- Last Updated: March 28th, 2024
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Ozempic Lawsuit Overview
On this page, we’ll discuss an overview of the Ozempic Lawsuit, what Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro (and similar drugs) are designed to do, side effects associated with taking Ozempic, who may qualify for an Ozempic Lawsuit, and much more.
About the Ozempic and Stomach Paralysis Claims
Ozempic is a drug that has received approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to lower blood sugar levels in adults suffering from type 2 diabetes.
Recently, it has gained popularity as a weight loss supplement.
Wegovy, another FDA-approved medication, is primarily prescribed for chronic weight management in adults who are obese.
Ozempic and Mounjaro both use the active ingredient semaglutide.
There are concerns that these medications, or their compounded variations, may be associated with severe gastroparesis, also known as “stomach paralysis”.
Other potential health concerns linked to these drugs include gallbladder disease and cyclic vomiting syndrome, among other serious medical conditions.
Ozempic and Wegovy Lawsuit Investigation
Gastroparesis, also known as stomach paralysis, is a medical condition that affects the gastrointestinal nerves and muscles in the stomach.
This disrupts the process of food transportation from the stomach to the small intestine.
The symptoms and side effects of severe gastrointestinal events and complications (like gastroparesis) can cause discomfort and pain, potentially leading to serious health issues.
Gallbladder disease encompasses conditions such as gallstones and cholecystitis, which is inflammation of the gallbladder.
These conditions can cause discomfort and may necessitate the removal of the gallbladder.
There is currently an investigation into legal action relating to these symptoms and injuries.
If you or a family member has used Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, or any compound versions of these drugs, and subsequently developed gallbladder disease, gastroparesis, cyclic vomiting syndrome, or any other related health complications, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit claim involving Ozempic.
Keith’s Law Group is available for a free consultation.
You can also utilize the chatbot on this page for immediate evaluation of your case.
Please refer to this page for further updates as our legal team investigates this potential litigation.
Table of Contents
Lawsuit Updates
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March 21, 2024 Update:
The Ozempic and weight loss drug litigation is currently in preliminary stages, with expectations of an increase in lawsuits as legal frameworks for filings are established.
An escalating number of individuals are initiating legal actions against Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk, the manufacturers of GLP-1 agonists.
This class of drugs, encompassing Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus, Trulicity, and Mounjaro, is utilized for diabetes treatment and weight management.
Plaintiffs allege the development of serious gastrointestinal conditions, including gallbladder removal and gastroparesis, attributed to these medications.
The lawsuits are being consolidated in Philadelphia, overseen by U.S. District Judge Gene E. K. Pratter, due to commonalities in the claims regarding adverse drug reactions.
Novo Nordisk, responsible for Ozempic and Wegovy, is the primary target of these lawsuits, with the potential for cases to reach into the thousands as more individuals report injuries.
Despite these allegations, Novo Nordisk maintains that its GLP-1 medications are safe and effective, highlighting a 13-year market presence and thorough safety assessments conducted in partnership with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The litigation underscores the significant role of GLP-1 medications in the U.S. market, with projections indicating 30 million users by 2030 and sales exceeding $1 billion, underlining the critical stakes for both the pharmaceutical industry and individuals claiming harm from these drugs.
Individuals experiencing gastroparesis or other health issues following the use of Ozempic or other GLP-1 agonists may qualify to participate in the lawsuit.
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February 19, 2024 Update:
The Ozempic Lawsuit is evolving, with legal proceedings centered on severe gastrointestinal injuries allegedly caused by Ozempic and other GLP-1 receptor agonist medications.
As of the beginning of 2024, at least 55 lawsuits have been merged into multidistrict litigation (MDL) in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania by a federal panel.
These legal claims accuse Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly of not sufficiently warning users about the risk of serious side effects, such as gastroparesis (a condition that slows stomach emptying), intestinal obstruction, and additional gastrointestinal harm linked to these drugs.
The formation of an MDL is designed to make the legal process more efficient and to ensure uniform decisions across similar cases.
The plaintiffs contend that, although the drug packaging did include warnings, the companies minimized the seriousness of the gastrointestinal problems.
The MDL encompasses lawsuits concerning various medications, including Novo Nordisk’s products Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus, and Eli Lilly’s Trulicity and Mounjaro.
Lawyers specializing in Ozempic cases expect the number of lawsuits within the MDL to increase significantly.
A federal judge in Louisiana has mostly denied Novo Nordisk’s request to dismiss the lawsuit, particularly the allegations regarding insufficient warnings about the risk of gastroparesis, allowing these claims to proceed.
The legal challenges facing Ozempic and similar GLP-1 drugs emphasize the critical need for patients to be fully aware of the potential adverse effects of these medications, especially those with serious health consequences.
The consolidation of these lawsuits into an MDL highlights the increasing legal attention and concern over the alleged serious side effects of drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro.
If you or someone you know has experienced injuries after using Ozempic or comparable medications, you might have grounds for filing an Ozempic Lawsuit.
For further details or to check if you qualify for the Ozempic Lawsuit, please contact us or use the chatbot on this page for an immediate assessment.
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February 5, 2024 Update:
As of February 5, 2024, legal actions regarding Ozempic are still underway, with lawyers continuing to accept new cases.
The latest information from the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) reveals that seven lawsuits related to Ozempic have been consolidated into a Multidistrict Litigation (MDL).
In the United States, MDLs are specialized legal processes designed to handle multiple civil cases that have common elements, such as similar legal issues, facts, or defendants.
This method is particularly effective for managing several lawsuits filed by different parties about the same concerns, like health issues linked to Ozempic and similar drugs.
These associated cases are merged into one federal district court for the pre-trial stage.
The main goal of an MDL is to make legal processes more efficient.
The Ozempic Lawsuit is ongoing.
What is Ozempic?
The diabetes drug Ozempic, also known by its generic name semaglutide, is a widely recognized medication utilized for diabetes management and weight control.
This drug is part of the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists class of medications.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) initially gave its approval for Ozempic in 2017, with the primary intention of treating type 2 diabetes.
Administered on a weekly basis, Ozempic’s primary function is to enhance blood sugar regulation in adults diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.
This assists individuals in managing their glucose levels and minimizing the possibility of complications related to diabetes.
GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as Ozempic, function by emulating the effects of GLP-1 hormones, which are naturally produced in the body and control the release of insulin in response to food consumption.
Ozempic activates the GLP-1 receptors, which results in the promotion of insulin production, suppression of glucagon secretion (a hormone that elevates blood sugar levels), deceleration of gastric emptying, and appetite reduction.
Collectively, these effects lead to improved glycemic control in individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.
Ozempic as a Weight Loss Treatment
Ozempic, a pharmaceutical product intended for diabetes management, has also been recognized for its potential contributions as a weight loss drug.
In clinical trials, it was found that some patients who were administered Ozempic experienced a significant reduction in weight compared to those who were given a placebo or other diabetes medications.
The precise processes through which Ozempic contributes to weight loss are not entirely clear.
However, it is hypothesized that the drug may work by decreasing appetite, slowing down gastric emptying, and potentially influencing the brain’s reward system.
This could result in decreased food consumption and increased feelings of fullness.
FDA Warnings on Ozempic and Wegovy
The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not yet issued any warnings related to serious side effects from the use of the brand-name medications Ozempic and Wegovy.
However, the FDA has issued a warning regarding the use of compounded versions of these drugs.
The FDA has documented cases of adverse events associated with compounded semaglutide products.
The agency asserts that compounding pharmacies may be utilizing salt forms of semaglutide, which are different active ingredients compared to those used in the FDA approved versions of Ozempic.
Furthermore, the FDA has a dedicated patient safety information page for Ozempic for weight loss.
The FDA has also communicated with the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy expressing its concerns about the use of semaglutide salts in compounded versions of the drug.
The makers of Ozempic are also under investigation for the potential risk for suicidal thoughts after taking Ozempic.
An FDA spokesperson said that:
“If newly identified safety signals are identified, the FDA will determine what actions are appropriate after a thorough review of the body of evidence.”
Ozempic Common Side Effects
Ozempic, like many medications, may cause some side effects in patients.
These are typically mild to moderate in nature and can often be managed with the help of a healthcare professional.
Some of the most common side effects include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain
- Loss of appetite
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) when used in combination with other diabetes medications
- Injection site reactions (redness, swelling, or itching at the injection site)
Ozempic Adverse Side Effects
While less common, there are some serious potential side effects associated with Ozempic.
These are more severe and should be reported to a healthcare professional immediately.
These potential adverse side effects include:
- Gastroparesis (delayed gastric emptying)
- Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
- Gallbladder problems (including gallstones)
- Kidney problems
- Thyroid tumors in animal studies (the relevance to humans is uncertain)
- Allergic reactions (rare but possible, may include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing)
It’s important to remember that not everyone will experience these side effects and that the benefits of the medication often outweigh the potential risks.
Always consult with a healthcare provider when starting a new medication.
Stomach Paralysis (Gastroparesis)
A significant risk associated with Ozempic is the development of gastroparesis, a medical condition characterized by the stomach’s delayed emptying process.
Gastroparesis is a side effect of Ozempic and other GLP-1 receptor agonists, as these medicines slow the rate at which stomach contents are emptied.
While this effect can aid in managing diabetes and promoting weight loss, it can also result in adverse complications in some patients.
The symptoms of gastroparesis may include:
- Feelings of nausea
- Instances of vomiting
- Bloating
- Sensations of fullness after consuming small amounts of food
- Continuous stomach pain
- Pain located in the upper abdomen
- Heartburn
In its most severe form, gastroparesis can lead to malnutrition and other digestive complications.
It is of utmost importance for patients prescribed Ozempic to be cognizant of these potential side effects and to promptly report any symptoms of gastroparesis or other adverse reactions to their healthcare provider.
Patients are advised to work closely with their healthcare team to monitor their reaction to the medication and make necessary dosage adjustments.
Gallbladder Disease
There is a scientifically established connection between the use of Ozempic and gallbladder disease, specifically gallstones.
A preliminary meta-analysis has shown an increased risk of gallbladder disease associated with the use of Ozempic.
A Research Letter published in 2022, which utilized FDA data, definitively demonstrated that individuals using Ozempic have a significantly heightened risk of developing gallstones and acute gallbladder disease.
The risk was determined to be greater with higher doses, extended use (seen in patients using Ozempic for more than a year), and when Ozempic was utilized for weight reduction.
Gallbladder disease is a term that covers a range of conditions that impact the gallbladder, such as gallstones (cholelithiasis), inflammation (cholecystitis), and cancer.
Cholecystitis, which is caused by a blockage of the gallbladder’s exit tube, is a serious condition that necessitates immediate medical intervention to avoid potential life-threatening complications, with the most common treatment being gallbladder removal.
Gallstones are hard deposits that develop within the gallbladder and can vary in size.
They are classified as cholesterol stones (which are more prevalent) or pigment stones, which are formed from bilirubin, a waste product of the liver’s breakdown of red blood cells.
The symptoms of gallbladder disease include:
- Pain in the abdomen, especially in the upper right or center
- Pain that may spread to the back or right shoulder
- Nausea and vomiting
- Bloating and gas
- Indigestion and heartburn
- Belching
- Diarrhea or light-colored stools
- Fever and chills in case of infection
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) in severe cases
Before April 2022, the Ozempic warning label did not include gallbladder disease as a potential side effect.
Ozempic Use and Surgery
Concerns have been expressed by anesthesiologists regarding the potential dangers of gastric paralysis in patients who are administered GLP-1 agonist medications like Ozempic prior to undergoing surgery.
The crux of the issue lies in the lack of substantial information concerning the risks linked with a slowdown in stomach activity when these drugs are in use.
In a case where the stomach contents of a patient on a GLP-1 agonist were suctioned, it was observed that the stomach was still full.
This occurred in spite of the patient adhering to pre-surgery fasting guidelines, thus presenting a risk of aspiration into the lungs.
Such an event could lead to serious health complications.
The American Society of Anesthesiologists has issued a recommendation that patients cease the intake of these medications a week prior to surgery.
However, the most appropriate duration for fasting or discontinuation of the medication is yet to be definitively determined, due to the lack of extensive scientific evidence.
What are Compounded Drugs?
Ozempic and Wegovy are included in the FDA’s shortage list of drugs.
These are FDA-approved semaglutide medicines.
Due to this shortage, pharmaceutical manufacturers have created compounded versions of Ozempic and Wegovy.
Compounded drugs are typically prescribed when a patient is unable to consume commercially available medications due to specific allergies, intolerances, or dosage requirements.
In the case of Ozempic and Wegovy, compounding pharmacies have developed alternatives as a response to the shortage of these drugs.
However, it is important to note that compounded drugs, despite being viewed as a solution during significant drug shortages, carry inherent risks that should not be overlooked.
Why are Compounded Drugs Made?
Compounded drugs are produced when there is a shortage of standard pharmaceuticals.
This shortage may arise from issues related to manufacturing, disruptions in the supply chain, or discontinuation of certain medications.
In such scenarios, compounding pharmacies produce customized medications to meet the demand.
The utilization of these compounded drugs requires careful consideration by patients.
These medications, unlike their commercially manufactured counterparts, often do not undergo stringent testing and quality control procedures.
Consequently, the potency, purity, and effectiveness of these drugs may vary, potentially leading to unpredictable health outcomes for patients.
Do You Qualify for the Ozempic Lawsuit?
Lawsuits are being filed against the manufacturers of diabetes drugs such as Ozempic and Mounjaro.
The focus of these potential lawsuits is on the patients who have used these drugs and subsequently developed serious injuries, including stomach paralysis.
If you or someone you know has used Ozempic or Wegovy for the purpose of weight loss and later developed gastroparesis (stomach paralysis) or related stomach complications, you may be eligible to file a claim under the Ozempic Lawsuit.
Contact Keith Law Group for a free consultation.
An instant case evaluation can also be accessed via the chatbot on this webpage.
Our team of lawyers specializing in Ozempic cases will guide you through the legal process, taking care of essential steps such as gathering evidence and assessing damages.
Should you be experiencing symptoms of stomach paralysis, it is imperative that you consult with your doctor immediately.
Mitigation is a vital component in the success of a legal claim.
Gathering Evidence for the Ozempic Lawsuit
In product liability lawsuits, the role of evidence is significant, particularly in the case of a widely used and closely examined drug like Ozempic.
The following types of evidence may be pertinent in a potential Ozempic Lawsuit claim:
- Medical records
- Notes from your healthcare provider
- Records of prescriptions
- Proof of purchase receipts
- Statements from witnesses
- Photographic and video evidence
- Personal accounts
- Any additional evidence that illustrates your usage of Ozempic and subsequent health complications
Your legal representative will assist you in collecting the necessary evidence, however, you can initiate this process independently to ensure you are adequately prepared for any legal proceedings.
Assessing Damages in the Ozempic Lawsuit
Damages, in this context, denote the comprehensive sum of losses, both economic and non-economic, that are associated with an event or the utilization of a hazardous medication.
The following are potential damages that may be included in an Ozempic Lawsuit:
- Expenses related to medical treatment
- Anticipated future medical expenses
- Loss of income or earning potential
- Physical pain and emotional distress
- Psychological trauma
- Diminished quality of life
- Permanent incapacity
- Additional compensatory and punitive damages
Your legal representative specializing in Ozempic cases will assist you in determining and quantifying the total damages to be incorporated in your legal claim.
Mitigating Injuries for an Ozempic Lawsuit
Mitigation constitutes a vital component of a successful legal claim.
The term ‘mitigating injuries’ pertains to the implementation of measures to reduce the effects of Ozempic on one’s health and lifestyle.
It is advisable to consult with a medical professional about discontinuing the use of the medication, and to document the symptoms you are experiencing.
Pursuing the treatment recommended by your healthcare provider is also highly recommended.
It is of utmost importance to provide evidence of your attempts to ameliorate your condition.
Keith Law Group: Your Ozempic Lawyers
Our legal team is currently conducting an investigation into the potential health risks associated with the use of Wegovy, Ozempic, and Mounjaro.
Legal actions are being taken against the manufacturers for endangering the health of consumers.
These legal actions allege that pharmaceutical companies like Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly should have included more explicit warnings regarding the risks associated with their diabetes drugs.
If you or someone you care for has been prescribed Ozempic and/or Wegovy, or any compounded versions of these medications, and have since developed gastroparesis (a condition leading to stomach paralysis) or other related health issues, you may be eligible to submit a claim in the Ozempic Lawsuit.
Contact Keith Law Group for a free consultation and more information on Ozempic Lawsuit claims.
Use the chatbot for a free and confidential case evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is There an Ozempic Lawsuit?
The Ozempic Lawsuit is a prospective legal action.
Ozempic and similar semaglutide drugs might be associated with medical conditions such as gastroparesis (stomach paralysis), gallbladder disease, cyclic vomiting syndrome, and other serious conditions.
The key reasons for initiating an Ozempic lawsuit may include:
- Allegations that consumers were not adequately warned about specific side effects and the potential for injury.
- Individuals who have used Ozempic and were subsequently diagnosed with related stomach and gallbladder injuries may be qualified to file a claim.
- Claims that the warning labels on Ozempic and other semaglutide medications (like Wegovy) are inadequate, exposing users to unnecessary risk for certain injuries.
Insufficient Warning About Potential Side Effects
Claims in the Ozempic lawsuit may primarily revolve around allegations that consumers who used the drug were not adequately warned about specific side effects.
These side effects and medical conditions encompass stomach paralysis, gallbladder disease, cyclic vomiting syndrome, and other stomach-related problems.
Eligibility to File a Lawsuit
Individuals who have used Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, or other semaglutide medications and were later diagnosed with stomach and gallbladder injuries may be qualified to file a claim.
Lawsuits involving dangerous drugs typically seek compensation for the costs associated with their medical bills, past and future pain and suffering, and other damages.
Insufficient Warning Labels
Many lawsuits involving dangerous drugs allege that the warning labels on medications are inadequate, thereby exposing users to unnecessary risk.
Potential Ozempic lawsuits could be filed by individuals who have suffered injuries such as gallbladder disease, stomach paralysis, or cyclic vomiting syndrome.
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Is Ozempic Approved for Weight Loss?
Ozempic has not received approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the purpose of weight loss.
However, Wegovy, a drug closely related to Ozempic, has been given approval for weight loss purposes in patients who are obese.
It has been observed that there has been a significant increase in the off-label use of Ozempic for weight loss in individuals who are neither obese nor diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.
A variety of establishments, including wellness clinics, compounding pharmacies, and medical spas, have been prescribing Ozempic to individuals who do not meet the criteria for such prescriptions.
This practice potentially exposes these individuals to serious side effects.
In addition, illegal sales practices concerning Ozempic could potentially be depleting the drug’s supply.
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What is the Active Ingredient in Ozempic?
The primary active ingredient of Ozempic is semaglutide.
This substance is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, which is commonly utilized for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes.
More recently, it has received approval for use as an anti-obesity medication, marketed under the brand name Wegovy.
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What is Gallbladder Disease?
Gallbladder disease is a term that encompasses a variety of conditions that impact the gallbladder.
These conditions include, but are not limited to, gallstones and cholecystitis, which is inflammation of the gallbladder.
Symptoms of gallbladder disease often include discomfort in the abdomen, feelings of nausea, and other issues related to digestion.
In the most severe cases, it may be necessary to surgically remove the gallbladder.
If you or a loved one were diagnosed with gallbladder disease after using Ozempic, you may be eligible to file an Ozempic Gallbladder Lawsuit.
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What is Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome?
Cyclic vomiting syndrome is an uncommon condition, distinguished by recurring, intense bouts of vomiting that appear to have no discernible trigger.
These bouts of severe vomiting can persist for numerous hours or potentially even days, typically followed by periods free of any symptoms.
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