South Carolina Rybelsus Stomach Paralysis Lawsuit (Latest Updates)

Quick Summary

• If you’re in South Carolina and have developed stomach paralysis after using Rybelsus, you might be eligible for a South Carolina Rybelsus stomach paralysis lawsuit. This prescription medication is used in the management of type 2 diabetes, and this article details the current status of these lawsuits, eligibility criteria, and steps to file your claim.
• If you or someone you know has experienced complications due to Rybelsus, Schmidt & Clark, LLP, is here to assist. Known for their strong track record in representing plaintiffs, they are dedicated to ensuring you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.

How S&C Can Help With Your Claim?

S&C can help with your claim by specializing in pharmaceutical litigation and providing invaluable guidance for filing lawsuits related to stomach paralysis caused by medications like Rybelsus.

The legal team at S&C is dedicated to helping clients seek financial compensation for injuries sustained from medications like Rybelsus. We work tirelessly to ensure that clients receive fair treatment and justice for the harm they’ve suffered.

By managing all aspects of the legal process, from:

• filing claims
• gathering evidence
• negotiating settlements
• representing clients in court

Rybelsus Stomach Paralysis Lawsuit

At the moment, Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of the diabetes drugs Ozempic, Rybelsus, and Wegovy, faces 58 lawsuits. These lawsuits allege that Novo Nordisk failed to warn consumers about the potentially severe health issues associated with the diabetes drug Rybelsus, including the risk of developing gastroparesis.

The Ozempic lawsuit is particularly relevant as it highlights similar issues and legal proceedings related to the drug Ozempic.

The main claim in these lawsuits is that the manufacturer failed to provide adequate warnings about the risk of severe gastrointestinal problems.

Despite the severity of these side effects, Rybelsus lawsuits are being pursued as individual claims rather than as part of a class action. This means each case is evaluated on its own merits, which can lead to varying outcomes depending on the specific details of each situation. The broader context of Ozempic lawsuits also impacts the legal landscape, as they address similar concerns and legal strategies.

If you’ve suffered from severe stomach pain or other serious symptoms after taking Rybelsus, understanding the nature of these lawsuits and their current status can help you determine your next steps.

What is Rybelsus?

According to WebMed, Rybelsus is an oral GLP-1 receptor protein treatment approved in the United States for treating type 2 diabetes in adults. It was approved on September 20, 2019, marking a significant milestone in diabetes management [1].

This approval offered patients a new option for managing their condition. Rybelsus contains 14 mg of semaglutide, which helps regulate appetite and manage blood sugar levels by mimicking the effects of GLP-1, a naturally occurring incretin hormone.

Unlike injectable treatments, Rybelsus is taken orally every day, at least 30 minutes before food. This convenience makes it a popular choice among patients who prefer not to use injections. However, it is important to note that Rybelsus is only approved for type 2 diabetes.

Similarly, prescribed healthcare providers use Ozempic to manage type 2 diabetes and address related symptoms such as stomach paralysis, vomiting, abdominal distress, bloating, and acid reflux.

How Does Rybelsus Work?

Rybelsus works by mimicking the hormone GLP-1 to stimulate insulin release from the pancreas after meals. This helps manage blood sugar levels by moving glucose from the blood into cells for energy, thus stabilizing blood sugar levels.

Additionally, semaglutide in Rybelsus reduces the release of glucagon, a hormone that increases blood sugar levels.

Another significant function of Rybelsus is its ability to slow gastric emptying, which helps control post-meal blood sugar spikes and increases feelings of fullness.

By interacting with GLP-1 receptors in the brain, Rybelsus also reduces appetite and cravings, making it a comprehensive solution for managing type 2 diabetes. However, this mechanism can also lead to severe gastrointestinal issues, a key focus of the ongoing lawsuits.

Rybelsus carries a boxed warning about the risk of thyroid cancer. This is the most serious alert from the FDA – Ami Patel PharmD, BCPS, Pharmacist at UNC Health

Rybelsus Side Effects and Symptoms

While Rybelsus helps manage type 2 diabetes by mimicking the hormone GLP-1, it also comes with a range of adverse reactions. One of the primary mechanisms of GLP-1 agonists like Rybelsus is to slow the stomach’s emptying, which can lead to an increased risk of gastroparesis or stomach paralysis.

According to Healthline, this slowed digestion can cause food to remain in the stomach for extended periods, leading to severe health complications such as [2]:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Bloating
• Heartburn
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss

Research has linked the use of GLP-1 agonists, a type of weight loss drug, to serious gastrointestinal issues, including stomach paralysis, pancreatitis, and bowel obstruction.

A study reported a 3.67 times increased risk for gastroparesis in individuals using GLP-1 agonists compared to other weight loss drugs. These adverse effects highlight the potential dangers of using Rybelsus and similar weight loss medications, underscoring the importance of being aware of these risks before starting treatment.

Symptoms of gastroparesis caused by Rybelsus are often severe and debilitating. Patients have reported experiencing severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, sometimes for days on end.

These symptoms can be particularly distressing, as they often lead to serious stomach problems, such as a hard mass of food remaining in the stomach, which can require medical intervention.

According to Mayo Clinic, other primary symptoms of gastroparesis include [3]:

• Stomach pain
• Feeling full after eating just a few bites
• Vomiting food consumed hours earlier
• Acid reflux

These symptoms can lead to significant weight loss and changes in blood sugar levels, further complicating the management of diabetes. Decreased appetite is also common, adding to the overall discomfort and health issues faced by patients.

Severe complications from gastroparesis, such as severe stomach problems, can include:

• Dehydration
• Malnutrition
• Unstable blood sugar levels

Rybelsus FDA-Approval and Its Black Box Warning

Rybelsus, the first and only GLP-1 analog in pill form, received its initial FDA approval in 2019. In 2023, the FDA further approved Rybelsus as a first-line treatment option for adults with type 2 diabetes, removing its previous limitations.

This approval underscores the drug’s effectiveness in managing blood sugar levels by increasing insulin release, decreasing sugar release from the liver, and slowing gastric emptying. Thus, it is a valuable addition to the range of diabetes medications available.

However, the FDA has also issued a boxed warning for Rybelsus due to the potential risk of developing thyroid cancer. This warning is based on animal studies that showed an increased risk of thyroid tumors.

The FDA recommends cautious use of Rybelsus in patients with a history or family history of thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2.

The black box warning highlights the seriousness of these potential risks and the need for patients to be fully informed before starting treatment with Rybelsus.

It also underscores the responsibility of healthcare providers to consider these risks and discuss them with their patients carefully. Understanding the FDA’s stance on Rybelsus helps patients navigate their treatment options more safely.

How Do You Qualify for a Rybelsus Stomach Paralysis Lawsuit?

To qualify for a Rybelsus stomach paralysis lawsuit, you must demonstrate that you’ve suffered severe gastrointestinal side effects and that the manufacturer failed to warn about these potential risks.

The legal claims for Rybelsus in South Carolina are based on both ‘failure to warn’ and ‘negligence’ regarding the drug’s side effects and potential health risks.

Lawsuits often focus on the severe gastrointestinal issues like gastroparesis and bowel obstruction that patients have experienced. These claims argue that Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer, knew of these risks but did not adequately inform consumers.

This alleged failure to warn forms the crux of many legal actions, with plaintiffs seeking compensation for the debilitating health conditions they’ve endured.

The Status Of The Rybelsus Stomach Paralysis Litigation in South Carolina

The Rybelsus litigation in South Carolina is still in its early stages, with the following updates:

• The first status conference was held on June 10, 2024, under the new judge, Karen Marston.
• Judge Marston has issued two orders related to filing cases into the GLP-1 MDL and privilege logs.
• No major judicial orders or completed individual cases have emerged yet.

As of September 2023, recent lawsuits against Rybelsus and similar drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy are still developing. Settlements are not anticipated for several months or longer, indicating that the litigation process is likely to be lengthy. For those affected, staying informed about the status of these cases is crucial as new developments unfold.

Rybelsus Lawsuit Settlement Amounts in South Carolina

While the litigation process is still ongoing, estimated settlement amounts for serious injuries in Rybelsus lawsuits range between $400,000 and $700,000. These amounts are based on the severity of the injuries and the specific details of each case, which can vary greatly.

It’s important to note that actual settlement amounts may differ depending on individual circumstances. Factors such as the extent of the injury, medical expenses, and the impact on the plaintiff’s quality of life all play a role in determining the final settlement.

Filing a Rybelsus Stomach Paralysis Lawsuit in South Carolina

Filing a Rybelsus stomach paralysis lawsuit in South Carolina requires taking several important steps, starting with consulting an attorney to determine your eligibility.

This initial consultation is crucial, as it helps establish whether your case meets the necessary legal criteria to proceed. The best way to file a lawsuit is by seeking professional legal guidance to navigate the complex legal landscape.

Legal Strategies and Challenges

Legal strategies in Rybelsus lawsuits often focus on the manufacturer’s failure to warn consumers about the potential for adverse health conditions, including stomach paralysis.

Plaintiffs argue that Novo Nordisk did not adequately communicate the risks associated with the drug. This angle is crucial, as it forms the basis for many of the negligence claims.

The litigation involves:

• complex legal motions
• a new judge, Karen Marston, presiding over the case
• a scheduled ‘Science Day’ to help understand the technical issues related to Rybelsus and its side effects, including those from similar drugs

Challenges in these lawsuits include the need to turn over relevant information, while some documents may be withheld under privilege and logged accordingly.

Types of Evidence To Present

Presenting strong evidence is key to a successful Rybelsus lawsuit.

Here are some crucial pieces of evidence to gather:

• Medical records documenting the diagnosis and treatment of gastroparesis or other severe gastrointestinal issues
• Objective proof of the health problems caused by the medication
• Documentation establishing a direct link between Rybelsus and the adverse effects

Proof of a prescription for Rybelsus, a prescription drug, is also vital, as it confirms that the plaintiff indeed used the medication. Emergency room visits and hospitalizations related to the condition should be thoroughly documented. These records can demonstrate the severity of the health issues and the extent of medical intervention required.

Doctor’s notes linking the adverse condition with the use of Rybelsus can further strengthen the case. Additionally, documentation of missed work due to health issues caused by the medication can support claims for lost wages and other damages. Effectively collecting and presenting this evidence can significantly impact the outcome of the lawsuit.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for a Rybelsus Lawsuit In South Carolina?

The statute of limitations for a Rybelsus lawsuit in South Carolina is generally three years from the date of injury or discovery of the injury. This means that individuals have a limited window of time to file their lawsuits. It’s crucial to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure that your claim is filed within this period.

Related Articles:

• Arkansas Rybelsus Stomach Paralysis Lawsuit
• Louisiana Rybelsus Stomach Paralysis Lawsuit
• Illinois Rybelsus Stomach Paralysis Lawsuit

See all related dangerous drug lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.

Get Your Free Consultation From Our South Carolina Rybelsus Lawyers

The Schmidt & Clark, LLP law firm is here to assist you during these difficult times. If you or a loved one has experienced complications from diabetes drugs such as Rybelsus, please reach out to us. Our team possesses extensive expertise in managing such cases and will guide you through the legal process.

We will help clarify your rights and evaluate your eligibility for a lawsuit related to these complications. Benefit from a free case evaluation, and remember that we only charge fees if we win your case.

You can rely on our unwavering commitment to your case. We treat it with the same dedication as if you were part of our family. Contact us today for a thorough review of your concerns.

Reference:

1. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-178019/rybelsus-oral/details
2. https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/rybelsus#side-effects