An Iowa woman has recently filed a product liability lawsuit against Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of the popular diabetes drug Ozempic. Melissa Huffman alleges in her complaint that the company failed to adequately warn users and the medical community about the potential risks and side effects of the medication. Specifically, Huffman claims that her use of Ozempic led to the development of gastroparesis, a condition characterized by a paralyzed stomach, resulting in severe vomiting, diarrhea, and extreme abdominal pain. This latest lawsuit adds to growing attention around Ozempic, its approved uses, off-label uses, and the alleged injuries associated with the drug.

Understanding Ozempic’s Uses

Ozempic, known generically as semaglutide, is a medication approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 agonists, which work by stimulating the release of insulin and reducing the release of glucagon, resulting in lower blood sugar levels. In addition to its primary use in managing diabetes, Ozempic has gained popularity in recent years due to its potential weight-loss benefits. This off-label use has contributed to its widespread prescription and increased market demand for the drug.

Off-Label Ozempic Use and Alleged Injuries

While Ozempic has been marketed as a safe and effective medication with minimal long-term side effects, concerns have been raised regarding its potential to cause severe gastrointestinal problems. Melissa Huffman’s recent lawsuit, along with similar claims brought by other users, asserts that Novo Nordisk downplayed the severity of these issues. Gastroparesis, also known as stomach paralysis, is one such condition that has been linked to the use of Ozempic. Gastroparesis is a disorder in which the stomach muscles do not function properly, leading to delayed gastric emptying and a range of symptoms such as persistent nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. 

Recent research has highlighted the increased risk of gastrointestinal issues, including gastroparesis, among Ozempic users, particularly those using the drug off-label for weight loss. One new research study from the University of British Columbia compared liraglutide, semaglutide, and bupropion-naltrexone users and found that the “use of GLP-1 agonists for weight loss compared with use of bupropion-naltrexone was associated with increased risk of pancreatitis, gastroparesis, and bowel obstruction […]” These findings provide additional evidence of an association between Ozempic and the development of serious side effects, such as stomach paralysis.

Failure to Warn and Alleged Negligence

In this latest Ozempic lawsuit, Huffman accuses Novo Nordisk of failing to provide adequate warnings to patients and prescribing physicians about the potential risks and side effects of Ozempic. The complaint alleges that Novo Nordisk was aware of the link between Ozempic and gastroparesis, citing clinical studies, case reports, and medical literature. Despite this knowledge, the lawsuit claims that Novo Nordisk continued to market and sell Ozempic without sufficient warning labels or precautions.

Furthermore, the lawsuit highlights the company’s aggressive advertising campaign, which allegedly downplayed the risks associated with the medication. Novo Nordisk is accused of spending millions of dollars on meals for prescribing doctors and luxury trips to incentivize them to promote and prescribe Ozempic to patients. The lawsuit argues that these practices demonstrate a disregard for patient safety and a prioritization of profits over the well-being of consumers.

FDA Warnings and Potential Lawsuit Centralization

In September 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning regarding the increased risk of intestinal blockages associated with Ozempic. The updated warning label specifically mentions the potential for ileus, a condition characterized by abdominal cramps, bloating, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and difficulty eating. This warning further supports the claims made in Huffman’s Ozempic lawsuit and adds to the growing concerns surrounding the safety of the medication.

On the same day Huffman filed her complaint, a group of plaintiffs filed a motion to centralize all Ozempic gastroparesis lawsuits throughout the federal court system. The goal of centralization is to consolidate similar cases to streamline the legal process, avoid conflicting pretrial rulings, and serve the convenience of the witnesses and parties involved. 

Ozempic Lawsuits Seek Compensation for Side Effects

Melissa Huffman’s lawsuit against Novo Nordisk sheds light on the potential risks and side effects associated with the use of Ozempic, particularly off-label as a weight-loss aid. Allegations of inadequate warning labels and aggressive marketing tactics raise concerns about the prioritization of profits over patient safety. As more individuals come forward with similar claims, it is anticipated that thousands more Ozempic lawsuits may be filed in the coming months and years.