Call Today for a FREE Confidential Case Review
Toll-Free 24/7 (866) 920-0753

Nexplanon Benign Intracranial Hypertension Lawsuit

tsf-no-longer-accepting-cases

Lawsuits have been filed by women who used hormonal birth control and developed Benign Intracranial Hypertension (BIH). Although health experts warn that birth control may be a risk-factor for BIH, lawsuits accuse drug-makers of downplaying information about this side effect. Unfortunately, delayed diagnosis increases the risk of complications like blindness and migraine headaches.

What is Nexplanon?

Nexplanon (a newer version of Implanon) is a type of hormonal birth control implant that is sold by Merck & Co. It is approved by the FDA to prevent pregnancy for up to three years. Nexplanon works by releasing tiny amounts of etonogestrel, a synthetic version of the hormone progestin.

Nexplanon and Benign Intracranial Hypertension

No one knows if Nexplanon causes Benign Intracranial Hypertension (BIH), but experts do know that the condition is not “benign” (harmless). Intracranial hypertension means “high pressure inside the skull.” This condition is caused by elevated levels of cerebrospinal fluid.

Complications

BIH can cause severe migraine headaches because it puts pressure on the brain. The most serious complication is blindness, which occurs because the optic nerve is damaged. Less serious vision problems include decreased peripheral vision, papilledema (swelling of the optic disc), blind spot enlargement, blurry vision, and double-vision, which are reported by about 90% of patients.

What is the problem?

Nexplanon is very similar to Norplanon, a subcutaneous birth control implant that contains levonorgestrel. In 1995, a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine identified 56 cases of BIH in women on Norplanon.

Other types of birth control have also been associated with BIH. In recent years, a number of lawsuits have been filed by women who accuse drug-makers of downplaying risk information linking birth control implants, such as Mirena, with this side effect.

Nexplanon and Headaches

Headaches are a common side effect of birth control, and clinical trial data suggests that 25% of women on Nexplanon will develop headaches or migraines. Headaches are also a sign of BIH, although the two conditions are not necessary related. Even so, women on Nexplanon who have severe headaches should have a medical evaluation.

Blood Clots

All hormonal contraceptives increase the risk of blood clots, but some have higher risks than others. In 2012, researchers found a 40% increased risk of blood clots associated with subcutaneous birth control implants. Blood clots in the brain can potentially cause secondary intracranial hypertension by blocking the normal flow of cerebrospinal fluid in the skull.

Free Case Evaluation


The Schmidt Firm, PLLC has been recognized as one of the nation’s leading plaintiffs' law firms and handles cases in all 50 states. We are very proud of our legal achievements, but equally self-respecting of our firm's reputation for providing personal attention to each and every client we represent.

No matter what type of case you have, you may contact us with confidence by filling out the email contact form below or calling us directly by dialing toll free 24 hrs/day (866) 920-0753.