Pennsylvania Saxenda Lawsuit (Get the Latest 2024 Updates)

Quick Summary

• Have you experienced severe side effects from Saxenda while residing in Pennsylvania? The Pennsylvania Saxenda lawsuit addresses claims from individuals affected by this weight-loss drug.
• This article will inform you about the reasons for these lawsuits, the legal process, and what steps to take if you’re impacted.
• If you or someone you know has experienced complications due to Saxenda, Schmidt & Clark, LLP, is ready to help. With a strong reputation in representing plaintiffs, our focus is on securing the justice and compensation you deserve.

How S&C Can Help With Your Claim?

Schmidt & Clark, LLP, can help with your Saxenda claim by providing expert legal representation and personalized support.

Here’s how we can assist you:

• Meticulously evaluating your case to assess its merit and potential outcomes
• Crafting personalized legal strategies specific to your Saxenda-related claim
• Representing you in negotiations and court proceedings to seek fair compensation

Our goal is to ensure you are well-informed about your legal rights and the lawsuit process, guiding you every step of the way.

Saxenda Lawsuit Overview

Saxenda lawsuits have been gaining traction, with numerous cases being consolidated into multidistrict litigation (MDL 3094) in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. As of February 2024, there are over 100 pending cases, and this number is expected to grow significantly due to the drug’s widespread use.

The MDL was reassigned to Judge Karen Spencer Marston in June 2024, underscoring the ongoing and dynamic nature of these proceedings involving Saxenda lawsuit individuals.

Many individuals affected by Saxenda’s side effects are exploring legal options and filing individual lawsuits against the manufacturer, Novo Nordisk. Unlike class action lawsuits, these individual cases allow for more personalized claims related to specific health issues.

A more profound understanding of these lawsuits requires an examination of the litigation’s causes, Saxenda’s nature, and its functioning. The following sections will provide a detailed look at these aspects, helping you grasp the full picture of the Saxenda legal landscape.

What Is Saxenda?

Saxenda is a prescription weight loss medication used for chronic weight management in adults with a BMI of 27 or higher who have weight-related medical issues or obesity. It’s also approved for use in children aged 12-17 years with a body weight above 132 pounds (60 kg) and obesity [1].

Saxenda is intended to be used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity for effective weight management.

Both Saxenda and Victoza contain the same active ingredient, liraglutide, but they should not be used together or with other GLP-1 receptor agonist medications. The safety and effectiveness of Saxenda when combined with other weight-loss products are not yet established.

How Does Saxenda Work?

Saxenda works as a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, which helps regulate appetite and reduce calorie intake. The GLP-1 receptor is present in several brain areas involved in appetite regulation, including the hypothalamus.

In animal studies, Saxenda has been shown to activate neurons in these brain regions, thereby helping to control appetite and promote weight loss.

By mimicking the GLP-1 hormone, Saxenda lowers hunger stimulation and helps users feel full sooner, which can lead to reduced food intake and significant weight loss. However, this mechanism also raises concerns about its safety and potential side effects, such as low blood sugar, which are at the heart of many Saxenda lawsuits.

What Are The Gastrointestinal Issues Associated With Saxenda Consumption?

The gastrointestinal issues associated with Saxenda consumption are one of the most troubling side effects, particularly gastroparesis, a condition that significantly delays gastric emptying.

According to a 2023 research by Mayo Clinic, symptoms of gastroparesis include [2]:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Bloating
• Abdominal pain

The severity of these symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe cases requiring hospitalization, surgery, or even feeding tubes.

Studies have shown that individuals taking liraglutide, the active ingredient in Saxenda, experience significantly delayed gastric emptying compared to those taking a placebo. This evidence underscores the importance of seeking medical attention if you experience severe gastrointestinal issues while taking Saxenda.

Saxenda Side Effects and Symptoms

Saxenda can cause a range of side effects, from mild to severe.

According to MNT, mild side effects include [3]:

• back pain
• belching
• body aches
• pain at the injection site

More common side effects are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. However, the serious side effects have led many to file lawsuits against Novo Nordisk.

Among the severe side effects are acute pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, and significant increases in resting heart rate. Saxenda also has a boxed warning for the risk of thyroid cancer, a serious condition that has significant implications for users.

These substantial health risks highlight the need for comprehensive information before commencing treatment with Saxenda.

Kidney Damage from Saxenda

Kidney damage is one of the most severe side effects associated with Saxenda. Acute renal failure and chronic kidney disease have been reported in users of the medication. This kidney damage is often due to dehydration caused by side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Postmarketing reports have identified incidents of acute renal failure and the worsening of chronic renal failure, further highlighting the risks associated with Saxenda use. Users should closely monitor their symptoms and immediately consult a healthcare professional if they suffer from intense dehydration or kidney issues.

Risk of Thyroid Cancer

Saxenda has been associated with an increased risk of thyroid cancer, particularly medullary thyroid carcinoma. Symptoms of thyroid cancer include a lump or swelling in the neck, difficulty breathing or swallowing, and changes to the voice, such as hoarseness.

Animal studies have shown that liraglutide, the active ingredient in Saxenda, causes thyroid C-cell tumors in rodents, raising concerns about its potential to cause similar issues in humans. While these findings are not confirmed in humans, the risk is significant enough to warrant caution, especially for those with a personal or family history of thyroid cancer.

Is Saxenda FDA-approved?

Saxenda is an FDA-approved medication for the treatment of obesity in adults and adolescents. It was first approved for use in adults in 2014 and later extended to adolescents aged 12 to 17 in 2020. Saxenda is made by Novo Nordisk, the same company that manufactures Ozempic and Wegovy.

The active ingredient in Saxenda, liraglutide, helps regulate blood sugar levels and reduce appetite, making it an effective weight loss drug when used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Despite its FDA approval, Saxenda’s severe side effects have triggered a wave of lawsuits from adversely affected individuals.

Studies have found increased risks of gastrointestinal adverse events (biliary disease, pancreatitis, bowel obstruction, and gastroparesis) in patients with diabetes.2-5 Because such patients have higher baseline risk for gastrointestinal adverse events, risk in patients taking these drugs for other indications may differ – Mohit Sodhi, MSc, Researcher at the Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

How Do You Qualify for a Saxenda Lawsuit?

To qualify for a Saxenda lawsuit, you must have proof of medication use and documentation of adverse health conditions. This includes having medical records that confirm you were prescribed Saxenda and experienced severe side effects such as gastroparesis, gallbladder disease, or kidney damage.

The Status Of The Saxenda Litigation in Pennsylvania

In February 2024, numerous Saxenda lawsuits were gathered into multidistrict litigation (MDL 3094) in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. This consolidation enhances the efficiency of legal proceedings.

There are over 100 pending cases at present, and this number is anticipated to increase significantly in the next few months. Judge Karen Spencer Marston was assigned the MDL in June 2024 after the previous judge unexpectedly passed away. This change occurred due to unforeseen circumstances.

The consolidation of these clinical trial cases aims to streamline the legal process and handle the growing number of lawsuits more efficiently. This development indicates the seriousness of the claims and the potential for significant legal action against Novo Nordisk.

Saxenda Lawsuit Settlement Amounts in Pennsylvania

Potential settlement amounts in Saxenda lawsuits can vary widely based on the severity of the side effects and the impact on the individual’s life. Compensation may include past and future medical expenses related to the treatment, pain, and suffering, lost wages, or reduced earning capacity.

Estimated settlement amounts have ranged from $50,000 to $500,000, depending on the specifics of each case.

Punitive damages may be imposed in some cases to punish the manufacturer for their actions or inactions. These damages are meant to discourage similar behavior in the future.

Plaintiffs may be compensated for the following damages resulting from Saxenda’s severe side effects:

• Emotional distress
• Decreased quality of life
• Medical expenses
• Pain and suffering
• Lost wages

Filing a Saxenda Stomach Paralysis Lawsuit in Pennsylvania

Filing a Saxenda stomach paralysis lawsuit in Pennsylvania involves several crucial steps. The first step is to seek a free case evaluation from an experienced attorney who can assess the viability of your claim. In this initial consultation, the attorney will scrutinize your medical records and prescription details to assess your eligibility for filing a lawsuit.

Legal Strategies and Challenges

In Saxenda lawsuits, legal strategies frequently involve presenting studies and case reports that draw a connection between the medication and severe health conditions such as stomach paralysis and gastroparesis.

Proving causation is one of the main challenges, as the pharmaceutical company’s legal team will likely argue that other factors could have caused the health issues.

Another challenge is overcoming Novo Nordisk’s defense arguments. The legal professionals handling Saxenda lawsuits must meticulously prepare to counter these arguments and demonstrate that the manufacturer failed to provide adequate warnings about the risks associated with the drug.

Types of Evidence To Present

Compiling the correct evidence is pivotal for a successful Saxenda lawsuit. Key pieces of evidence include medical records chronicling your health history and any complications resulting from Saxenda usage. These records help establish a direct link between the medication and your adverse health effects.

A Saxenda lawyer can present various types of evidence to strengthen your case:

• Medical Records: Detailed documentation of your health history and any complications arising from Saxenda use.
• Prescription Details: Proof of Saxenda use, including dosage and duration, to corroborate your claims.
• Personal Medical Diaries and Patient Journals: Records of your symptoms and complications, which can provide a comprehensive view of your experience.
• Reports to Healthcare Providers: Documentation of any adverse reactions or complications reported to your healthcare providers.

These pieces of evidence collectively help establish the connection between Saxenda and your adverse health effects, thereby strengthening your case.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for a Saxenda Lawsuit In Pennsylvania?

The statute of limitations for a Saxenda lawsuit in Pennsylvania is typically one to three years from the date of diagnosis. It’s crucial to act promptly and consult with an attorney to ensure your lawsuit is filed within the legal timeframe.

Legal deadlines can sometimes be extended based on the date the injury was discovered, but timely action is essential to preserving your legal rights.

Related Articles:

• Virginia Saxenda Lawyer
• Illinois Saxenda Lawsuit Attorney
• South Carolina Saxenda Lawsuit

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

Get Your Free Consultation From Our Pennsylvania Saxenda Lawyers

The Schmidt & Clark, LLP law firm stands ready to assist you during these difficult times. If you or a loved one has experienced complications from medications like Saxenda, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us to file a Saxenda lawsuit.

Our team is highly experienced in managing such cases and will guide you through the legal process. We will clarify your rights and evaluate your eligibility for a lawsuit related to these complications.

Take advantage of our free case evaluation, and remember, we only charge fees if we win your case. You can trust that our dedication to your case is as strong as if you were a member of our own family. Contact us today for a thorough review of your concerns.

Reference:

1. https://www.saxenda.com/about-saxenda/side-effects.html
2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gastroparesis/symptoms-causes/syc-20355787
3. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-saxenda-side-effects#more-common-side-effects