Ozempic Lawsuit | Ozempic and Wegovy Claims
- Last Updated: September 20th, 2023
Key takeaways:
- Ozempic and Wegovy, used for diabetes management and weight loss, are under investigation for causing stomach paralysis.
- An Ozempic Lawsuit and other legal actions are being explored for patients who suffered stomach paralysis after using these drugs.
- While no FDA warnings exist for Ozempic and Wegovy, there are warnings for their compounded versions.
Ozempic Lawsuit Overview
On this page we’ll discuss the potential of an Ozempic Lawsuit, what drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy are designed to do, side effects associated with Ozempic, who may qualify for an Ozempic Lawsuit, and much more.
Intro to the Ozempic Lawsuit & Stomach Paralysis Claims
Ozempic is an FDA approved drug originally used to improve blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes, but has been popularize for weight loss.
Wegovy is an FDA approved drug used for chronic weight management in adults with obesity.
These drugs, or compounded versions of these drugs, may be linked to severe gastroparesis (stomach paralysis), gallbladder disease, cyclic vomiting syndrome, and other serious medical conditions.
Stomach paralysis is a condition affecting nerves and muscles in the stomach, interfering with the process that moves food through the stomach and into the small intestine.
Symptoms and side effects of stomach paralysis can be painful, uncomfortable, and may lead to long-term health problems.
Gallbladder disease involves conditions like gallstones and inflammation (cholecystitis), which can cause discomfort and may require gallbladder removal.
Legal action is being investigated for these symptoms and injuries.
If you or a loved one used Ozempic, Wegovy, or compounded versions of the drugs, and subsequently developed gallbladder disease, stomach paralysis (gastroparesis), cyclic vomiting syndrome, or other related health problems, you may be eligible to file an Ozempic Lawsuit claim.
Contact TruLaw for a free consultation.
You can also use the chatbot on this page for an instant case evaluation.
Table of Contents
Ozempic and Wegovy Lawsuit Investigation
New reports have indicated that a number of patients who used Ozempic and Wegovy, or compounded versions of these drugs, for weight loss have experienced serious side effects.
Stomach paralysis, a condition that affects nerves and muscles in the stomach, has been reported in multiple users of semaglutide products, specifically Ozempic and Wegovy.
Legal action is being investigated for users of Ozempic and Wegovy for these serious side effects.
If you or a loved one used Wegovy, Ozempic, or compounded versions of the drug for weight loss and subsequently developed gastroparesis, you may be eligible to file a legal claim.
Contact TruLaw for a free consultation.
You can also use the chatbot on this page for an instant case evaluation.
Our law firm is committed to helping people injured at no fault of their own seek compensation for what they’ve experienced.
Visit this page for further updates as our attorneys investigate this potential litigation.
FDA Warnings on Ozempic and Wegovy
The FDA has not yet produced warnings on the use of brand-name Ozempic and Wegovy for serious side effects, but the agency has released a warning on the use of compounded versions of the drug.
The FDA has received reports of adverse events related to compounded semaglutide products, claiming compounding pharmacies may be using salt forms of semaglutide, which are different active ingredients from those used in the FDA approved versions of Ozempic.
In addition to the FDA’s safety information page on Ozempic for weight loss, the FDA wrote to the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy about the agency’s concerns regarding the use of semaglutide salts in compounded versions of the drug.
What is the Controversy with Ozempic?
Ozempic is intended to be prescribed to diabetes patients.
Patients are required to meet medical criteria in order to obtain a valid Ozempic prescription.
Wellness clinics, compounding pharmacies, medical spas, and more have been prescribing Ozempic and compounded versions of the weight loss drug to people who do not meet criteria for prescriptions, potentially putting them at risk for serious side effects.
Novo Nordisk has even filed lawsuits against medical spas, wellness clinics, and weight loss clinics for selling illegally compounded versions.
Accusations in the lawsuit include false advertising, unfair competition, and trademark infringement.
There has been considerable media attention on Ozempic’s ability to help people shed weight in short amounts of time.
The New Yorker Magazine shed light on Ozempic’s rise in popularity among celebrities and influencers, and highlighted the drug’s potential to revolutionize how obesity and diabetes are treated.
What is Ozempic?
Ozempic is a popular diabetes drug that has been touted as a “miracle medication” used to maintain weight loss and control diets.
Ozempic (generic name: semaglutide) belongs to a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists.
Initially approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2017, Ozempic was primarily designed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
Injected weekly, its main purpose is to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes, helping them manage their glucose levels and reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications.
GLP-1 receptor agonists, like Ozempic, work by mimicking the action of GLP-1 hormones, which naturally occur in the body and regulate insulin release in response to food intake.
By activating the GLP-1 receptors, Ozempic promotes insulin production, suppresses glucagon secretion (a hormone that raises blood sugar levels), slows down gastric emptying, and reduces appetite.
These actions contribute to better glycemic control in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Ozempic and Weight Loss
Beyond its intended use for diabetes management, Ozempic has garnered attention for its potential in aiding weight loss.
Ozempic has been widely popularized by celebrities, influencers and social media trends, with Variety Magazine dubbing the drug:
“The worst kept secret in Hollywood.”
Produced by Danish pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk, Ozempic
During clinical trials, some patients treated with Ozempic experienced significant weight loss compared to those receiving a placebo or other diabetes medications.
The exact mechanisms through which Ozempic induces weight loss are not fully understood, but it is believed to be a combination of reduced appetite, delayed gastric emptying, and potential effects on the brain’s reward system, leading to lower food intake and increased feelings of satiety.
Ozempic Side Effects
Ozempic has been linked to a number of side effects in patients.
These side effects include, but are not limited to:
- 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)
- 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)
- Gastroparesis (delayed emptying of the stomach)
Ozempic Stomach Paralysis (Gastroparesis)
One significant concern is the risk of gastroparesis, a condition characterized by delayed emptying of the stomach.
Gastroparesis occurs because Ozempic, like other GLP-1 receptor agonists, slows down the rate at which the stomach empties its contents.
While this can be beneficial for diabetes management and weight loss, it can also lead to complications in some individuals.
Symptoms of gastroparesis may include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Bloating
- Feelings of fullness after only eating small amounts of food
- Persistent stomach pain
- Pain in the upper abdomen
- Heartburn
In severe cases, gastroparesis can lead to malnutrition and other digestive issues.
It is crucial for individuals prescribed Ozempic to be aware of these potential side effects and report any symptoms of gastroparesis or other adverse reactions to their healthcare provider promptly.
Patients should work closely with their healthcare team to monitor their response to the medication and adjust the dosage if necessary.
Ozempic and Gallbladder Disease
Scientific evidence has linked Ozempic usage and gallbladder disease, particularly gallstones.
An initial meta-analysis indicated an elevated risk of gallbladder disease with Ozempic use.
A 2022 Research Letter, based on FDA data, provided conclusive evidence showing that Ozempic users faced a significantly increased risk of both gallstones and acute gallbladder disease.
The risk was found to be higher at higher doses, for prolonged periods, and when Ozempic was used for weight loss.
Gallbladder disease encompasses various conditions affecting the gallbladder, including gallstones (cholelithiasis), inflammation (cholecystitis), and cancer.
Cholecystitis, caused by blockage of the gallbladder’s exit tube, is a serious condition requiring immediate treatment to prevent potentially fatal complications, and the most common treatment is gallbladder removal.
Gallstones are solid deposits that form inside the gallbladder and can vary in size, categorized as cholesterol stones (more common) or pigment stones, formed from bilirubin, a byproduct of liver red blood cell breakdown.
Symptoms of gallbladder disease include:
- Abdominal pain, particularly in the upper right or center of the abdomen
- Pain that may radiate 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
Anesthesiologists have raised concerns about the hazards of stomach paralysis in patients taking GLP-1 agonist medications like Ozempic before surgery, as there’s little information about the risks associated with stomach slowdown on these drugs.
Stomach contents suctioned from a patient on a GLP-1 agonist showed the stomach was full despite following pre-surgery fasting instructions, leading to a risk of aspiration into the lungs, which can have severe consequences.
The American Society of Anesthesiologists recommends patients stop taking these medications one week before surgery, but the appropriate duration of fasting or discontinuation is not yet fully understood due to limited scientific evidence.
What is Wegovy?
Wegovy is a prescription medication designed to combat obesity and promote weight loss.
Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Wegovy is a higher-dose formulation of semaglutide, which was initially used for managing type 2 diabetes under the brand name Ozempic.
Recognizing its potential in aiding weight loss, researchers developed Wegovy as a dedicated treatment for obesity.
The higher-dose formulation of Wegovy for weight loss surpasses the doses used for diabetes management, harnessing the potential for even greater weight reduction.
In studies, patients treated with Wegovy achieved significant weight loss compared to those receiving a placebo, making it a promising option for individuals struggling with obesity.
Potential for Serious Side Effects: Gastroparesis, Gallbladder Disease, and More
Like Ozempic, Wegovy and its compounded versions, may potentially slow down gastric emptying, leading to gastroparesis.
The medication may also be linked to gallbladder disease.
Patients prescribed Wegovy should be vigilant in monitoring their response to the medication and report any signs of stomach paralysis or other adverse effects to their healthcare provider promptly.
As with any medication, it is crucial for individuals to have open communication with their healthcare team to address any concerns and ensure their well-being throughout the weight loss journey.
What are Compounded Drugs?
Ozempic and Wegovy are both on the FDA drug shortage list.
FDA approved semaglutide medicines
Drug makers have produced compounded versions of Ozempic and Wegovy to combat this shortage.
Compounded versions of drugs are often prescribed when a patient cannot take commercially available medications due to specific allergies, intolerances, or dosage requirements.
In regard to Ozempic and Wegovy, compounding pharmacies have produced alternatives due to the drug shortage.
Compounded drugs, often hailed as a solution during severe drug shortages, come with a slew of inherent dangers that cannot be ignored.
Why are Compounded Drugs Made?
When legitimate pharmaceuticals are scarce due to manufacturing issues, supply chain disruptions, or discontinuation, compounding pharmacies step in to create custom-made medications.
The availability of compounded drugs might seem like a saving grace, but patients should proceed with caution.
Unlike commercially manufactured medications, compounded drugs often lack rigorous testing and quality control measures.
As a result, patients may receive medications of varying potency, purity, and effectiveness, leading to unpredictable health outcomes.
Do You Qualify for the Ozempic Lawsuit?
The Ozempic Lawsuit and Wegovy Lawsuit are potential litigations.
Our attorneys are investigating the potential for litigation on behalf of patients who took these drugs and subsequently developed stomach paralysis and other serious injuries.
If you or a loved one used Ozempic or Wegovy for weight loss and subsequently developed gastroparesis (stomach paralysis) or other related stomach problems, you may be eligible to file an Ozempic Lawsuit claim.
Contact TruLaw Law for a free consultation.
You can also use the chatbot on this page for an instant case evaluation.
Our Ozempic Lawyers will help you throughout the legal process, completing necessary steps like gathering evidence and assessing damages.
If you are experiencing stomach paralysis symptoms, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Mitigation is another crucial part in a successful legal claim.
Gathering Evidence for the Ozempic Lawsuit
Evidence is important in product liability lawsuits, especially for a drug as popular and scrutinized as Ozempic.
Evidence in a potential Ozempic Lawsuit claim may include:
- Medical records
- Doctor’s notes
- Prescription records
- Receipts of purchase
- Witness testimony
- Photos and videos
- Personal testimony
- Any other evidence detailing your use of Ozempic and/or Wegovy and subsequent health problems
Your attorney will help you gather relevant evidence, but you can begin this step on your own to best prepare yourself for legal action.
Assessing Damages in the Ozempic Lawsuit
Damages refer to the total amount of losses, economic and non-economic, related to an incident or the use of a dangerous drug.
Potential damages in an Ozempic Lawsuit may include:
- Medical bills
- Future medical expenses
- Lost wages or earning ability
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional damages
- Lost quality of life
- Permanent disability
- Other compensatory and punitive damages
Your Ozempic Lawyer will help you assess and calculate total damages to be included in your legal claim.
Mitigating Injuries for an Ozempic Lawsuit
Mitigation is another crucial part of a successful legal claim.
Mitigating injuries refers to taking action to lessen the impact of Ozempic on your body and life.
Discuss halting use of the drug with a doctor, and explain the symptoms you are experiencing for documentary purposes.
It is also recommended to pursue treatment that your medical professional recommends.
It’s essential that you show proof of attempts to improve your condition.
TruLaw: Investigating the Ozempic Lawsuit
As mentioned, our legal team is investigating the potential safety concerns of Ozempic and Wegovy and strategizing potential legal action against manufacturers for putting consumer health at risk.
If you or a loved one used Ozempic and/or Wegovy, or compounded versions of the drugs, and subsequently developed gastroparesis (stomach paralysis) or other related health problems, you may be eligible to file an Ozempic Lawsuit claim.
Contact TruLaw Law for a free consultation.
You can also use the chatbot on this page for an instant case evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Is There an Ozempic Lawsuit?
The Ozempic Lawsuit is a potential litigation.
Ozempic and other similar semaglutide drugs may be linked to gastroparesis (stomach paralysis), gallbladder disease, cyclic vomiting syndrome, and other serious conditions.
The reasons for filing an Ozempic lawsuit may be based on the following key points:
- Consumers were allegedly not sufficiently warned about certain side effects and potential for injury.
- Users of Ozempic, who were later diagnosed with related stomach and gallbladder injuries may be eligible to file a claim.
- Insufficient warning labels on Ozempic and other semaglutide medications (like Wegovy) are claimed to put users at unnecessary risk for certain injuries.
Insufficient Warning About Potential Side Effects
Ozempic lawsuit claims may center around allegations that consumers who took the drug were not sufficiently warned about certain side effects.
These side effects and medical conditions include stomach paralysis, gallbladder disease, cyclic vomiting syndrome, and other stomach problems.
Eligibility to File a Lawsuit
Users of Ozempic, Wegovy, or other semaglutide medications who were later diagnosed with stomach and gallbladder injuries may be eligible to file a claim.
Dangerous drug lawsuits typically aim to pursue compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Insufficient Warning Labels
Many dangerous drug lawsuits claim that the warning labels on medications are insufficient, putting users at unnecessary risk.
Ozempic lawsuits could be potentially filed by people who suffered injuries such as gallbladder disease, stomach paralysis, or cyclic vomiting syndrome.
To conclude, the reasons for filing an Ozempic lawsuit are primarily based on allegations of insufficient warning about potential side effects, the eligibility of patients with related health issues to file a lawsuit, and claims of insufficient warning labels on the medication.
The outcome of these lawsuits could have significant implications for the manufacturer and potentially for the wider pharmaceutical industry.
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Is There a Lawsuit Against Ozempic and Wegovy?
The potential lawsuits against Ozempic and Wegovy for causing Gallbladder Disease and Stomach Paralysis may be based on the following key points:
- Some patients using Ozempic and Wegovy have reported severe gastroparesis (stomach paralysis) gallbladder disease, and cyclic vomiting syndrome.
- Lawsuits claim that consumers were not sufficiently warned about potential side effects, including damage to the gallbladder.
- Users of Ozempic, Wegovy, or other semaglutide medications who were later diagnosed with related gallbladder or bile duct issues may be able to file a lawsuit.
- The Ozempic lawsuits claim that the semaglutide injections can cause acute gallbladder disease.
Reports of Severe Gastroparesis
A recent investigation has found that some patients using Ozempic and Wegovy have suffered from severe gastroparesis, also known as stomach paralysis.
This is a serious condition that can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life and requires medical intervention.
Insufficient Warning About Potential Side Effects
Allegations in Ozempic lawsuits may include claims surrounding whether consumers were not sufficiently warned about the potential side effects of these medications, including damage to the gallbladder.
A lack of sufficient warning could potentially lead to unexpected health issues for patients using these drugs.
Eligibility to File a Lawsuit
Users of Ozempic, Wegovy, or other semaglutide medications who were later diagnosed with related gallbladder disease, gastroparesis, or cyclic vomiting syndrome, or bile duct issues may be eligible to file a claim.
Dangerous drug lawsuits typically aim to pursue compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Claims of Acute Gallbladder Disease
Ozempic semaglutide injections may cause acute gallbladder disease.
This is a serious condition that can lead to severe pain and other complications, and may require surgical intervention.
Consumers may be eligible to file claims against Ozempic and Wegovy related to Gallbladder Disease and Stomach Paralysis.
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Is Ozempic Approved for Weight Loss?
Ozempic has not been approved by the FDA for weight loss.
Wegovy, Ozempic’s “sister drug”, has been approved for weight loss in obese patients.
There has been a significant uptick in off-label use of Ozempic for weight loss in people who are not obese or diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.
Wellness clinics, compounding pharmacies, medical spas, and more have been prescribing Ozempic to people who do not meet criteria for prescriptions, putting them at risk for serious side effects.
Unlawful sales practices regarding Ozempic may also be dwindling the supply of the drug.
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What is the Active Ingredient in Ozempic?
The active ingredient in Ozempic is semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist used to treat Type 2 diabetes and, more recently, approved as an anti-obesity medication under the name Wegovy.
-
What is a Compounded Drug?
A compounded drug is a medication often designed to meet specific individual needs or meet demand due to supply chain issues.
Compounded drugs are typically made by mixing different ingredients or altering the dosage form of an existing medication.
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Is Ozempic Recalled?
No, Ozempic is not recalled.
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What Kind of Doctor Prescribes Ozempic?
Ozempic is typically prescribed by internal medicine specialists, endocrinologists, or healthcare providers specializing in diabetes obesity medicine.
Ozempic has also been reportedly administered at weight loss clinics, wellness clinics, medical spas, and other facilities.
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What are the Rare Side Effects of Ozempic?
Rare side effects of Ozempic include hair loss, renal failure, pancreatitis, intestinal obstruction, gallbladder disease, chronic vomiting syndrome, and gastroparesis, among others.
-
What is Gastroparesis?
Gastroparesis, commonly known as stomach paralysis, is a condition characterized by delayed emptying of the stomach, leading to digestive issues, nausea, and other symptoms.
-
What is Gallbladder Disease?
Gallbladder disease refers to a range of conditions affecting the gallbladder, including gallstones and inflammation (cholecystitis).
It can cause abdominal pain, nausea, and other digestive issues, and in severe cases, may require surgical removal of the gallbladder.
-
What is Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome?
Cyclic vomiting syndrome is a rare disorder characterized by recurrent, severe episodes of vomiting with no apparent cause.
These episodes can last for hours or even days, and they are usually followed by symptom-free periods.
Experienced Attorney & Legal SaaS CEO
With over 25 years of legal experience, Jessie is an Illinois lawyer, a CPA, and a mother of three. She spent the first decade of her career working as an international tax attorney at Deloitte.
In 2009, Jessie co-founded her own law firm with her husband – which has scaled to over 30 employees since its conception.
In 2016, Jessie founded TruLaw, which allows her to collaborate with attorneys and legal experts across the United States on a daily basis. This hypervaluable network of experts is what enables her to share reliable legal information with her readers!
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