UK law firms are investigating potential legal action against pharmaceutical company Pfizer on behalf of women who allege they developed brain tumours after using the contraceptive injection Depo-Provera. The move follows similar litigation already underway in the United States, where thousands of women are suing Pfizer for compensation.
Depo-Provera, a high-dose synthetic progesterone, is administered every three months as a form of contraception and to manage certain menstrual symptoms. Approximately 3.1% of women aged 15-49 in the UK use injectable contraception, according to UN calculations, representing a significant user base.
The legal scrutiny stems from multiple studies indicating a higher relative risk of meningiomas – typically benign brain tumours – in women who have used Depo-Provera. Although the overall risk remains low, these tumours can cause a range of debilitating symptoms, including seizures, blindness, hearing loss, headaches, and memory problems.
Several UK law firms have publicly stated their intention to explore claims against Pfizer. Austen Hays confirmed it is evaluating potential clients, while Fletchers’ website is actively soliciting individuals with relevant experiences. Leigh Day stated it is in the preliminary stages of assessing the legal grounds for a case.
“We have been approached by at least 30 women who have developed meningiomas following prolonged use of Depo-Provera,” said Chaya Hanoomanjee, a partner at Austen Hays. “Their lives have been considerably impacted… with consequences such as loss of vision and, in one case, a woman having to terminate her pregnancy. The duty here lies with Pfizer to ensure a drug is safe and to update warnings and contraindications as soon as new risks become known.”
Jill Paterson, a partner at Leigh Day, echoed these concerns. “We have been aware for some time of the concerns that have been raised in relation to Depo-Provera. We know the devastating impact meningiomas can have on women’s lives and are assessing the strength of any potential case of those affected. We are investigating the potential for a legal claim against the manufacturer and hope to be able to have a clear position on this soon.”
In the United States, a federal case is progressing, representing around 2,500 women. The first trial is scheduled for December. Lawyers representing the plaintiffs allege that Pfizer was aware of the potential link between Depo-Provera and meningiomas as early as 2015 but failed to adequately warn patients, medical professionals, or the Food and Drug Administration.
Sandra Somarakis, a plaintiff in the US lawsuit, shared her experience. She took Depo-Provera for approximately 15 years before being diagnosed with a meningioma in 2008, requiring multiple surgeries and radiation treatment. “Women shouldn’t have to live with what I’ve gone through,” she stated. “There has to be consequences.” Somarakis continues to experience significant health issues, including difficulty opening her mouth and persistent eye problems, as well as cognitive difficulties.
In the UK, Claire Buck, 47, believes Depo-Provera may have contributed to her meningioma diagnosis. She underwent brain surgery and now has a metal plate in her skull. “I nearly died,” she said, describing the aftermath of the operation. Buck now lives with chronic pain, glaucoma, hearing and memory problems, and significant anxiety.
Emma, 57, who took Depo-Provera for 15 years until 2019, was diagnosed with meningiomas in 2024 after experiencing seizures. While she has physically recovered from surgery, she now suffers from fatigue, memory loss, and concerns about potential recurrence.
Pfizer maintains that patient safety is its top priority and that Depo-Provera has a well-established safety profile, having been used by millions of patients in over 60 countries for the past 30 years. A spokesperson for the company stated, “We conduct rigorous and continuous monitoring of all our medicines… in collaboration with health authorities around the globe.” Pfizer advises individuals with concerns to consult their doctor, pharmacist, or nurse.
