjohn Company LLC
- Prasco Laboratories
- Preferred Pharmaceuticals Inc.
You can hold the drug manufacturer financially liable for its failure to disclose the risks of Depo-Provera fully. Consider contacting a law firm in your area to learn more about your rights, the drug companies’ responsibilities, and your financial recovery options.
Does Depo-Provera Cause Cancer?
According to a 1989 British Medical Journal (BMJ) study, scientists established a possible link between Depo-Provera users and an increased risk of breast cancer. Research centered around medroxyprogesterone acetate, the active ingredient in Depo-Provera.
Researchers noted the increased risk of developing breast cancer in younger women (under 25 years old). The increase was also more notable in women who received Depo-Provera injections for two years or more.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), breast cancer symptoms include:
- Lumps in the breast
- Changes in breast size
- Changes in breast shape
- Abnormal nipple discharge
Seek medical care immediately if you use Depo-Provera and notice any of these symptoms. Continue receiving care and track your treatment plan and expenses.
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Can You Get Compensation if Depo-Provera Was Unsafe for You?
Florida law firms are building mass tort claims against the makers of Depo-Provera. By joining one, you can request a range of recoverable damages, including:
- Medical bills: Diagnostic tests, hospitalization, medication, surgeries, radiation, and other required medical care until you recover.
- Income loss: Lost wages from all income sources during your treatment and recovery period, including your loss of future earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for the physical discomfort of your treatment and recovery and the emotional toll you experience.
If a lawyer handles your compensation request, they can accurately assess and document your recoverable damages. They can also guide you through the settlement negotiation process and fight for maximum financial recovery.
Is There a Time Limit for Filing a Depo-Provera Lawsuit?
The sooner you get a lawyer involved in your case, the better. In Florida, you generally have two years to file a personal injury lawsuit. In addition to meeting the filing deadline, early intervention gives your attorney sufficient time to investigate your claims, consult experts, and build the strongest possible evidence collection.
The statute of limitations can be challenging to meet on your own. When you hire a lawyer, they can file your lawsuit on time and in the appropriate venue.
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(855) 529-0269Learn More About Your Rights if Depo-Provera Was Unsafe for You
If you or a loved one was diagnosed with an adverse medical condition following the use of Depo-Provera for birth control, you could be entitled to compensation. Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers will assess your case and take on the insurance company for you.
Learn more about the safety of taking Depo-Provera and the product warnings and disclosures you should have received. Contact our consultation team today for your free claim review.
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Has Pfizer Taken Depo-Provera off the Market?
No, Pfizer has not taken Depo-Provera off the market. The birth control drug is still available by prescription in the U.S., although the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted and revoked permission for its use several times. Many women use it with minimal side effects. However, scientists have connected long-term use to numerous medical...
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Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop in or on the ovaries. Some women who took the Depo shot as a method of birth control could have an increased risk of ovarian cysts. Others may experience the opposite effect—the Depo-Provera shot’s active ingredient (medroxyprogesterone acetate) could prevent the formation of ovarian cysts. Your doctor should...
What Are Symptoms of Meningioma From the Depo Shot?
If you’ve used the Depo-Provera shot (also known as medroxyprogesterone acetate) as a form of hormonal birth control, you may be suffering from potentially debilitating symptoms associated with meningioma. These symptoms can range from blurred vision to seizures. If you’ve taken this injectable contraceptive over an extended period and developed meningioma, a Depo-Provera lawsuit lawyer...
What Are the Long-Term Risks of Using Depo-Provera?
Depo-Provera, a contraceptive injection, is known for its convenience and effectiveness in preventing pregnancy. However, long-term use of Depo-Provera carries certain health risks that should be carefully considered. Recently, concerns have emerged regarding a risk of developing meningioma, a type of brain tumor, in those using Depo-Provera. If you or a loved one have been...