CaseyGerry is investigating reports linking the use of the prescription drug Ozempic® to Cholelothiasis (gallstones), Cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder), and other gallbladder health issues, as well as Gastroparesis.
Ozempic® and similar medications are used by some patients with diabetes to control blood glucose levels. However, it has also grown in popularity as an off-label weight-loss drug.
Ozempic® is manufactured by Novo Nordisk, which also manufactures Wegovy, an injectable drug for adults with obesity. Ozempic® and Wegovy® are semaglutide drugs. Semaglutides mimic Glucagen 1 peptide 1 (GLP1) and help lower blood sugar levels in those suffering from type 2 diabetes. It does so by promoting the production of insulin, which reduces blood glucose.
Ozempic® is one of three FDA-approved semaglutide drugs on the market. In addition to controlling insulin production, Ozempic®, when taken in higher doses, can act as an appetite suppressant. This is because it slows the movement of food through the stomach, giving the impression of being full. This has contributed to its popularity as a weight-loss aid.
A recent CNN article reported that Ozempic® has soared in popularity as a weight loss drug, and now more and more cases of gallbladder health issues and stomach paralysis are emerging. In addition, the article noted that users were not adequately warned of these side effects.
In 2021, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported that it received over 10,000 reports of serious side effects from the use of Ozempic® including gallbladder diseases including cholelithiasis and Cholecystitis, especially in cases of extended or extensive use. Those affected required medical intervention and even the surgical removal of the gallbladder. However, Ozempic® drug manufacturer Novo Nordisk did not include warnings of gallbladder disease as a serious side effect until 2022.
The drug makers allege that side effects were reported, and labels included warnings of gastrointestinal issues such as abdominal pain and vomiting. The National Institute of Diabetes and Kidney Diseases reported that Gastroparesis, which was also found to be linked to the use of the drug, can also be referred to as ‘delayed gastric emptying,’ a side effect that is included on the drug label. In addition, the ailment could also be caused by other conditions, including diabetes.
The Ozempic® website lists several other adverse side effects from the use of the medication, including:
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Stomach Pain
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
Those harmed argue that the labels failed to adequately warn against the severity of the side effects and the heightened risk of developing gallbladder issues and gastroparesis, which can cause abdominal pain, nausea, and severe vomiting.
Our law firm has a strong history in drug litigation, successfully representing those impacted by the actions of drug manufacturers.
CaseyGerry is speaking to individuals who were prescribed Ozempic®, and have been diagnosed with Cholelothiasis, and Cholecystitis and other gallbladder issues after using the drug. If you or a loved one has been affected, please contact us at (619) 238-1811 to discuss your case.
