A hormone drug called DMPA and the risk of meningioma
Original title: Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate and the risk for developing an intracranial meningioma.
How far along is this research?
- Lab cells
- Animals
- Review
- Tested in people
This looks across many earlier studies rather than running a new one.
This is a review of past studies, not a new result or a new treatment.
The short version
Using the hormone drug DMPA for a long time may raise the risk of a meningioma, but the number of cases is very low.
What was studied. The authors looked back at past studies from 2018-2026 on DMPA and meningioma. Meningioma is a tumor that grows inside the head.
What they found. The studies mostly found that the risk goes up the longer a person uses DMPA. Long use gives the body more of a hormone called progestin, for longer. Still, the real number of meningioma cases tied to DMPA is very low.
What this means, and what it doesn't
What it could mean: If you use DMPA for a long time, it may help to talk with your doctor about this risk. DMPA also has real benefits. It treats endometriosis and painful periods. It may also lower the risk of some cancers of the womb and ovaries.
What it doesn't mean: This does not mean DMPA will cause a tumor. Cases are very rare. This is a review of past studies, not a new test. It does not tell anyone to stop a drug. Do not stop or change any medicine without talking to your doctor. The authors say more research is needed to weigh the risks and benefits.
Source: PubMed, September 21, 2026 · Read the original
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