Multidistrict Litigation Filed Against Ozempic; Cases Estimated to Reach over 10,000
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), rates of obesity have steadily increased over the past few decades, with a staggering 41.2% of adults in the United States considered obese based on their body mass index (BMI). This means that nearly half of all adults in the U.S. are categorized as obese.
Amidst the escalating challenges of obesity, pharmaceutical companies are actively promoting the efficacy of Ozempic and other GLP-1 receptor agonists for weight loss, which have garnered significant attention in the market. However, it is important to recognize that these medications are prescription-only and have primarily been used to treat Type 2 Diabetes by mimicking the action of a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. Additionally, Ozempic and other GLP-1 agonists slow down the rate at which food empties from the stomach, contributing to feelings of fullness and reduced food intake.
These drugs should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider and may have side effects that make them unsuitable for everyone. Unfortunately, the manufacturers of Ozempic and other GLP-1 agonists failed to adequately warn of the associated risks.
Currently, numerous lawsuits have been filed by individuals who took Ozempic and later suffered from gastroparesis, a serious disorder that slows the movement of food through the stomach to the small intestine. In severe cases, this condition can cause stomach paralysis. Regrettably, the drug manufacturers neglected to warn of this risk.
The first lawsuit related to stomach paralysis was filed on August 2, 2023, and in February 2024, a Multidistrict Litigation case (MDL) was organized against Ozempic in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, combining at least 55 lawsuits alleging that Ozempic and other GLP-1 RAS class drugs caused severe gastrointestinal injuries. It is estimated that the number of lawsuits could grow to as many as 10,000.
An MDL is a legal process used in United States district courts to handle numerous civil cases across the country that share common issues of fact. The Ozempic MDL consists of multiple plaintiffs from around the nation who have suffered harmful side effects from using Ozempic.
In September 2023, the FDA added intestinal blockage/obstruction and ileus to Ozempic’s warning label.
At Robert Peirce & Associates, we understand the dire consequences individuals face due to dangerous and defective drugs. Our dedicated team specializes in representing clients dealing with such issues.
Aaron Rihn is an attorney at Robert Peirce & Associates, with extensive experience in litigating class actions, pharmaceutical/device cases, civil rights matters, personal injury suits, and professional liability matters. “Sadly, many people who have not achieved significant weight loss through lifestyle changes alone were told Ozempic was safe and had no idea they could potentially suffer from gastroparesis, a dangerous and sometimes deadly disorder,” said Rihn.
Other GLP-1 agonists named in claims like the Ozempic lawsuit include:
- Wegovy
- Mounjaro
- Rybelsus
- Saxenda
- Trulicity
- Zepbound
Symptoms of gastroparesis include nausea, vomiting, abdominal bloating, abdominal pain, severe dehydration, acid reflux, malnutrition, and weight loss. If you have been prescribed Ozempic for weight loss and have experienced any of these symptoms, contact the legal professionals at Robert Peirce & Associates to see if you qualify to be a part of the Ozempic MDL.
For over 40 years, Robert Peirce & Associates has been providing supportive and compassionate legal representation to people injured due to negligent pharmaceutical companies. Contact Aaron Rihn at Robert Peirce & Associates for guidance and expert legal counsel regarding the Ozempic MDL. Call today at 412-281-7229 or visit www.peircelaw.com.