Weight Loss and Diabetes Drug Lawsuit

Ozempic (semaglutide) is a prescription medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. Ozempic works by stimulating insulin production and reducing glucose production in the liver, helping to lower blood sugar levels.

Though both Wegovy and Ozempic contain the same active compound, Wegovy contains a much higher dose of semaglutide. It received FDA approval as a weight loss medication in 2021, the first new weight loss medication to gain approval in several years.

Saxenda is a GLP-1 medication that delivers an active compound called liraglutide.

Liraglutide was originally approved by the FDA in 2010 as an adjunct therapy to diet and exercise for the management of type 2 diabetes sold under the brand name Victoza.

But following clinical trial results, liraglutide, sold under the name Saxenda, gained approval in 2017 as a weight loss medication for people with a BMI of 30 or higher or for people with a BMI of 27 and higher who also have a metabolic health condition.

Saxenda is not used to treat type 2 diabetes.

Rybelsus is an oral medicine that can be used as a first-line medication to improve blood sugar control in adults over the age of 18 with type 2 diabetes. It works by mimicking the effects of GLP-1, a naturally occurring hormone that stimulates insulin secretion and lowers glucagon secretion from the liver. People stabilized on Rybelsus tablets can be transferred to Ozempic subcutaneous injection.

Trulicity (generic name: dulaglutide) is a medication used in the treatment of Type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of drugs known as glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RA).

Trulicity works by mimicking the action of a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which helps regulate blood sugar levels. By activating GLP-1 receptors, Trulicity can increase insulin secretion, decrease glucagon (a hormone that raises blood sugar levels), slow down stomach emptying, and promote a feeling of fullness after meals.

Zepbound™ a tirzepatide injection specifically authorized for chronic weight management in adults with obesity. The FDA approval indicated that Zepbound side effects can include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, abdominal pain, and other symptoms.

According to the Mayo Clinic, there is no known cure for gastroparesis, although withdrawal of the drug may bring an end to it. Gastroparesis can cause major complications in the body, like dehydration, malnutrition, and a decreased quality of life.

According to Novo Nordisk, gastrointestinal (GI), events are “well-known side effects of the GLP-1 class.

“For semaglutide, the majority of GI side effects are mild to moderate in severity and of short duration,” Novo Nordisk said. “GLP-1’s are known to cause a delay in gastric emptying, as noted in the label of each of our GLP-1 RA medications. Symptoms of delayed gastric emptying, nausea, and vomiting are listed as side effects.” 

While Ozempic’s weight loss effects on the body have been hailed as a miracle, the drug, unfortunately, has an impact on the body’s hormones. It mimics a hormone called GLP-1, which regulates insulin and keeps food in your stomach longer. Digestion is aided by a contraction of the stomach muscles, which helps empty the food out of your stomach. But when food stays in your stomach for too long, or the muscles slow down too much, it can cause intense nausea.

If you believe you have been experiencing adverse side effects caused by a weight loss treatment, it is important to, first and foremost, get immediate medical treatment for your symptoms. Your next best step is to take action to protect your rights. Here are some steps you can take:

• Consult with an attorney: Speak with an experienced attorney who is focused on Ozempic or other related lawsuits. They can evaluate your case and guide you through the legal process.
• Gather evidence: Collect any medical records, prescriptions, and other relevant documents that can support your claim.
• Keep a record: Document any symptoms, side effects, or complications you have experienced as a result of taking a weight loss drug.
• Act promptly: There may be a statute of limitations that limits the time you have to file a lawsuit. Contact an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you don't miss any deadlines. 

When you’ve experienced serious harm due to the negligence of others, then you should take serious action. At Morgan & Morgan, we have fought for the rights of victims nationwide for over 35 years and have recovered over $20 billion in damages. As the largest personal injury law firm in the country, we proudly use our size and resources to fight even the biggest of opponents to help victims fight for the maximum compensation they need and deserve for the needless suffering they’ve experienced.

If you have taken Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, Rybelsus, Saxenda, or other weight loss drugs and are experiencing adverse side effects or have questions about the drug’s safety, reach out to Morgan & Morgan for a free, no-obligation case evaluation to learn more. You might be eligible to pursue compensation that can be used to cover medical bills and more.