Ozempic Lawsuit: Guide & Latest Updates (August 2024)

What Is the Ozempic Class Action Lawsuit?

Ozempic is a medication widely used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and, more recently, as an off-label weight loss treatment. Patients later suffered gastrointestinal conditions from using it.

The serious side effects seem widespread. However, claims are not being handled in Ozempic class action lawsuits. There are individual lawsuits that the courts combined into multidistrict litigation (MDL.)

An MDL is different in that people can pursue individual settlements and verdicts rather than take a piece of a class settlement. It streamlines proceedings and prevents conflicting rulings from judges.

As of July 2024, 105 Ozempic lawsuits allege gastroparesis, ileus and intestinal blockage. The Eastern District of Pennsylvania manages these claims in the MDL.

Plaintiffs argue that Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Ozempic, didn’t adequately warn patients and healthcare providers about these potential risks. Attorneys are also researching other potential claims after a study in JAMA Ophthalmology found a link between semaglutide (Ozempic’s active ingredient) and vision loss.

Novo Nordisk also produces Wegovy, another semaglutide drug. Wegovy also arises in semaglutide lawsuits involving similar impacts.

There have been no publicly reported settlements so far. These lawsuits are fairly new, and like most civil matters, they will require time.

Ozempic Cases On The Rise

When the Ozempic MDL started in February 2024, it had 55 lawsuits. Now, it has nearly doubled to 105, and that number will likely grow as Ozempic use increases.

Also, a study discovered that healthcare providers wrote over 9 million prescriptions for Ozempic and similar drugs containing semaglutide during the last three months of 2022. The drug’s popularity for weight loss could lead to more claims and lawsuits.

Ozempic Impacts

The Ozempic lawsuits allege the drug causes severe gastroparesis, ileus, and intestinal blockage.

Here's a detailed look at the symptoms associated with each of these conditions:

Gastroparesis

Gastroparesis is a condition that affects the normal spontaneous movement of the muscles (called motility) in your stomach. It leads to delayed food emptying from the stomach into the small intestine.

Symptoms of Ozempic-induced gastroparesis can include the following:

• Nausea and vomiting. The vomit may contain undigested food.

• Early Satiety. Patients may feel full sooner while eating.

• Abdominal bloating. The stomach may visibly expand (distended).

• Abdominal pain. Discomfort or pain can be widespread or localized.

• Heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux. Patients feel a burning sensation in the chest.

• Difficulty managing diabetes. Blood sugar surges and drops may become more dramatic, making it challenging to assess sugar levels.

• Lack of appetite. While seemingly ideal for weight loss, this symptom can cause malnutrition over time.

Ileus

Ileus refers to the temporary and often painful cessation of regular bowel contractions. It leads to a buildup of intestinal contents and potential blockage.

Symptoms of ileus due to Ozempic use can include the following:

• Abdominal distention. Swelling or enlargement of the abdomen.

• Pain and cramping. Often spread out and not localized to one specific area.

• Nausea and vomiting. Vomiting may include bile or fecal matter in severe cases.

• Inability to pass stool or gas. Signifying a blockage in the intestines.

• Lack of appetite. Due to discomfort and swelling.

Intestinal Blockage

Intestinal blockage — also called bowel obstruction — occurs when something blocks the intestines, preventing the normal passage of contents through the digestive tract.

Symptoms of intestinal blockage linked to Ozempic can include the following:

• Severe abdominal pain

• Vomiting

• Abdominal distension

• Constipation or inability to pass gas

• Diarrhea

• Rapid heart rate and dehydration

These symptoms can be severe and debilitating and affect your quality of life and overall health.

Ozempic Settlements

What kind of compensation are Ozempic plaintiffs pursuing? The specifics depend on the nature and extent of the injuries you suffered because of Ozempic.

Common categories of damages sought in Ozempic settlements include the following:

• Medical expenses

• Lost wages and earning capacity

• Pain and suffering

• Punitive damages

• Legal fees and costs

• Loss of consortium

Are you eligible to file a lawsuit against Ozempic? Ready to seek compensation? ConsumerShield is prepared to connect you with an attorney who can help you.