UK Law Firms Explore Legal Action for Women with Brain Tumours Linked to Contraceptive
UK law firms are exploring potential legal action on behalf of women who have developed brain tumours after using the contraceptive injection Depo-Provera. This high-dose synthetic progesterone is prescribed for contraception and managing menstrual symptoms, administered via injection every three months. According to UN data, approximately 74 million women worldwide and 3.1% of UK women aged 15-49 use injectable contraception.
Multiple studies have revealed that women taking Depo-Provera face a significantly higher risk of developing meningiomas, though the overall risk remains relatively low. These benign tumours, typically non-cancerous, can lead to severe complications such as seizures, blindness, hearing loss, headaches, and memory issues.
Several law firms are now considering legal action against Pfizer in the UK. Austen Hays has identified potential clients, Fletchers is actively seeking clients, and Leigh Day is in the early stages of assessing the legal grounds for any case. Chaya Hanoomanjee, a partner at Austen Hays, stated that they have been approached by at least 30 women who developed meningiomas following prolonged Depo-Provera use.
These women's lives have been significantly impacted by brain tumours, resulting in consequences like vision loss and, in one case, a woman having to terminate her pregnancy. Hanoomanjee emphasised Pfizer's responsibility to ensure drug safety and promptly update warnings and contraindications as new risks emerge.
Jill Paterson, a partner at Leigh Day, acknowledged the concerns surrounding Depo-Provera and the devastating impact of meningiomas on women's lives. The firm is assessing the strength of potential cases for affected individuals.
The potential UK legal cases coincide with thousands of women suing Pfizer for compensation in the US. Three law firms are leading a federal case, representing approximately 2,500 women, with the first trial scheduled for December. The lawyers argue that Pfizer was aware of the meningioma risk since at least 2015 but failed to adequately warn patients, medical professionals, and the US regulator, the Food and Drug Administration.
Pfizer contests the litigation, denying liability. The health impacts of meningioma can be severe. Sandra Somarakis, one of the women suing Pfizer in the US, suffered from long-term use of Depo-Provera. She endured surgery, radiation treatment, and ongoing health issues, including vision problems and memory loss.
In the UK, Claire Buck, 47, believes the jab may have contributed to her meningioma and is considering legal action against Pfizer. She focuses on raising awareness, emphasising the impact on her teenage daughter. Buck's experience includes brain surgery and ongoing symptoms like muscle shrinkage, glaucoma, and memory problems.
Emma (not her real name), 57, also believes Depo-Provera may have contributed to her meningiomas, diagnosed in 2024 after developing seizures. She took the injection for 15 years until 2019 and now suffers from fatigue and memory issues, fearing the tumours might return and lead to brain cancer or vision loss.
Pfizer's spokesperson emphasised patient safety, citing rigorous monitoring of medicines and collaboration with health authorities. They highlighted Depo-Provera's approval in over 60 countries, established efficacy, and safety profile over the past 30 years, serving as a treatment option for millions of patients.
