As of December 2025, the Depo-Provera label warns that prolonged use may increase the risk of intracranial meningioma and recommends stopping the drug if one is diagnosed. That warning applies to women currently using the injection and, because meningiomas develop over years, to women who used it in the past. This is general awareness information, not medical advice.
What a meningioma is
A tumor arising from the meninges, the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. Most are non-cancerous and slow-growing. Their danger comes from location and size: as they enlarge, they press on brain tissue, nerves, and blood vessels. Meningiomas carry progesterone receptors, which is the biological basis for the link to a progestin like DMPA.
Symptoms by location
Vision. Blurring, double vision, loss of peripheral vision, or a bulging eye. Tumors near the optic nerve or behind the eye are common in the DMPA cases.
Headache. New, persistent, often worse in the morning or when lying down. Different in character from previous headaches.
Hearing, smell, and balance. One-sided hearing loss, ringing, loss of smell, or unsteadiness.
Cognitive and mood. Memory problems, confusion, personality changes, or new seizures. Frontal tumors often present this way and are frequently misattributed.
The BMJ study found the elevated risk with more than a year of DMPA use. Women in that category with any persistent neurological symptom have a specific, documented reason to ask for imaging.
Direct2Attorney · Health AwarenessWho should talk to a doctor
Currently using Depo-Provera
Per the updated label- Discuss the meningioma warning with your prescriber
- Review duration of use and alternatives
- Report any symptoms above promptly
- Discontinue if a meningioma is diagnosed
Used it in the past
Especially a year or more- Know the symptoms
- Mention your DMPA history to any provider evaluating neurological complaints
- Ask whether imaging is appropriate
- Keep records of your use history
What to tell your provider
Say the words: “I used Depo-Provera for X years, and I understand the FDA has added a meningioma warning.” Many providers are not yet aware of the label change. An MRI with contrast is the standard test. If a meningioma is found, treatment ranges from monitoring to surgery depending on size, location, and symptoms, and the label recommends stopping DMPA.
What this means if you're considering a claim
A meningioma diagnosis after a year or more of Depo-Provera use is the core of the litigation, which reached a settlement in principle in June 2026. If you have been diagnosed, a free review can assess eligibility. If you have symptoms, see a doctor first; the legal question follows the medical one.
Diagnosed with a meningioma after Depo-Provera?
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Common Questions
That is a decision for you and your prescriber, weighing your contraceptive needs and duration of use. The label recommends discontinuation on diagnosis, not preventively.
The study found elevated risk with more than a year of use. Risk appears to increase with duration.
Some case reports describe stabilization or regression after stopping progestins. Discuss with your neurosurgeon.
Coverage depends on symptoms and your plan. Ask your provider to document the DMPA history and the label warning.
No. Direct2Attorney’s review is free, and participating law firms typically work on contingency, meaning fees are generally paid only if there is a recovery. Confirm fee terms in writing with the firm.
