Major Legal Development: Depo-Provera Cases Centralized into MDL
In a significant advancement for individuals alleging harm from the contraceptive Depo-Provera, the U.S. Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) has consolidated numerous lawsuits into a single federal case, known as a Multidistrict Litigation (MDL). As of March 2025, over 70 Depo-Provera lawsuits have been filed in federal courts across the country, with legal experts projecting that the total number could rise into the thousands given the drug’s popularity.
The MDL, assigned to Judge M. Casey Rodgers in the Northern District of Florida, aims to streamline pretrial proceedings, eliminate duplicative discovery, and create a more efficient process for both plaintiffs and the manufacturer. By centralizing these cases, the court system seeks to expedite the litigation process and ensure consistent rulings on key legal and scientific issues.
Riddle & Riddle Injury Lawyers are actively investigating these claims, and we are ready to help however we can. Please call 1-800-525-7111 for a FREE case review. There are no upfront costs, and we don’t get paid unless you do.
Why Are Depo-Provera Lawsuits Being Filed?
Plaintiffs in these lawsuits allege that Depo-Provera, a widely used injectable contraceptive containing medroxyprogesterone acetate, has been linked to an increased risk of developing intracranial meningiomas — noncancerous but potentially dangerous brain tumors. Other non-cancerous tumors, such as certain other brain tumors and spinal tumors, may also be linked.
According to legal filings, long-term use of Depo-Provera may significantly elevate the risk of these tumors, leading to severe health complications such as:
- Persistent headaches, vision problems, and seizures
- Cognitive impairment and memory loss
- The need for invasive brain surgeries or ongoing medical treatment
Despite these claims, the manufacturer of Depo-Provera strongly denies any liability or wrongdoing, asserting that the drug has been rigorously tested, properly labeled, and remains safe when used as prescribed. No final rulings have been made, and the outcome of these cases remains uncertain, with no guarantees of potential settlements or compensation for plaintiffs.
What the MDL Means for Plaintiffs
The creation of an MDL does not mean that a class-action lawsuit has been formed. An MDL is different from a class action. In an MDL, each lawsuit remains separate, but certain pretrial procedures — such as evidence gathering and expert witness testimonies — are handled collectively. This approach benefits plaintiffs by:
- Speeding up the legal process: Individual lawsuits can take years, but MDLs help streamline discovery, motions, and pre-trial hearings.
- Reducing costs for plaintiffs: Shared resources in MDLs allow for more efficient legal proceedings.
- Providing consistent rulings: A single judge oversees the pretrial process, ensuring uniformity in key legal decisions.
In late February 2025, Judge Rodgers identified five "pilot cases" for early trial proceedings, known as bellwether trials. These cases will serve as a test to gauge how juries may respond to the evidence and arguments presented. While bellwether trials do not determine the outcome of all cases, they often influence settlement discussions and the overall direction of litigation.
Who Qualifies for a Depo-Provera Lawsuit?
If you or a loved one has been affected by Depo-Provera and are considering legal action, it's essential to understand the specific criteria that may qualify you for a Depo-Provera lawsuit.
- Use of Depo-Provera or qualifying generic alternative (at least twice): You or your loved one must have received brand-name Depo-Provera injections—or another qualifying generic alternative—at least twice.
- Diagnosis of cerebral meningioma, other brain tumor, or spine tumor, after use of Depo-Provera (or qualifying generic alternative): A confirmed diagnosis of cerebral meningioma, other brain tumor (cancerous or non-cancerous), or spinal tumor, typically determined through imaging tests such as an MRI or CT scan.
- Documented Evidence: Medical and prescription records, as well as a detailed timeline of Depo-Provera use and the onset of symptoms, are crucial for building a strong case.
Contact Riddle & Riddle Injury Lawyers
If you meet these criteria, contact Riddle & Riddle today at 800-525-7111 for a free case review. Our experienced legal team is actively investigating these claims and can help you understand your legal options. With the recent formation of the MDL, now is the time to explore your rights and potential avenues for justice.
When Justice Counts™, the team at Riddle & Riddle Injury Lawyers is ready to help. Since 2000 alone, we’ve recovered over $850 million in compensation for our valued clients (see disclaimer below). We strive to treat our clients like family and are ready to listen and advise you on your potential Depo-Provera claim.
📞 Call now for your free consultation.