Hormonal Birth Control and Menopause Medication Linked to Brain Tumors

A new study warns of a heightened risk for brain tumors from contraceptive injections and medications such as Depo-Provera.

Hormonal medications, including those used for birth control and menopause management, have been linked to an increased risk of certain brain tumors, such as meningiomas. These tumors are usually benign but can cause serious health issues, depending on their size and location. The risk appears to be related to long-term use of these medications.

About the study

The study involved 108,366 women in total. Of those, 18,061 women who underwent intracranial surgery for meningioma between January 1, 2009, and December 31, 2018, comprised the case group. Each case was paired with five controls, resulting in 90,305 women in the control group. The researchers collected detailed information on the participants’ demographic characteristics, medical history, and history of progestogen use.

Per The Guardian, “Progestogens are similar to the natural hormone progesterone. They are used in contraceptives, for gynecological conditions such as endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome, and in hormone replacement therapies used during the menopause.”

The results of the study revealed that prolonged use of certain progestogens was associated with an increased risk of intracranial meningioma. Specifically, researchers found that the use of medrogestone, medroxyprogesterone acetate (brand-name Depo Provera), and promegestone for more than twelve months significantly elevated the risk. However, no association was observed between the use of progesterone, dydrogesterone, or levonorgestrel intrauterine systems and the risk of intracranial meningioma.

The study also examined the potential impact of factors such as age at initiation of progestogen use, duration of use, and type of progestogen on the risk of intracranial meningioma. While some of these factors were found to influence the risk, the overall findings consistently pointed to a link between prolonged use of specific progestogens and an elevated risk of this condition.

The authors of the study concluded that the findings provide evidence supporting a causal association between prolonged use of certain progestogens and the risk of intracranial meningioma. They emphasized the importance of considering this risk when prescribing progestogens, particularly for women with a family history of meningioma or those who require long-term treatment.

In a statement, Pfizer, the manufacturer of Depo-Provera, said, “We are aware of this potential risk associated with long-term use of progestogens and, in collaboration with regulatory agencies, are in the process of updating product labels and patient information leaflets with appropriate wording.”

What is intracranial meningioma?

Intracranial meningioma is a type of brain tumor that originates from the meninges, the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. While most meningiomas are benign, meaning they are not cancerous, they can still cause significant problems if they grow large or press on nearby structures.

Symptoms of a meningioma often depend on its location but can include:

• Headaches
• Seizures
• Vision changes (e.g., blurred or double vision)
• Weakness or numbness in one side of the body
• Hearing loss or ringing in the ears
• Changes in personality or behavior

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for evaluation.

How are intracranial meningiomas diagnosed and treated?

Intracranial meningiomas are typically diagnosed through imaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans. These scans provide detailed images of the brain, allowing doctors to identify the location, size, and characteristics of the tumor. In some cases, a biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis, where a small sample of the tumor tissue is removed and examined under a microscope.

Treatment depends on the size, location, and symptoms caused by the tumor. The options include:

• Observation: For small, asymptomatic meningiomas, regular monitoring with periodic imaging may be sufficient.
• Surgery: Surgical removal is often recommended for symptomatic meningiomas, especially if they are easily accessible. The goal is to remove as much of the tumor as possible.
• Radiation Therapy: This may be used after surgery to target any remaining tumor cells or as the primary treatment for tumors that cannot be surgically removed. Stereotactic radiosurgery, a precise form of radiation, is often used for this purpose.
• Medication: In some cases, medications may help manage symptoms. Certain drugs may also target specific molecular pathways involved in tumor growth.
• Follow-up: Regular follow-up with imaging and clinical assessments is crucial to monitor for tumor recurrence or progression.

The choice of treatment is individualized based on the patient’s overall health, the specific characteristics of the tumor, and the potential risks and benefits of the treatment options.

How our Phoenix personal injury attorneys can help

If you developed an intracranial meningioma, our Phoenix personal injury attorneys can provide experienced support in the following ways:

• Identifying Liability: We investigate whether the tumor may be linked to exposure to harmful medication and determine who is legally responsible.
• Filing a Claim: We help you file a personal injury claim or lawsuit against the liable parties seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
• Expert Consultation: Our attorneys collaborate with medical experts to strengthen your case by demonstrating the connection between exposure to medication and meningioma.
• Insurance Negotiation: We handle negotiations with insurance companies, ensuring you receive a fair settlement that covers your medical and financial needs.
• Litigation: If it is not possible to reach a fair settlement, we are prepared to take your case to court to fight for the compensation you deserve.

By providing legal guidance and representation, we aim to help you secure the financial resources needed to manage your condition and move forward with your life.

If you or a loved one has developed an intracranial meningioma and believe it may be linked to your birth control or menopause medication, don’t wait—contact the Phoenix personal injury attorneys at Plattner Verderame PC today. We are committed to investigating your case, identifying liable parties, and fighting for the compensation you deserve to cover your medical costs, lost wages, and more. Let us handle the legal complexities so you can focus on your health and recovery. Reach out for a free consultation and take the first step towards justice. Call our offices or complete our contact form to start discussing your case and learning about your legal options today. We offer free consultations at our Phoenix or Tempe offices.