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Have you taken Ozempic, Mounjaro, or other GLP-1 drugs and developed severe stomach problems? Recent lawsuits reveal a concerning pattern of unreported side effects. Learn if you qualify for compensation.
Since August 2023, over 25,358 cases have been filed related to these drugs and their potential link to gastroparesis.
Quick Summary:
- Gastroparesis, a debilitating stomach paralysis condition, is being linked to GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro, with symptoms including nausea, vomiting, and severe dehydration.
- Over 1,300 lawsuits have been filed against Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly as of December 2024, with claimants seeking justice for the health impacts of these drugs.
- Affected individuals may qualify for compensation ranging from $400,000 to $700,000, based on the severity of their cases and related medical expenses.
Overview of the Situation
Lawsuits are now being filed alleging that a class of widely prescribed diabetes and weight-loss drugs, including Ozempic and Mounjaro, increases the risk of gastroparesis, also known as gastric emptying or stomach paralysis. This severe health disorder slows or stops food movement from the stomach to the small intestine.
Timeline of Key Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| August 2023 | Reports begin linking GLP-1 drugs to gastroparesis, prompting initial lawsuits. |
| September 2023 | Over 25,358 adverse reactions reported related to GLP-1 drugs. |
| December 20, 2023 | New lawsuits filed against Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly regarding unreported side effects. |
| January 2024 | Ongoing investigations into the safety and labeling of Ozempic and Mounjaro continue. |
If you have taken these medications and are experiencing related health issues, it is crucial to seek medical advice and consider your legal options. Stay informed about your rights and the potential for compensation as these cases develop.
Weight Loss Drug Manufacturers Sued Over “Stomach Paralysis” Side Effects
A personal injury lawsuit has been filed against Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly and Co., the manufacturers of Ozempic (Semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide), alleging that the type 2 diabetes medications, which are also popular for weight loss, can cause gastroparesis, according to CBS News [1.].
The case was filed on August 2, 2023, on behalf of a 44-year-old Louisiana woman who took both Ozempic and Mounjaro at the discretion of her doctor.
Soon after being prescribed the drugs, the woman developed stomach problems so severe that she was admitted to an emergency room multiple times, and threw up so violently that she lost her teeth, according to the lawsuit.
The claim is based on a failure to warn on the part of Novo and Lilly, and Plaintiff is seeking unspecified financial compensation.
Hundreds of other similar claims alleging injuries from these weight-loss drugs are currently being investigated across the United States, according to CBS.
GIP and GLP-1 Receptor Agonists: Diabetes Drugs and Weight Loss
Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) agonists are a class of type 2 diabetes drugs that are marketed as not only having the ability to improve blood sugar control in patients with type 2 diabetes but also to assist with weight loss in overweight individuals.
GLP-1 agonists are thought to work by mimicking the action of a hormone called glucagon-like peptide 1. When blood sugar levels rise after a person eats, these drugs stimulate the body to produce more insulin. The extra insulin helps lower blood sugar levels.
Medications in the GLP-1 agonist class include:
- Dulaglutide (Trulicity)
- Exenatide extended-release (Bydureon base)
- Exenatide (Byetta)
- Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy)
- Liraglutide (Victoza, Saxenda)
- Lixisenatide (Adlyxin)
- Semaglutide (Rybelsus)
What is Gastroparesis?
Gastroparesis, which means paralysis of the stomach, is a condition that affects the stomach’s ability to contract and move food into the small intestine. This can lead to food sitting in the stomach for extended periods, causing various uncomfortable and debilitating symptoms.
To better understand gastroparesis, consider the experiences of Catherine, a culinary arts student, who said that gastroparesis turned her passion into a source of frustration. “I experienced frequent bouts of nausea and vomiting,” she says.
After numerous tests and consultations with doctors who couldn’t find a diagnosis, she finally sought help at a specialized center where she learned about her condition. “It was such a relief to know the cause of my daily suffering,” Catherine reflects.
Stomach Paralysis Symptoms
Gastroparesis symptoms can vary in severity:
- Mild Symptoms: Nausea and occasional bloating may occur but are manageable.
- Moderate Symptoms: Persistent nausea, vomiting after meals, and significant discomfort can disrupt daily activities.
- Severe Symptoms: Severe abdominal pain, frequent vomiting, loss of appetite, and weight loss that may require hospitalization.
Symptoms can develop gradually:
- Initial Symptoms: Often start with mild nausea or bloating.
- Progression: Over weeks or months, symptoms may worsen to include severe pain and frequent vomiting.
- Diagnosis Delay: Many patients experience delays in diagnosis due to overlapping symptoms with other gastrointestinal disorders.
Certain populations are more susceptible to developing gastroparesis:
- Diabetics: Particularly those with long-standing diabetes.
- Pregnant Women: Hormonal changes can affect gastric motility.
- Elderly Individuals: Age-related factors may contribute to slower digestion.
Other Side Effects of Weight Loss Drugs
In addition to potentially causing gastroparesis/stomach paralysis, other side effects of weight-loss drugs from the GLP-1 agonist class may include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Injection site reactions
- Headache
- Nasopharyngitis (inflammation of the nasal passages and pharynx)
Complications of Gastroparesis
If stomach paralysis goes untreated, food tends to remain in the stomach far longer than it should. This can lead to bacterial overgrowth from the fermentation of food. The food can also harden into a bezoar, which is a tightly packed collection of partially digested material that can lead to obstruction in the gut, nausea and severe vomiting, and reflux symptoms.
How Can Weight Loss Drugs Cause Stomach Paralysis?
GLP-1 agonists stimulate insulin secretion from β cells in a group of pancreatic cells known as the islets of Langerhans. Studies have found that infusion of GLP-1 results in slowing of gastric emptying and increased fasting and postprandial gastric volumes. Retardation of gastric emptying reduces the glucose concentration in the bloodstream following a meal.
People Who Took Weight Loss Drugs Claim Their Stomachs Were Paralyzed: CNN Video
What Should I Do if I’ve Been Injured by a Weight-Loss Drug?
If you believe that you’ve been injured by one of the diabetes / weight-loss drugs listed in this article, you should seek immediate medical treatment for your symptoms. Your next step is to take action to protect your legal rights by consulting an experienced attorney who specializes in weight-loss drug stomach paralysis lawsuits. Fill out the contact form below for a free case evaluation.
Please Note: There may be a statute of limitations (SOL) that specifies the time you have to file a lawsuit. Contact an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you don’t miss any deadlines. Otherwise, you may be barred from pursuing compensation for your injuries.
Are You Eligible for Compensation? Gastroparesis Lawsuits and Settlements
If you or a loved one has suffered severe symptoms related to gastroparesis after taking GLP-1 medications like Ozempic or Mounjaro, legal action may be an option. Since August 2023, over 25,358 lawsuits have been filed, connecting these drugs to potential gastroparesis risks.
How Much Could You Receive? Understanding Settlement Amounts
Settlement amounts for gastroparesis-related lawsuits vary, but claimants with severe cases may receive significant compensation.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Estimated Settlement Range: $400,000 to $700,000 for severe cases or wrongful death claims.
- Key Factors That Impact Compensation:
- Medical Expenses: Includes costs for treatments, hospitalizations, and long-term care.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for time off work due to debilitating symptoms.
- Pain and Suffering: Acknowledges the emotional and physical toll of living with gastroparesis.
- Punitive Damages: Awarded to penalize the drug manufacturer for negligence.
With thousands of cases already filed and substantial settlements on the horizon, now is the time to explore your legal options. Speak with a medical professional to confirm your diagnosis and consult an attorney to understand your eligibility for compensation. Do not wait—your health and rights matter.
FAQs
Who can file a lawsuit related to weight loss drug-induced stomach paralysis?
Individuals who have developed gastroparesis or related symptoms after using weight loss drugs 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 indicate that a weight loss drug may have caused stomach paralysis?
Symptoms include chronic nausea, vomiting, feeling full quickly, bloating, and severe abdominal pain. These symptoms result from delayed gastric emptying and can significantly impact the quality of life.
How can I determine if a weight loss drug caused my gastroparesis?
Determining if a weight loss drug caused gastroparesis involves reviewing your medical history, symptoms, and the timing of medication use. Diagnostic tests by healthcare providers can confirm the condition, and a lawyer can assess the legal basis for a claim.
What steps should I take if I suspect a weight loss drug caused my stomach paralysis?
If you suspect a weight loss drug 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.
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Get a Free Weight Loss Drug Stomach Paralysis Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers
The Pharmaceutical Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus on the representation of plaintiffs in Weight Loss Drug Stomach Paralysis Lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting lawsuits in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one suffered from stomach paralysis or another injury after taking a 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.