Depo-Provera (medroxyprogesterone acetate) is an injectable contraceptive made by Pfizer. A major 2023 French study found that long-term Depo-Provera use was associated with significantly elevated risk of intracranial meningioma — a brain tumor. The MDL was formed in early 2024 in the Northern District of Florida. This is one of the fastest-growing mass torts currently in litigation.
Intracranial meningioma is the primary qualifying injury. The Traore et al. 2023 study (published in the British Medical Journal) is the key causation evidence, showing a 5.6-fold increased risk with long-term use. Progestins are known to stimulate meningioma growth through progesterone receptors. Strongest cases involve 5+ years of continuous use and a meningioma diagnosis requiring surgery.
MDL formed mid-2024 and is in early discovery phase. Bellwether selection expected 2026; first trials anticipated 2027. The 5.6x relative risk finding from the 2023 Traore BMJ study is the causation anchor. Pfizer has not made any settlement overtures.