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Developed stomach paralysis after taking Wegovy or Ozempic? Studies show a 4x higher risk of severe complications, and victims may qualify for substantial compensation.
GLP-1 medications like Wegovy and Ozempic, popular for weight loss, have been linked to serious side effects, including gastroparesis (stomach paralysis). This rare condition has led to lawsuits, highlighting the urgent need for accountability and support for affected patients.
Table Of Contents
- New Study Ties Weight-Loss Drug Wegovy to Serious Gastrointestinal Conditions
- Key Findings from the Study
- Drug Makers Sued by Patient Alleging “Severe Gastrointestinal Issues”
- What is Wegovy?
- What’s the Difference Between Wegovy and Ozempic?
- What is Stomach Paralysis?
- Wegovy May Paralyze Stomach, Doctors Warn: CBS News Video
- Gastroparesis Symptoms
- Is There a Stomach Paralysis Warning on the Wegovy Label?
- Update: Wegovy Linked to Rare Blindness-Causing Injury
- What Should I Do if Wegovy Has Injured Me?
- Wegovy Lawsuit: Who Is Eligible?
- Documentation for Wegovy Lawsuit: Stomach Paralysis Risks and Compensation Updates for 2024
- FAQs
- Get a Free Wegovy Stomach Paralysis Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers
New Study Ties Weight-Loss Drug Wegovy to Serious Gastrointestinal Conditions
A study published in JAMA on October 5, 2023, has raised concerns about the gastrointestinal risks associated with Wegovy and other GLP-1 inhibitor weight-loss medications [1].
This research highlights the increased likelihood of developing serious conditions such as pancreatitis, intestinal blockage, and stomach paralysis compared to older obesity medications.
Key Findings from the Study
Gastroparesis Risk:
- Approximately 9 cases of stomach paralysis (gastroparesis) per 1,000 users of semaglutide (Wegovy) were reported, compared to 3 cases per 1,000 users of bupropion-naltrexone (Contrave).
- For liraglutide (Saxenda, Victoza), around 7 cases of gastroparesis per 1,000 users were identified.
Pancreatitis Incidence:
- Nearly 5 out of 1,000 users of semaglutide developed pancreatitis, while bupropion-naltrexone users experienced just 1 case per 1,000.
- For liraglutide, there were about 8 pancreatitis cases per 1,000 users.
Comparison with Older Medications:
- The risk of gastroparesis with semaglutide is nearly three times higher than older medications like bupropion-naltrexone.
- The likelihood of pancreatitis is over nine times greater for semaglutide users compared to those on bupropion-naltrexone.
Implications for Patients
The study underscores the need for heightened awareness and monitoring among patients using GLP-1 inhibitors. Semaglutide and liraglutide, while effective for weight loss, carry significantly higher risks of gastrointestinal complications compared to older treatments like Contrave.
Patients should discuss potential side effects with their healthcare providers and promptly report any symptoms of gastrointestinal distress. This research highlights the importance of balancing the benefits of GLP-1 medications with their associated risks.
Drug Makers Sued by Patient Alleging “Severe Gastrointestinal Issues”
A Louisiana woman has filed a product liability lawsuit against the makers of Ozempic and Mounjaro, prescription drugs in the same class as Wegovy, alleging that the companies downplayed the potential risk of adverse effects of the medications, and claiming she was “severely injured” after using them.
Plaintiff Jaclyn Bjorklund accuses Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly, the makers of Ozempic and Mounjaro, respectively, of adequately warning about the risk of gastroparesis, also known as “paralyzed stomach.”
In the lawsuit, Bjorklund claims that she was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in 2017 and used Ozempic for over a year, then switched to Mounjaro in July 2023 at the advice of her doctor, which she took to control her blood sugar.
Not long after switching to Mounjaro, Bjorklund began to suffer from “severe gastrointestinal events,” including severe vomiting, throwing up food hours after eating, stomach pain, gastrointestinal burning, hospitalizations for stomach issues, and teeth falling out because of excessive vomiting, according to the lawsuit.
Bjorklund seeks compensatory and punitive damages for past and future pain and suffering, including healthcare costs, medical monitoring, attorney’s fees, and court costs.
Related Article: Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit
What is Wegovy?
Wegovy is a brand name for semaglutide, a GLP-1 analog that increases the levels of a group of hormones called incretins.
These hormones help the body produce more insulin when needed and reduce the amount of glucose produced by the liver when it’s not needed. Wegovy is manufactured and marketed by Novo Nordisk and was first approved for the treatment of weight loss in June 2021.
What’s the Difference Between Wegovy and Ozempic?
Wegovy and Ozempic share the same active ingredient, semaglutide, but are designed for different medical conditions and come in varying doses.
Below is a comparison of their features, including FDA approval dates, intended uses, dosage differences, and gastrointestinal risks.
| Feature | Wegovy | Ozempic |
|---|---|---|
| Indication | Approved for overweight and obesity treatment | Approved for managing Type 2 diabetes |
| FDA Approval Date | June 2021 | December 2017 |
| Dosage Range | 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1.0 mg, 1.7 mg, and 2.4 mg pens | 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, and 1.0 mg pens |
| Starting Dose | Begins at 0.25 mg per week, gradually increased to a maximum of 2.4 mg | Begins at 0.25 mg per week, with a maximum sustained dose of 1.0 mg |
| Reported Cases of Gastroparesis | Approximately 9 cases per 1,000 users | Approximately 7 cases per 1,000 users |
| Warning Label Differences | Cautions about increased risk of gastroparesis due to higher sustained doses | Similar warnings regarding gastrointestinal side effects, including pancreatitis |
| Known Settlements | Ongoing litigation with settlements related to gastroparesis and side effects | Fewer reported settlements, though lawsuits have been filed regarding adverse effects. |
Contextual Insights
Indication and Dosing:
While both medications begin at the same initial dose of 0.25 mg per week, Wegovy ramps up to a significantly higher sustained dose of 2.4 mg per week for weight loss.
In contrast, Ozempic maintains a maximum dose of 1.0 mg per week, tailored to manage Type 2 diabetes. This higher dosage in Wegovy is one reason for its stronger focus on gastrointestinal warnings, particularly gastroparesis.
Reported Side Effects:
Both medications carry similar risks for gastrointestinal complications, including stomach paralysis. Wegovy users report approximately 9 cases of gastroparesis per 1,000 users, while Ozempic users report around 7 cases per 1,000. The increased dose of Wegovy may contribute to the slightly higher incidence rates.
Legal Implications:
Both drugs have faced lawsuits due to severe side effects, such as gastroparesis and pancreatitis. While Wegovy’s recent approval has led to more prominent lawsuits and settlements, Ozempic has also been linked to legal challenges. Patients experiencing severe complications may be entitled to significant compensation.
Wegovy and Ozempic cater to different patient needs but share common risks due to their active ingredient, semaglutide. Wegovy’s higher dosage offers enhanced efficacy for weight loss but may come with increased gastrointestinal risks compared to Ozempic.
What is Stomach Paralysis?
Stomach paralysis, or gastroparesis, occurs when the stomach empties much slower than normal. The stomach works by churning and grinding the person’s meal, then contracts to squeeze food through the small intestine. For people with stomach paralysis, this function does not occur normally.
Wegovy May Paralyze Stomach, Doctors Warn: CBS News Video
Gastroparesis Symptoms
Gastroparesis symptoms can vary significantly in severity and timing among patients. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for early identification and management.
The symptoms of gastroparesis are often non-specific but may include the following:
Mild Symptoms
- Nausea: Often occurs after eating; may be intermittent.
- Changes in Appetite: Some patients may experience a slight decrease in appetite.
- Feeling of Fullness: A mild sensation of fullness after eating small amounts.
Moderate Symptoms
- Abdominal Bloating: Noticeable swelling in the abdomen after meals.
- Vomiting: Occasional vomiting of undigested food, typically within a few hours after eating.
- Acid Reflux: Increased frequency of heartburn or acid reflux episodes.
Severe Symptoms
- Severe Nausea and Vomiting: Frequent vomiting, often leading to dehydration, may necessitate emergency care.
- Abdominal Pain: Chronic pain that can interfere with daily activities; described as burning or gnawing.
- Weight Loss/Malnutrition: Significant weight loss due to inability to eat or retain food, leading to malnutrition.
Is There a Stomach Paralysis Warning on the Wegovy Label?
There is currently no warning of the possibility of gastroparesis on the labeling of Wegovy. However, the label does state that the drug may “delay gastric emptying.”
Update: Wegovy Linked to Rare Blindness-Causing Injury
A recent study led by researchers at Mass Eye and Ear found that patients using semaglutide (the active ingredient in Wegovy and Ozempic) face an increased risk of developing non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). This rare condition can lead to total and permanent blindness [2].
The researchers, who were led by Joseph Rizzo, MD, director of the Neuro-Ophthalmology Service at Mass Eye and Ear, discovered that people with diabetes who had been prescribed semaglutide were over 4x more likely to be diagnosed with NAION.
Those who were prescribed semaglutide and were overweight or obese were more than 7 times more likely to develop the condition.
The use of these drugs has exploded throughout industrialized countries and they have provided very significant benefits in many ways, but future discussions between a patient and their physician should include NAION as a potential risk, Rizzo said.
Like a brain stroke, NAION occurs from reduced blood flow to the optic nerve, which can damage tissue in the same manner as a brain stroke.
NAION is the 2nd most common cause of blindness from optic nerve damage, behind glaucoma. Patients with high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes also have an increased risk for the development of NAION.
What Should I Do if Wegovy Has Injured Me?
If Wegovy or another similar weight-loss drug has harmed you, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.
You must speak with a knowledgeable and experienced attorney immediately after you have become aware of the harm caused by the medication to protect your rights and start the compensation process. Fill out the contact form below or call (866) 588-0600 for a free legal consultation.
Wegovy Lawsuit: Who Is Eligible?
You may be eligible to file a lawsuit if you:
- Have been diagnosed with a condition such as gastroparesis, pancreatitis, or other gastrointestinal complications linked to Wegovy.
- Experienced symptoms shortly after starting the medication.
- Have medical documentation and records linking your condition to Wegovy use.
- Suffered significant impacts on your quality of life, including physical, emotional, or financial hardships.
Consult an experienced attorney to navigate the legal process and gather the necessary documentation.
Documentation for Wegovy Lawsuit: Stomach Paralysis Risks and Compensation Updates for 2024
If you are considering legal action regarding stomach paralysis or other gastrointestinal issues related to Wegovy, it is essential to gather comprehensive documentation.
1. What Medical Records to Gather
- Medical History: Obtain a complete medical history that includes any pre-existing conditions and previous treatments.
- Diagnosis Records: Secure formal diagnosis documents confirming gastroparesis or any related gastrointestinal conditions.
- Test Results: Collect results from diagnostic tests, such as gastric emptying studies, which are crucial for proving your condition.
- Treatment Records: Gather all treatments received for your symptoms, including medications, therapies, and hospitalizations.
2. How to Document Symptoms
Maintain a detailed diary of your symptoms, noting:
-
- Type of Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, bloating, abdominal pain, etc.
- Severity Levels: Rate the severity on a scale from 1 to 10.
- Frequency: Document how often symptoms occur (daily, weekly).
- Duration: Note how long each episode lasts.
Record when symptoms began about starting Wegovy. For example, “Symptoms started approximately 2 months after beginning Wegovy.”
3. Important Dates to Record
- Prescription Start Date: Document when you began taking Wegovy.
- Symptom Onset Date: Note the date when you first experienced significant symptoms.
- Doctor Visits: Record the dates of all healthcare appointments related to your condition.
- Diagnosis Date: Mark when you received a formal diagnosis of gastroparesis or related issues.
4. Communications with Healthcare Providers
- Appointment Notes: Keep notes from each visit with healthcare providers regarding your symptoms and treatments.
- Emails and Messages: Save any email correspondence or messages exchanged with doctors about your condition and treatment options.
- Medical Advice Received: Document any recommendations made by healthcare providers regarding managing your symptoms or alternative treatments.
5. Prescription and Pharmacy Records
- Prescription History: Collect all prescriptions written for Wegovy and any other medications prescribed for gastrointestinal issues.
- Pharmacy Receipts: Keep receipts from pharmacies showing when you filled prescriptions for Wegovy and any other relevant medications.
- Medication Side Effects Information: Gather any pamphlets or information sheets provided by pharmacies regarding the potential side effects of Wegovy.
By gathering medical records, symptom documentation, essential dates, communications with healthcare providers, and prescription records, you can build a strong foundation for your legal claim.
FAQs
Who can file a lawsuit related to Wegovy and stomach paralysis?
Individuals who have developed gastroparesis or related symptoms after using Wegovy can file a lawsuit. Consulting with a personal injury lawyer specializing in pharmaceutical litigation can help determine eligibility and guide the legal process.
What symptoms are associated with Wegovy-induced stomach paralysis?
Symptoms of Wegovy-induced stomach paralysis include nausea, vomiting, feeling full quickly, bloating, and abdominal pain. These symptoms result from delayed gastric emptying and can significantly impact the quality of life.
How can I determine if Wegovy caused my stomach paralysis?
Determining if Wegovy caused stomach paralysis involves reviewing your medical history, symptoms, and the timing of medication use. A healthcare provider can perform diagnostic tests, and a lawyer can help assess whether there is a legal basis for a claim.
What steps should I take if I suspect Wegovy caused my stomach paralysis?
If you suspect Wegovy caused your stomach paralysis, seek medical attention to document your condition, stop using the medication as advised by your doctor, retain all medical records, and consult a lawyer to discuss potential legal action and compensation.
Can I still file if I’m currently taking Wegovy?
Yes, you can file a claim even if you still take Wegovy. The claim will focus on the harm or side effects you have already experienced while using the medication. It is essential to consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan and to document all symptoms and medical interactions as part of your evidence.
What compensation might I be entitled to?
Compensation that you might be entitled to includes coverage for medical expenses, both past and future, as well as lost wages, pain and suffering, and even punitive damages if negligence is proven. Settlement amounts can vary depending on the severity of the condition, with claims involving gastroparesis or pancreatitis often reaching six or seven figures.
How long do I have to file a claim?
The timeframe for filing a claim depends on your state’s statute of limitations, which generally ranges from one to three years from when you discovered the injury. Acting quickly ensures you meet all legal deadlines and preserve your rights to pursue compensation.
What evidence do I need to preserve?
The evidence you need to preserve includes medical records showing your diagnosis and treatment, proof of Wegovy prescriptions and purchase receipts, and documentation of symptoms or side effects and how they affect your daily life.
Will stopping Wegovy reverse my symptoms?
Stopping Wegovy may alleviate some side effects, but conditions such as gastroparesis or pancreatitis can persist or require long-term treatment. It is essential to consult with your healthcare provider before discontinuing the medication to determine the best and safest course of action for managing your symptoms.
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- Trulicity Stomach Paralysis Lawsuit
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See all related dangerous drug lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.
Get a Free Wegovy Stomach Paralysis Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers
The Pharmaceutical Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers focusing on representing plaintiffs in Wegovy Stomach Paralysis Lawsuits. We handle individual litigation nationwide and accept lawsuits in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one suffered from stomach paralysis or another injury after taking Wegovy or another weight loss medication, you should contact our law firm immediately. Consumers may be entitled to a settlement by filing a lawsuit, and our lawyers can help you receive fair compensation.
References:
- https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaophthalmology/fullarticle/2820255
- https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2810542
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