The use of Weight-loss drug Ozempic, a prescription medication primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes and as a treatment for obesity, has seen a significant rise in recent years. While Ozempic, with its active ingredient semaglutide, has been lauded for its effectiveness in lowering blood sugar levels and aiding in weight loss, there has also been a growing concern regarding its potential side effects. Some patients have reported experiencing serious adverse reactions after taking Ozempic, leading to an increase in lawsuits against the drug’s manufacturer.
The Ozempic attorneys of Goza & Honnold offer guidance on how affected parties can understand their rights, the process of filing a lawsuit, and what compensation they may expect if they have been adversely affected by the medication (The Timeline of Ozempic Lawsuits) . Lawsuits against the manufacturer of Ozempic generally allege the pharmaceutical company failed to properly warn patients and healthcare professionals about potential risks and side effects of the drug. For clients who have been severely injured after taking Ozempic, we will seek economic and non-economic compensation on behalf of our clients for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to the adverse effects of Ozempic.
Overview of Ozempic Side Effects
Recent reports have shown that semaglutide-based medications carry undisclosed risks and harmful side effects. The manufacturers of these medications have come under scrutiny for not properly informing both healthcare professionals and patients about these potential dangers.
Ozempic use may lead to several adverse health conditions, including pancreatitis. If you experience intense abdominal pain that persists, possibly extending to your back, with or without vomiting, or if you notice changes in your vision, it is important to contact your doctor or seek medical attention.
Additionally, hypoglycemia is a potential risk of taking Ozempic, especially when Ozempic is combined with other medications known to lower blood sugar, like sulfonylureas or insulin. Symptoms of hypoglycemia can range from dizziness, blurred vision, changes in mood, sweating, and confusion to more severe signs like weakness, rapid heartbeat, and jitteriness.
Individuals with existing kidney issues should be aware that diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting can lead to dehydration and worsening kidney function. It is essential to stay hydrated to mitigate this risk. Gallbladder issues have also been reported, including upper abdominal pain, fever, jaundice, or clay-colored stools. Immediate medical attention is necessary if you experience allergy symptoms such as facial swelling, difficulty breathing or swallowing, intense rash or itchiness, fainting, or a fast heartbeat.
The FDA’s Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) has received over 10,000 reports of adverse events related to semaglutide up to the fourth quarter of 2020 these include a significant number of gallbladder-related disorders, with Ozempic, Rybelsus, and Weand being identified as suspect powers in many of these reports.
Recent studies have raised concerns about the potential link between Ozempic (semaglutide) and an increased risk of blood clots, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). A 2021 study published in the Endocrine Journal found that individuals taking semaglutide had a 266% increased risk of developing DVT compared to those not on the medication.
How Might Ozempic Contribute to Blood Clots?
Researchers and medical experts continue to investigate the potential link between Ozempic and the development of blood clots, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The active ingredient in Ozempic, semaglutide, is classified as a GLP-1 agonist, a drug designed to help manage blood glucose levels. While it is effective in treating type 2 diabetes and aiding in weight loss, semaglutide is also associated with various side effects, including those that may increase the risk of blood clots.
One possible explanation lies in the side effects of diarrhea and dehydration that are commonly reported by Ozempic users. Extended dehydration caused by persistent diarrhea can lead to increased blood viscosity, making the blood thicker and more prone to clotting. Individuals with higher blood viscosity are at a heightened risk for blood clots, including DVT, which can also increase the likelihood of heart attacks and strokes.
The PIONEER and SUSTAIN trials – a comprehensive review of semaglutide studies – support these concerns. The trials note that dehydration resulting from diarrhea may elevate blood viscosity, potentially increasing the risk of DVT. Additionally, researchers have raised questions about whether the weight loss associated with semaglutide may also contribute to the likelihood of developing blood clots, emphasizing the need for further study.
Certain patient-specific factors may also play a role in the risk of blood clots while using Ozempic. Pre-existing conditions such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, or clotting disorders can exacerbate the likelihood of developing DVT. This underscores the importance of evaluating individual risk factors before starting semaglutide-based treatments.
As the medical community continues to study the relationship between Ozempic, blood clots, DVT, and pulmonary embolisms (PEs), patients are encouraged to discuss potential side effects with their doctors. Regular monitoring and timely communication with healthcare providers can help identify and manage symptoms of blood clots early, reducing the risk of serious complications.
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in the deep veins, typically in the legs. Symptoms may include:
- Swelling in one leg
- Pain or tenderness in the leg
- Warm skin
- Red or discolored skin on the leg
If left untreated, DVT can lead to serious complications, such as a pulmonary embolism.
Pulmonary Embolism (PE)
A pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs, blocking a pulmonary artery. Symptoms can include:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Fainting
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Lightheadedness
- Coughing up blood
PE is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.
Legal Options to Pursue Compensation in an Ozempic Lawsuit
Individuals who have experienced blood clots after using Ozempic are pursuing legal action against the manufacturer, Novo Nordisk, alleging failure to warn about these risks adequately. If you or a loved one has suffered from DVT or PE after taking Ozempic, it’s important to seek legal counsel to understand your rights and options.
Goza & Honnold is currently undertaking and pursuing legal actions for individuals harmed by semaglutide/weight loss medications. If you have suffered from negative effects while or after using Ozempic or similar semaglutide/weight loss treatments, you may be eligible for recovering economic and non-economic damages.
We are specifically looking into claims of product liability involving the following Ozempic injuries:
- Gastroparesis: This condition, also known as “stomach paralysis,” occurs when the stomach’s nerves and muscles fail to function correctly, halting the normal movement of food through the digestive system.
- Ileus: This refers to the obstruction of the ileum (part of the small intestine) or a general blockage in the intestines. Ileus or intestinal blockages are serious conditions that may require urgent medical intervention, potentially including surgery, and can cause lasting damage.
- Severe and Chronic Vomiting: This type of vomiting is so intense that it necessitates overnight hospitalization (not simply an emergency room visit). While vomiting itself is temporary, the repercussions, such as dehydration, kidney failure, and esophageal damage due to prolonged acid exposure, can be significant.
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Other Blood Clots: DVT is a clot in the leg that can become fatal if it evolves into a pulmonary embolism, a clot in the lungs.
- Gallbladder Removal: Known medically as a cholecystectomy, removing the gallbladder may be necessary due to gallstones or other gallbladder-related issues causing severe abdominal pain. Our investigation includes those who needed gallbladder removal surgery while taking or within 21 days after stopping Ozempic before March 2022.
- Intestinal Obstruction: This can result from constipation, dehydration, and slowed movement of food through the gastrointestinal tract.
- Suicidal Ideations and Suicide Attempts: We are also evaluating claims related to suicidal thoughts and attempts linked to the use of these medications.
The Ozempic attorneys of Goza & Honnold are committed to supporting victims of Ozempic and semaglutide injuries by holding negligent parties accountable for their losses by seeking legal action against the maker of Ozempic and other semaglutide drugs
Speak With the Ozempic Lawyers of Goza & Honnold Today
As Ozempic’s use in treating type 2 diabetes and obesity has surged, so have concerns over its undisclosed and potentially harmful side effects. Despite its benefits in lowering blood sugar and aiding weight loss, reports of serious adverse reactions have led to legal claims against its manufacturer. If you have been harmed by Ozempic or other semaglutide-based weight loss drugs, you may be entitled to seek compensation for your losses.
At Goza & Honnold, we specialize in advocating for those affected by these medications, guiding you through understanding your legal rights, the lawsuit process, and the potential for compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. Our team of Ozempic lawyers is deeply committed to achieving justice for victims of semaglutide injuries by pursuing those responsible for failing to warn of the drug’s risks.
Contact the Ozempic lawyers of Goza & Honnold today by calling (913) 451-3433 or filling out a contact form.