Dozens of lawsuits over Ozempic and related drugs will be sent to a federal judge in Philadelphia, PA. Those drugs, historically prescribed for type 2 diabetes have recently gained in popularity as an off-label weight loss drug.
There are predictions that the courts can see over 10,000 lawsuits related to glucagon-like peptide-1, or GLP-1 receptor agonists, including Ozempic, Wegovy, Trulicity and Mounjaro, against pharmaceutical companies Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly.
The prescription medications went viral on social media, while celebrities publicly announced they used GLP-1 medications to assist with weight loss. The lawsuit alleges that both companies failed to warn that the medications increase the risk of a dangerous condition called gastroparesis or stomach paralysis, leading to nausea, vomiting and hospitalizations. The labels caution users about potential gastrointestinal issues among other side effects, but the lawsuits claim that the warnings have downplayed the severity of stomach issues and potential complications. Novo Nordisk claims the side effects are mild to moderate and of short duration. It’s important to note, every Ozempic lawsuit filed to date is due to someone using the drug and developing gastrointestinal issues.
Gastroparesis is a chronic condition where the nerves and muscles of the stomach wall severely weaken, which makes it more difficult for the stomach to transfer food to the small intestine. This can result in blockages or obstruction. Gastroparesis cannot be cured, only managed medically and surgically. This means that anyone who has developed this condition could potentially face a lifetime trying to manage its effects.
There are other side effects that can potentially come into play in these lawsuits. Current data suggests there may be a link between semaglutide and suicidal ideation. It has been reported that 150 people nationwide reported suffering suicidal thoughts while taking the medication.
The Journal of the American Medical Association published studies that found a link between these medications and an increased risk of gallbladder disease. A 2022 review of 76 studies confirmed the associations with gallbladder disease.
Other Ozempic side effects include fatigue, dizziness, hypoglycemia, flatulence, headaches, constipation, nausea, diarrhea and vomiting, as well as risk of gallbladder disease and gastroparesis and potentially suicidal ideation.
If you have concerns about your GLP-1 medication that you are using to support your weight loss efforts, call the attorneys at Comitz Law at 570-829-1111 or email info@comitzlaw.com.