Drug manufacturer Novo Nordisk faces yet another new lawsuit from an Ozempic user who alleges that she suffered severe side effects, including gastroparesis or stomach paralysis, after using the popular diabetes drug. This latest Ozempic gastroparesis lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of New York on December 1, 2023. The complaint adds to a growing number of legal actions against Novo Nordisk, highlighting concerns about Ozempic’s potential health risks.

What is Ozempic?

Ozempic, also known as semaglutide, is a prescription medication primarily used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. Ozempic helps regulate blood sugar levels by stimulating the production of insulin after meals. It can also induce weight loss in individuals with obesity, even those without diabetes. Due to its weight management effects, Ozempic has gained popularity recently as a diet drug.

Allegations of Severe Side Effects

In this latest Ozempic lawsuit, plaintiff Holly Jones alleges that she developed gastroparesis, a condition characterized by stomach paralysis and delayed gastric emptying, after using Ozempic. Gastroparesis can lead to severe vomiting, persistent diarrhea, indigestion, and excruciating pain. Jones alleges that Novo Nordisk failed to adequately warn consumers and the medical community about the risk of these severe side effects associated with Ozempic treatment.

According to her complaint, Jones was prescribed Ozempic in April 2022 as a treatment for type 2 diabetes, to control her blood sugar levels. She continued with the weekly injections through November 2022, at which point she began experiencing stomach paralysis symptoms like severe vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, stomach pain, and indigestion. Jones alleges in her claim that Novo Nordisk knew or should have known about the risk of Ozempic users developing gastroparesis and provided more adequate warnings about these potential side effects. 

Research Linking Ozempic to Gastroparesis

Several recent studies have linked the use of Ozempic to an increased risk of gastroparesis and other gastrointestinal issues. Research published in October found that Ozempic users were three times more likely to develop stomach paralysis compared to users of non-injectable weight loss drugs. The study also emphasized that injectable GLP-1 agonists, including Ozempic, were more likely to cause gastrointestinal issues like gastroparesis, pancreatitis and bowel obstruction than other weight management medications.

Rising Number of Ozempic Injury Lawsuits

Jones’ lawsuit is part of a growing number of legal actions against Ozempic manufacturer Novo Nordisk. Many former users of Ozempic are pursuing lawsuits, alleging that the drug maker provided false and misleading information about the drug’s safety and side effects. These product liability lawsuits raise concerns about Novo Nordisk’s failure to accurately describe the extent of the risks associated with Ozempic on the drug’s label and prescribing information.

Novo Nordisk has consistently defended the safety of its products, including Ozempic, stating that gastrointestinal side effects are listed on the drug’s warning label. The company claims that these side effects are mild to moderate and of short duration. However, plaintiffs argue that Novo Nordisk downplayed the severity of Ozempic side effects and failed to provide adequate warnings about the potential risks of developing gastroparesis or stomach paralysis.

Available Damages for Ozempic Lawsuits

Individuals who have used Ozempic and experienced severe gastrointestinal issues, such as gastroparesis, may be eligible to file a product liability lawsuit against Novo Nordisk. Damages in Ozempic lawsuits depend on the harm and losses suffered by the plaintiffs. Compensation may cover medical costs related to severe gastrointestinal issues, including hospitalizations and ongoing medical treatments. Plaintiffs may also seek compensation for pain and suffering caused by the drug’s side effects. Court costs and attorney fees may also be included in the damages sought.

The Future of Ozempic Stomach Paralysis Lawsuits

The filing of new lawsuits against Novo Nordisk highlights the manufacturer’s ongoing legal battles surrounding Ozempic. Allegations of severe side effects, particularly gastroparesis, have led to an increasing number of complaints against the manufacturer. Research studies have indicated a potential link between Ozempic and gastrointestinal issues, and a growing number of individuals who have experienced severe gastrointestinal problems after using Ozempic are seeking compensation through product liability lawsuits. As more Ozempic gastroparesis lawsuits are filed, it is likely that the U.S. Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation will consolidate the claims into a multidistrict litigation (MDL) to address common issues and streamline the legal process.