Women prescribed Depo Provera (medroxyprogesterone acetate) in Green Bay and surrounding Wisconsin communities are seeking legal recourse for alleged severe side effects and complications associated with this injectable contraceptive medication. The lawsuits center on claims that manufacturer Pfizer failed to adequately warn patients and healthcare providers about potential risks, including significant bone density loss, osteoporosis, and fractures. These product liability claims have gained particular attention in Brown County following reports of women experiencing medical complications after long-term Depo Provera use. Personal injury claims in these cases often involve complex medical documentation, expert testimony regarding pharmaceutical standards, and detailed analysis of the manufacturer's compliance with FDA warning requirements. The cases may also examine the role of healthcare providers in prescribing and monitoring patient use of the medication, making these multi-faceted pharmaceutical liability cases that can involve multiple defendants.

Here are the significant injuries and adverse effects that have been documented in connection with Depo-Provera usage:

Major Bone and Skeletal Issues:

• Significant bone mineral density loss, especially concerning during peak bone-building years
• Increased risk of osteoporosis
• Higher susceptibility to bone fractures
• Weakening of bone structure that may not be fully reversible

Reproductive System Effects:

• Irregular menstrual bleeding or complete loss of periods
• Prolonged period of infertility after discontinuation
• Delayed return to fertility
• Ectopic pregnancy risk if pregnancy occurs while using

Metabolic and Weight-Related Issues:

• Substantial weight gain
• Changes in appetite
• Altered glucose tolerance
• Fluid retention

Psychological Effects:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Mood changes
• Memory problems

Cardiovascular Concerns:

• Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis)
• Pulmonary embolism
• Increased risk of stroke
• Changes in blood pressure

Additional Physical Effects:

• Severe headaches
• Hair loss or unusual hair growth
• Abdominal pain and bloating
• Fatigue and weakness
• Vision problems
• Allergic reactions

Long-Term Health Risks:

• Potential increased risk of certain cancers
• Lasting changes to menstrual cycle
• Persistent bone density issues even after discontinuation
• Increased risk of developing diabetes

These injuries may form the basis for product liability claims, particularly if patients weren't adequately warned about these risks before starting the medication. 

Legal Rights and Considerations

Wisconsin follows the "strict liability" doctrine in product liability cases, meaning manufacturers can be held liable for defective products regardless of negligence. Under Wisconsin Statute § 893.54, victims generally have three years from the date of injury discovery to file a product liability lawsuit. However, the "discovery rule" may extend this timeline if the connection between Depo Provera and the injury wasn't immediately apparent. Wisconsin's comparative negligence law (Wis. Stat. § 895.045) allows plaintiffs to recover damages even if partially at fault, as long as their responsibility doesn't exceed 51%. Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term care costs. Product liability insurance and pharmaceutical company policies typically come into play, though cases often involve complex coverage disputes. An experienced Wisconsin Depo-Provera injury claim lawyer will handle all aspects of the legal claim.

Related Resources

Local Courts:

• Brown County Circuit Court
• United States District Court, Eastern District of Wisconsin (Green Bay Division)

Support Services:

• Wisconsin Drug Information Service
• Wisconsin Women's Health Foundation
• Osteoporosis Support Group of Northeast Wisconsin
• Patient Advocate Foundation - Wisconsin Office

Legal and Medical Resources:

• Wisconsin Department of Health Services Drug Information
• FDA Adverse Event Reporting System
• Wisconsin State Bar Association Referral Service
• Wisconsin Board of Pharmacy Regulations
• Wisconsin Medical Society

Return to the Green Bay product liability information page