Wegovy, a higher-dose version of the widely used diabetes drug Ozempic, has gained significant popularity in recent years as a weight-loss aid. However, a growing number of individuals across the United States are now pursuing legal action against the manufacturer, Novo Nordisk, alleging that the company failed to adequately warn about the potential risks associated with Wegovy, particularly the debilitating condition known as gastroparesis or stomach paralysis.
The Rise of Wegovy and Ozempic
Wegovy and Ozempic, both of which contain the active ingredient semaglutide, are part of a new class of weight loss and diabetes medications called glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs). These drugs work by mimicking the action of a hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate blood sugar levels and control appetite. While Ozempic was initially approved only for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, its popularity as a weight-loss aid has surged in recent years.Â
This prompted Novo Nordisk to introduce Wegovy in June 2021. Wegovy features the same active ingredient as Ozempic but at a higher dosage, specifically approved for weight loss in adults with obesity or excess weight who also have weight-related medical problems. By targeting the areas of the brain involved in controlling appetite and food intake, Wegovy can help users eat less, leading to weight loss.
Allegations of Inadequate Drug Injury Warnings
The growing number of product liability lawsuits against Novo Nordisk allege that the company failed to adequately warn users and the medical community about the risk of Wegovy and Ozempic-induced gastroparesis, a condition characterized by delayed stomach emptying that can lead to severe gastrointestinal complications.
One recent Wegovy lawsuit, filed by Dana and George Peach in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey, claims that Novo Nordisk’s warning label for Wegovy minimizes the degree of gastrointestinal problems reported among users and the long-term consequences that can result from stomach paralysis.
The complaint alleges that the Wegovy label lists several potential gastrointestinal symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and constipation, as common adverse reactions. However, the lawsuit argues that these symptoms are not included in the “Warnings and Precautions” section, nor are users warned that these adverse reactions may be indicative of more severe conditions, including gastroparesis. In fact, the lawsuit states that gastroparesis is not mentioned at all in the Wegovy label.
Potential Link Between Wegovy and Gastroparesis Side Effects
Gastroparesis is a condition characterized by a delay in the emptying of the stomach, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, bloating, and abdominal pain. While the exact mechanism by which Wegovy may contribute to these stomach problems is not yet fully understood, there is mounting evidence suggesting a potential association between the drug and these gastrointestinal complications.
In clinical trials, a significant percentage of patients taking Wegovy reported gastrointestinal adverse reactions, with severe reactions occurring more frequently in Wegovy patients compared to those taking a placebo. Additionally, a recent study of popular weight-loss drugs published in October 2023 found that GLP-1 agonists, the class of drugs that includes Wegovy and Ozempic, can triple the risk of stomach paralysis among users when compared to users of non-injectable weight loss drugs.
Coordinated Litigation and Bellwether Trials for GLP-1 Agonist Medications
As a result of mounting safety concerns surrounding Wegovy and other GLP-1 agonist medications, the U.S. Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) has established coordinated pretrial proceedings for all GLP-1 RA drug lawsuits. These claims have been centralized in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, allowing for coordinated discovery and pretrial proceedings.
As part of this coordinated management, it is expected that the parties will identify a small group of “bellwether” claims to prepare for early trial dates. These bellwether trials will help gauge how juries may respond to certain evidence and testimony that will be repeated throughout the broader GLP-1 RA litigation. If the parties are unable to negotiate settlements or reach another resolution following the bellwether trials, each individual lawsuit may later be remanded back to the original U.S. District Court for a separate trial.
Seeking Compensation for Wegovy- and Ozempic-Related Injuries
For individuals who have experienced persistent vomiting, stomach paralysis, gastroparesis, or other adverse effects after taking Wegovy, the potential for financial compensation exists through product liability lawsuits. By pursuing legal action against Novo Nordisk, affected individuals may be able to seek compensation for their medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages. It is important to note that investigations by law firms are ongoing, and new lawsuits may emerge in the future as more information about the potential side effects of Wegovy and Ozempic becomes available.Â
Wegovy Lawsuit Information
