A woman credits her decision to stop wearing fake eyelashes with potentially saving her life after concealing a brain tumor behind her eye that she attributes to long-term use of a contraceptive injection. Jenny Keepe, 34, was alerted to an issue with her right eye by her mother during a family gathering in June 2020. She had not noticed the change earlier because her extended eyelashes obscured her vision for years.
Following a routine eye examination a week later, Jenny was promptly referred to a hospital after opticians identified a suspicious area behind her right eye. An emergency MRI scan confirmed the presence of a benign brain tumor called a meningioma, prompting Jenny to undergo two surgeries to remove half of the mass.
Only after the procedures did Jenny learn about the potential link between meningiomas and prolonged use of medroxyprogesterone contraceptive injections, which she had been receiving since the age of 17. Shocked by this revelation, Jenny immediately ceased using the injection, and her tumor is now stable. She believes she should have been informed about the associated risks much earlier.
Post-radiotherapy, Jenny’s tumor remains stable, with annual scans monitoring its progress. Jenny regrets not being advised to discontinue the contraceptive injection sooner due to the potential dangers. She urges others to consider regular testing and discontinuing the injection after several years.
In October 2024, Pfizer and the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) acknowledged a slight heightened risk of meningioma with prolonged and high-dose usage of medroxyprogesterone. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) also listed meningiomas as a potential side effect and recommended discontinuation in case of diagnosis. Dr. Alison Cave of the MHRA emphasized the importance of patient safety and continuous monitoring of the drug’s safety profile.
Pfizer reassured the public of their commitment to patient safety and continuous monitoring of their medicines. They highlighted the long-standing efficacy and safety of medroxyprogesterone acetate, urging individuals to consult healthcare professionals if they have concerns or experience adverse effects. The patient information leaflet has been updated to reflect the potential risk associated with high-dose medroxyprogesterone acetate and meningioma.
