‘I was on it for 3 years… where do I file??’
Posted on November 2, 2024, 8:06 am CDT
A class action lawsuit has reportedly been filed against Depo Shot following a recent study that unveiled serious health concerns. TikToker @marlenadeering1 shared her apprehensions about the findings after being a Depo Shot user for several years.
The text overlay in her video states, “Finding out the birth control I was on for 2 years (Depo Shot) is in a class action lawsuit right now for brain tumors but I can also file and receive money for being at risk and having consistent headaches since then.”
In her caption, she provocatively asks, “Is the brain tumor worth the money guys?”
What is Depo Shot?
Depo Shot, or Depo-Provera, is a contraceptive injection meant to be administered every three to four months. It contains progestin, a hormone that prevents ovulation. Specifically, the shot contains medroxyprogesterone acetate, a synthetic analogue of the naturally occurring hormone progesterone, as described by Planned Parenthood.
What about the Depo Shot lawsuit?
Concerns have arisen regarding medroxyprogesterone acetate, the active ingredient in Depo Shot. According to a study published in the BMJ, there is a significant association between the use of this contraceptive and the development of intracranial brain tumors. The study, conducted in France, analyzed data from 18,061 women who underwent surgery for a specific type of brain tumor. It found that women using medroxyprogesterone acetate for 12 months or more had a 5.6-fold increased risk of developing a brain tumor, as reported by Forbes.
While the tumor that may result from this medication is often benign, it can still pose serious health risks. Additionally, other potential side effects include blurred vision, seizures, headaches, and numbness, which explains why @marlenadeering1 mentioned her chronic headaches in the video.
The TikToker’s video has garnered considerable attention, accumulating nearly 10,000 comments and 10.7 million views as of Saturday morning.
@marlenadeering1 is the brain tumor worth the money guys 😍
What are viewers saying?
Viewers have expressed concerns similar to those of @marlenadeering1. Comments have varied widely:
“Wait WHAT I have no tumor but headaches every day…,” remarked one viewer.
“Not to mention it made me gain almost 100lbs in 3 months when I’ve never gained like that. Got off immediately,” another commented.
“Why is TikTok how I find this out,” questioned a different commenter.
“Nooo, this is the only contraception that’s worked for me! No periods, maintained my weight, helps endo symptoms but have noticed a huge increase in headaches lately and I never used to get them!” yet another user shared.
“I was diagnosed with a brain disorder called IIH, and I took Depo-Provera for two years from the time I was 16 to 18,” added another viewer.
The Daily Dot has reached out to @marlenadeering1 for comment via TikTok message and comment and to Depo Vera via email to get more information.
Join the Conversation
What are your thoughts on the findings related to the Depo Shot and the potential implications of the lawsuit? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below!
Interviewer: Welcome to the Time.news editorial segment. Today, we have an important discussion lined up about a pressing health topic: the recent class action lawsuit concerning the Depo Shot. Joining me is healthcare expert Dr. Emily Chen, who specializes in women’s health and reproductive medicine. Thank you for being here, Dr. Chen.
Dr. Chen: Thank you for having me! This is a crucial conversation that needs to be had.
Interviewer: Let’s dive right in. There’s been a lot of buzz on social media platforms like TikTok regarding the Depo Shot, especially after a user highlighted her concerns about potential brain tumors. Could you explain what the Depo Shot is and its intended use?
Dr. Chen: Absolutely. The Depo Shot, or Depo-Provera, is a contraceptive injection that women receive every three to four months to prevent pregnancy. It contains medroxyprogesterone acetate, a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone, which works by preventing ovulation.
Interviewer: Recent studies, including one published in the BMJ, have raised significant health concerns regarding this medication. What were the main findings of that study?
Dr. Chen: The study highlighted alarming associations between the use of medroxyprogesterone acetate and an increased risk of developing intracranial brain tumors. Specifically, women who had used the Depo Shot for at least 12 months were found to have a 5.6-fold increased risk of these tumors, which is quite concerning.
Interviewer: That’s a staggering statistic. Can you elaborate on the kinds of tumors that this study is referring to and their potential risks?
Dr. Chen: Certainly. The tumors associated with this medication are often benign, meaning they are not cancerous. However, they can still lead to serious health issues. Symptoms like chronic headaches, blurred vision, or even seizures can manifest, which are understandably frightening for those affected.
Interviewer: The TikToker, @marlenadeering1, raised a provocative question, asking if the risk of a brain tumor is “worth the money” from a potential lawsuit. How do you respond to that sentiment?
Dr. Chen: It’s important to approach such matters with sensitivity. The idea of financial compensation does not outweigh the severe health implications of enduring a condition like a brain tumor. Women’s health must be prioritized over financial gain. It’s crucial that people are aware of the potential risks before choosing their contraceptive methods.
Interviewer: Social media has played a role in amplifying these concerns. The TikTok video amassed millions of views. In your opinion, how can social media platforms impact public perception of medical treatments?
Dr. Chen: Social media can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it raises awareness and helps people find community support, like women sharing their health experiences. On the other hand, it can lead to misinformation and panic. It’s essential for public discourse to be grounded in scientific evidence, which is where healthcare professionals need to engage and clarify these issues.
Interviewer: That’s a valid point. As individuals consider their options, what recommendations do you have for those currently using the Depo Shot or considering it?
Dr. Chen: I recommend that anyone using the Depo Shot or contemplating it consult with their healthcare provider about the risks and benefits. It’s essential to have an open dialogue about contraceptive options and to explore alternatives if there are significant health concerns. Staying informed and advocating for one’s health is crucial.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Chen, for this enlightening discussion. It’s vital to keep patients informed about potential health risks while making choices for their reproductive health.
Dr. Chen: Thank you for bringing attention to this important topic. It’s essential to support women in making informed health decisions.
Interviewer: You’ve been listening to our conversation about the Depo Shot and the implications of recent findings. Stay tuned for more health updates here at Time.news.