Recent stories about the link between Depo-Provera and meningioma brain tumors has prompted women across the United States to ask an important question: does the risk of cerebral tumors increase the longer you use the birth control shot? 

Recent U.S. research suggests that duration of use and age at exposure may play a meaningful role in meningioma risk. At the same time, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has updated safety labeling to include warnings about meningioma. 

If you or a loved one used Depo-Provera and were later diagnosed with a meningioma brain tumor, understanding the latest medical findings is critical to understanding your options. 

Find out more about your legal rights by contacting the lawyers at Hissey Mulderig & Friend toll-free at 1-866-806-8117, or by completing our free Depo-Provera contact form on the right side of this page. 

What Is Depo-Provera?

Depo-Provera is the brand name for depot medroxyprogesterone acetate, an injectable hormonal contraceptive given every three months. It has been widely used in the United States for decades as a long-acting form of birth control. 

There are two primary formulations: 

• Depo-Provera CI, administered intramuscularly 
• Depo-subQ Provera 104, administered subcutaneously 

Both contain medroxyprogesterone acetate, a synthetic progestin. 

What Is a Meningioma?

A meningioma is a tumor that forms in the meninges, the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. Most meningiomas are classified as benign, but they can still cause serious health problems depending on size and location. 

Common symptoms of meningioma brain tumors may include: 

• Persistent headaches 
• Vision changes 
• Seizures 
• Memory problems 
• Weakness or numbness 

What Does New U.S. Research Say About Duration of Use?

A large U.S.-based study published in 2025 in JAMA Neurology examined the association between depot medroxyprogesterone acetate and meningioma risk. Researchers evaluated exposure duration and age at use. 

The study found that prolonged use was associated with a higher relative risk of meningioma compared to non-users. Risk appeared to increase with longer cumulative exposure. Older age at exposure was also associated with greater risk. 

This research builds on earlier international findings suggesting that extended exposure to certain progestins may influence meningioma development. 

Does Risk Increase With Longer Depo-Provera Use?

Based on current research, the duration that a woman has used Depo-Provera appears to affect her risk of developing meningioma brain tumors. 

Key findings from recent studies suggest: 

• Longer cumulative exposure may increase relative risk. 
• Risk may rise after multiple years of repeated injections. 
• Older age at the time of exposure may be associated with higher risk. 
• Tumor growth may slow or stabilize after discontinuation in some cases, although this varies. 

These findings are consistent with broader research into hormone-sensitive meningiomas. The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies many meningiomas as progesterone-receptor positive, meaning they may respond to hormonal stimulation. 

What Did the FDA Change?

In December 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration updated the prescribing information for Depo-Provera to include warnings about meningioma. 

The revised label warns that women who use the Depo shot may face an increased risk of brain tumors, and advises clinicians to discontinue Depo-Provera if a meningioma is diagnosed and to evaluate risks and benefits carefully in patients with a history of meningioma. 

The addition of a meningioma warning reflects increasing regulatory attention to the issue. 

Does Stopping Depo-Provera Reduce Risk?

Research suggests that some hormone-associated meningiomas may stabilize or shrink after discontinuation of hormonal exposure. However, this is not guaranteed and depends on individual tumor characteristics. 

Women experiencing neurological symptoms should consult a physician promptly for evaluation and imaging. 

Who Qualifies to File a Depo-Provera Meningioma Lawsuit?

Women who used Depo-Provera may qualify to file a lawsuit if they meet the following general criteria: 

• You received Depo-Provera, Depo-subQ Provera 104, or generic medroxyprogesterone acetate birth control shots. 
• You were diagnosed with a cerebral meningioma brain tumor. 
• Your diagnosis occurred after one or more years of Depo use (typically meaning four shots. 

Each case is unique. Eligibility depends on medical records, duration of use, timing of diagnosis, and other individualized factors. 

If you have questions about whether you may qualify to take legal action, contact Hissey Mulderig & Friend to talk with one of our lawyers about your case. 

Why Duration and Age Matter in Litigation

The growing body of research focusing on duration of exposure and age at use may become central issues in litigation. 

Plaintiffs’ claims often involve: 

• Multi-year Depo-Provera use. 
• Diagnosis after prolonged exposure. 
• Significant medical intervention. 
• Allegations of inadequate warning prior to updated labeling. 

As research evolves, duration-based risk analysis may play an increasingly important role in both scientific and legal evaluation. 

What Should You Do If You Used Depo-Provera and Were Diagnosed With Meningioma?

If you used Depo-Provera for an extended period and were later diagnosed with meningioma brain tumors, consider the following steps: 

1. Obtain your medical records. 
2. Document your Depo injection history. 
3. Consult with a physician about tumor classification and treatment history. 
4. Speak with an attorney experienced in pharmaceutical litigation. 

Understanding duration of use and age at exposure is now more important than ever. 

Speak With a Depo-Provera Meningioma Lawyer

New U.S. research suggests that longer use of Depo-Provera may increase relative risk of meningioma, particularly with extended exposure and older age at use. 

Hundreds of lawsuits have already been filed against the makers of the birth control shot by women with meningioma. If you or a loved one developed a meningioma brain tumors after using Depo-Provera, you may have legal options. 

Find out whether you qualify to file a Depo-Provera meningioma lawsuit by contacting the law firm of Hissey Mulderig & Friend. There are no fees unless our firm wins your case. 

You can speak with a lawyer by calling our office toll-free at 1-866-806-8117, or by filling out our free case evaluation form, which is located at the top of this page.