GLP-1 Receptor Agonist

Ozempic Lawsuits

Generic: SemaglutideManufacturer: Novo Nordisk

What is Ozempic?

Ozempic (semaglutide) is a once-weekly injectable prescription medication manufactured by Novo Nordisk. It was initially approved by the FDA in 2017 for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. The medication belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonists, which work by mimicking the effects of a naturally occurring hormone that regulates blood sugar levels and appetite.

How Ozempic Works

Ozempic works by stimulating insulin secretion when blood sugar levels are high, suppressing glucagon production, and slowing gastric emptying. It is this last effect — slowing the movement of food through the stomach — that has been linked to serious gastrointestinal injuries in some patients.

The Link to Severe Injuries

While Ozempic has been effective for many patients in managing blood sugar and promoting weight loss, it has been associated with severe, sometimes permanent injuries:

Gastroparesis: Also known as stomach paralysis, this condition causes food to remain in the stomach for extended periods, leading to severe nausea, vomiting, bloating, and malnutrition. In some cases, the condition is irreversible.
Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas that can be life-threatening and may require hospitalization.
Bowel Obstruction: Complete or partial blockage of the intestines that may require surgical intervention.
Gallbladder Disease: Including gallstones and inflammation that may require surgical removal of the gallbladder.

Legal Claims Against Novo Nordisk

Thousands of patients who suffered injuries from Ozempic have filed lawsuits against Novo Nordisk, alleging that the company failed to adequately warn about the risks of gastroparesis and other severe gastrointestinal side effects. These claims are being consolidated into multi-district litigation (MDL) to streamline the legal process.

If you or a loved one took Ozempic and developed gastroparesis, pancreatitis, or another serious injury, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Known Side Effects

Gastroparesis (stomach paralysis), Acute Pancreatitis, Bowel Obstruction/Ileus, Gallbladder Disease, Severe Nausea and Vomiting, Kidney Failure

FDA Warnings

The FDA has issued safety communications regarding Ozempic and the risk of gallbladder disease, pancreatitis, and gastrointestinal disorders. In September 2023, the FDA updated the Ozempic label to include warnings about ileus (bowel obstruction). The agency has also received thousands of adverse event reports related to gastroparesis.

Legal Status

Multi-district litigation (MDL) is forming to consolidate Ozempic injury claims in federal court. Thousands of lawsuits have been filed against Novo Nordisk alleging failure to warn about gastroparesis and other severe side effects. The first bellwether trials are expected to begin in 2025.