Ozempic and Mounjaro Manufacturers Face Lawsuits over “Stomach-Related Side Effects”

HealthWatch: Lawsuit filed against Ozempic and Mounjaro manufacturers

Introduction

A personal injury law firm, Morgan & Morgan, has filed a lawsuit against Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly and Co., the manufacturers of weight loss drugs Ozempic and Mounjaro. The lawsuit claims that these diabetes drugs, which are known for aiding weight loss, can cause gastroparesis, a paralysis of the stomach. The attorneys heading up the lawsuit assert that the basis of the suit is “a failure to warn.” The filing of this lawsuit raises important questions about the safety and ethical responsibility of drug manufacturers, as well as the potential risks associated with using weight loss medications.

The Lawsuit

Attorneys Paul Pennock and Jonathan Sedgh from Morgan & Morgan held a news conference to announce the filing of the lawsuit. They emphasized that they believe these drugs are causing the reported problems and intend to file many more cases in the coming days and weeks. The first case filed involves a 44-year-old woman from Louisiana who has taken both Ozempic and Mounjaro at the recommendation of her doctor. She has experienced severe symptoms, including multiple visits to the emergency room and violent vomiting that has even resulted in tooth loss. The plaintiff is seeking financial compensation but has not yet received an official diagnosis of gastroparesis.

Pennock states that his firm is currently investigating 400 inquiries from clients across 45 states. This suggests that there may be a significant number of individuals affected by potential side effects related to the use of these weight loss drugs.

Gastroparesis and the Safety of GLP-1 Agonists

Gastroparesis, also known as delayed gastric emptying, is a disorder that slows or stops the movement of food from the stomach to the small intestine, despite the absence of any blockage. It is most commonly associated with diabetes, particularly poorly controlled or long-standing cases. The reasons behind the occurrence of gastroparesis in patients taking GLP-1 agonist medications, such as Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Wegovy, remain unclear.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) states that if newly identified safety signals are found regarding the GLP-1 agonist medications used in patients with type 2 diabetes, appropriate actions will be determined after a thorough review of the evidence. While gastrointestinal events are known side effects of the GLP-1 class, the severity and duration of these side effects vary.

Manufacturer Responsibilites

Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly and Co., the manufacturers of Ozempic and Mounjaro, respectively, have responded to the lawsuit. Novo Nordisk notes that gastrointestinal side effects are well-known and listed in the medication labels. Eli Lilly and Co. emphasizes that patient safety is their top priority and that they actively monitor and report safety information for all their medicines. While these statements suggest that the manufacturers are aware of the potential side effects, the question remains as to whether adequate warnings and disclosures were provided to patients and healthcare professionals.

Editorial & Implications

This lawsuit raises important ethical and legal considerations. It highlights the responsibility of drug manufacturers to provide accurate and comprehensive information about potential side effects associated with their products. Patients have the right to know the potential risks and benefits of any medication they are prescribed.

Furthermore, this case underscores the importance of ongoing research and surveillance to identify and understand the potential long-term impacts of weight loss drugs. While these medications have been shown to aid in weight loss, it is crucial to assess their safety and efficacy thoroughly. Patients should be fully informed about potential side effects before deciding to use these medications.

Advice for Patients

If you are currently using Ozempic, Mounjaro, or any other weight loss medication, it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider regarding any concerns or questions you may have. Although this lawsuit brings attention to potential side effects, it is crucial not to abruptly stop using any prescribed medication without medical guidance. Doctors can provide personalized advice based on your specific health condition and individual needs. Open and honest communication between patients and healthcare professionals remains paramount.