Bayer HealthCare is facing a growing multidistrict litigation (MDL), with one of the most recent additions from a California woman who filed a Mirena pseudotumor cerebri lawsuit.

According to the Mirena pseudotumor cerebri lawsuit, the young woman began experiencing painful headaches and similar side effects soon after having the contraceptive implanted.

Plaintiff Ashley M. is filing the Mirena pseudotumor cerebri lawsuit, alleging the manufacturing company failed to disclose these potential side effects. Ashley also alleges the company failed to disclose the fact that the primary ingredient in the IUD (intrauterine device) was linked to several serious complications, which includes pseudotumor cerebri (PTC).

According to the Mirena pseudotumor cerebri lawsuit, Ashley had the Mirena IUD implanted on Sept. 2, 2011 without any initial complications. Ashley opted for the long term contraceptive after reviewing the company’s marketing materials and discussing the options with her doctor.

Before the device was implanted, Ashley was not warned against any serious side effects and had no reason to be vigilant against any unusual symptoms. Even though Ashley used the device for its intended purpose, she soon began suffering serious headaches and was eventually diagnosed with pseudotumor cerebri on July 20, 2012.

Ashley opted to file legal action after discovering the hormone utilized in the device may increase the risk of pseudotumor cerebri.

Overview of Mirena Pseudotumor Cerebri Correlation

Ever since the release of the Mirena IUD in the 2000s, it has been prescribed to over two million women in the United States alone. The device’s popularity stems from its longevity, which is meant to prevent pregnancy for up to five years.

The Mirena IUD is a small T-shaped device which is directly implanted in the uterus of the patient. The device prevents sperm to egg fertilization by releasing small daily doses of a synthetic hormone, levonorgestrel, from the copper end points of the device.

While levonorgestrel has proven to be very effective in preventing pregnancy, it has been linked to serious side effects like pseudotumor cerebri. Also known as idiopathic intracranial hypertension, this condition occurs when cerebrospinal fluid levels increase significantly and the body cannot keep up with the filtration process.

Cerebrospinal fluid is constantly cycled through the body. When cerebrospinal fluid production outpaces the body’s filtration, a buildup occurs inside the skull and creates tumor like symptoms.

The nature of these symptoms had caused PTC to earn the name pseudotumor, or “false tumor,” and can be incredibly painful for patients. Oftentimes this condition can be treated, but patients should consult their physicians as soon as possible to prevent any long term damage.

Mirena patients who may be suffering pseudotumor cerebri should be vigilant for any odd symptoms, including but not limited to:

• Headaches
• Migraines
• Dizziness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Changes in vision
• Ringing or “whooshing” sound in ears
• Problems walking
• Neck stiffness
• Forgetfulness
• Depression

Ashley’s Mirena pseudotumor cerebri lawsuit is being filed into a specialized MDL, in which it will stand alongside other claims alleging similar side effects.

This Mirena Pseudotumor Cerebri Lawsuit is Case No. 1:17-cv-05771-UA, in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York.