The claim period is now passed (March 1, 2022) and no further claims are being accepted. The Claims Administrator is currently analyzing and processing the claims filed. A Notice of Decision will be sent to individuals that filed a claim once the claims analysis is complete.
On December 13, 2005, Siskinds filed a class proceeding against Pfizer Canada Inc. and Pfizer Inc. with respect to Depo-Provera. Depo-Provera is typically prescribed to prevent pregnancy; however, it is also used to treat endometriosis and as a palliative treatment of certain cancers. Use of Depo-Provera has been associated with an increased risk of significant bone mineral density loss, including a significantly increased risk of developing osteoporosis at ages below the statistical norm.
On May 28, 2008, the Superior Court of Quebec certified the action on behalf of a National Class.
On May 11, 2021, a Settlement Agreement was reached between the Representative Plaintiff in the Quebec action and Pfizer on behalf of a class of “Every person domiciled in Canada who used Depo-Provera and claims to be suffering or to have suffered a loss of bone mineral density owing to the use of Depo-Provera before May 31, 2010.”
On November 1, 2021, the Québec Court approved the Settlement and a Compensation Protocol for evaluating class member claims. Eligible claimants had until March 1st, 2022 to file a claim form.
You can find more information about the settlement at www.depoprovera.ca or by contacting the claims administrator at 1-888-667-5012.
Siskinds is working cooperatively with the Quebec firm of Belleau Lapointe LLP.
FAQs
What is a class action?
A class action is a lawsuit that is brought by one or more person on behalf of a larger group of people whose claims share common legal and/or factual issues. Class actions provide a cost-effective way for groups of people with common interests to pursue a legal claim.
What does “certification” mean?
Certification is the motion where the court determines whether the action can properly be pursued as a class action. The court will consider factors such as whether the claims of the class members raise common legal and/or factual issues and whether a class action is the preferable method of pursuing the claims (as opposed to other methods, such as individual actions).
Do I have to pay anything to participate in the class action?
Class action lawyers are usually paid on a contingency basis. This means that class counsel are only paid if successful. Class counsel are paid a percentage of any settlement or court award. Class counsel fees are subject to court approval.
Who is covered by the Depo-Provera class action?
You are a Class Member if:
a) you took Depo-Provera before May 31, 2010; and
b) you claim to have suffered a bone mineral density loss (osteopenia or osteoporosis) before May 31, 2010; and
c) you were a resident of Canada during the time you took Depo-Provera.
All Class Members will be releasing Pfizer as part of the Settlement Agreement. The criteria to receive compensation are more stringent than the criteria to be a Class Member. To read the eligibility criteria go to the settlement website: www.depoprovera.ca
What should I do to protect my rights?
The Claims Filing Deadline is now expired; we will not be able to assist you if you used Depo-Provera.
I still have a question. Who should I contact?
Collectiva, Class Action Services Inc.
2170 René-Lévesque Boulevard West, Suite 200
Montréal, QC H3H 2T8
Email: [email protected]
Toll-free: 1-888-667-5012