Despite doctors constantly reminding us that the key to weight loss is calories consumed versus calories burned, drug manufacturers continue to try to find ways to get around this tried-and-true method of diet and exercise. Indeed, weight loss drugs, devices, programs, and other products or services have been booming in the United States since the 1980s. Although the types of products or services have cycled over the years, our Ozempic injury lawyer knows that injectable weight loss drugs such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and many others are currently the most popular weight loss products in the United States. Although many people have had safe and good results from using these injectables, that is not always the case.
Indeed, studies indicate that the majority of Americans have heard of these injectables and more than half agree that they are good options for individuals with obesity or other weight-related health conditions. It is estimated that about 13% of all Americans have tried at least one type of injectable weight loss drug, with about half or 15.5 million Americans using either Ozempic or Wegovy specifically. Despite being marketed to those with certain health conditions, another study has found that injectable weight loss drug use has skyrocketed by almost 600% amongst individuals aged from 12 to 25 years old, notably amongst women. Unfortunately, like many other substances, it can be and has been abused as a “magic bullet” for weight loss by people who do not otherwise qualify for it. This has resulted in a nearly 1,500% increase in calls related to injectable drug overdoses to poison control centers. However, as our Ozempic injury lawyer knows, it has also resulted in an increase in serious health conditions such as stomach paralysis, bowel obstructions, pancreatitis, vision impairment, and other injuries.
Medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and other injectables have gained popularity as treatments for diabetes, obesity, and other weight-related ailments or conditions. Although these drugs offer promising benefits, and have both clinical results as well as obvious results from users, these drugs also come with some serious risks of injury. Unfortunately, some users have experienced serious, debilitating, and life-changing side effects or complications from these drugs. Some of these complications have even been life-threatening.
Whenever a drug manufacturer markets a dangerous, defective, or risky drug, they could be liable for injuries or damages associated with it. This is particularly true if they were aware of these dangers but failed to provide adequate warnings to doctors, practice drugs, patients, and others. As a result, victims and their families who have suffered complications from these drugs may be entitled to compensation under the law with the help of our Ozempic injury lawyer in Kentucky.
If you or a loved one taking any semaglutide injectable for weight loss were diagnosed with any of these major medical conditions, continuing reading more about which drugs and what conditions may entitled you to compensation. Our Ozempic injury lawyer is happy to discuss your legal options with you and your family during a free consultation.
Some of the most devastating conditions caused by conditions that may leave manufacturers liable include the following:
The two most popular weight loss injectables are Ozempic and Wegovy. Both are medications primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity. They are brand names for the drug semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, which mimics the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) hormone. This synthetic version of the naturally occurring GLP-1 hormone which binds to GLP-1 receptors in the body, enhancing insulin secretion when blood sugar levels are high and reducing the liver’s glucose production. Additionally, it slows down gastric emptying and promotes satiety, contributing to weight loss. Thus, this hormone plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels and appetite, and therefore helping individuals manage their weight.
Ozempic is primarily prescribed for managing type 2 diabetes. It helps control blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin secretion, inhibiting glucagon release, and slowing gastric emptying. By doing so, it helps reduce blood sugar spikes after meals. Ozempic is typically administered as a once-weekly injection, which makes it convenient for patients who struggle with daily medication regimens. In addition to its primary role in diabetes management, Ozempic has been found to promote weight loss. This is a beneficial side effect for many patients with type 2 diabetes, as excess weight can exacerbate their condition.
Wegovy is specifically approved for weight management in adults with obesity or overweight individuals with weight-related medical conditions. Like Ozempic, Wegovy works by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone, but its dosage is higher, making it more effective for weight loss. Wegovy helps reduce appetite and increase feelings of fullness, leading to decreased calorie intake and subsequent weight loss. Patients typically start with a lower dose of Wegovy, which is gradually increased over 16-20 weeks to minimize potential side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is administered as a once-weekly injection, similar to Ozempic.
Rybelsus is an oral medication used to manage type 2 diabetes. It contains semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, similar to Ozempic and Wegovy but in a pill form. Rybelsus helps lower blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin secretion, reducing glucagon release, and slowing gastric emptying. This mechanism aids in better glycemic control and can also contribute to weight loss. Patients typically take Rybelsus once daily, 30 minutes before the first meal of the day, ensuring its optimal absorption and effectiveness. Although it is not an injectable, it carries many of the same side effects and risks as Ozempic and Wegovy.
Mounjaro, also known as tirzepatide, is a medication used for managing type 2 diabetes. It acts as a dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and GLP-1 receptor agonist. By activating these receptors, Mounjaro enhances insulin secretion, suppresses glucagon release, and slows gastric emptying, thereby improving blood sugar control. Additionally, it helps reduce appetite and promotes weight loss. Mounjaro is administered once weekly via subcutaneous injection, offering convenience and effectiveness for patients with type 2 diabetes.
Zepbound (terzepatide) is an investigational medication for type 2 diabetes and obesity management. As a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist, Zepbound works by enhancing insulin secretion, reducing glucagon levels, and delaying gastric emptying. These actions help lower blood sugar levels and support weight loss. Zepbound’s dual mechanism offers a novel approach to managing these conditions, potentially providing greater efficacy compared to single-agent therapies. It is administered through weekly injections, making it a convenient option for patients.
Trulicity (dulaglutide) is a GLP-1 receptor agonist used to treat type 2 diabetes. It helps regulate blood sugar by stimulating insulin release, inhibiting glucagon secretion, and slowing gastric emptying. Trulicity also promotes weight loss by increasing feelings of fullness. It is administered once weekly via injection, offering a convenient and effective option for diabetes management. Trulicity has been shown to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events, making it a beneficial choice for patients with type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular risk factors.
There are many potential side effects of weight loss injectables that should be troubling for doctors and patients. Many of these side effects are known or were previously known by manufacturers, but were not displayed, under disclosed, delayed in disclosed, or the risks were otherwise minimized. Indeed, many of these side effects are potentially devastating for patients, especially when combined with other comorbidities or the other side effects. Although a drug is not illegal because it has side effects, this does not mean that a manufacturer may not be liable for having to pay for damages caused by the drug.
Some of the most common side effects of Ozempic, Wegovy, and others on the list provided above by our Ozempic injury lawyer include the following:
There are many general side effects that can be caused by any of these weight loss drugs, including Ozempic, that our Ozempic injury lawyer can help victims and their families recover compensation for under the law. Some of the most common side effects include:
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation are frequently reported. These symptoms often occur when starting the medication or increasing the dose. They usually diminish as the body adjusts, but in some cases, they can be persistent and severe enough to require discontinuation of the medication. Individuals who do not take in enough water can become dehydrated and suffer injuries from that too, including organ damage, damage to eyesight, and other complications that come with dehydration.
Redness, swelling, or itching at the injection site can occur. These reactions are typically mild and temporary but can be bothersome for some users. There is always a risk of injury from the actual injection, but that isn’t necessarily the manufacturer’s fault. However, that is a potential risk and can happen as well. But other types of drug reactions from the injection are possible, some requiring emergency medical attention.
Although many side effects are manageable, there are more serious risks associated with Ozempic, Wegovy, and the other weight loss injectables and pill forms that we noted above. Some of these very serious side effects include the following:
The most common and potentially the most severe complication from Ozempic is stomach paralysis, or frozen stomach, which is medically known as gastroparesis. This is a condition where the muscles of the stomach are unable to contract normally. Specifically, gastroparesis is characterized by the stomach’s inability to move food effectively through the digestive tract. Normally, the stomach muscles contract to break down food and push it into the small intestine. In gastroparesis, these contractions are weak or absent, causing food to remain in the stomach for an abnormally long time.
The exact mechanism by which semaglutides cause gastroparesis is not entirely understood, but it is believed to be related to their effect on gastric motility. Semaglutides are GLP-1 receptor agonists that mimic the action of the glucagon-like peptide-1 hormone. One of their actions is to slow gastric emptying to help control postprandial (after-meal) blood sugar levels. While this is beneficial for managing diabetes, it can sometimes excessively delay gastric emptying, leading to gastroparesis in some patients. Although gastroparesis itself is not usually fatal, its complications can be life-threatening. Severe dehydration, malnutrition, and aspiration pneumonia are particularly dangerous. Additionally, for diabetic patients, the difficulty in managing blood sugar levels can lead to acute complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS), both of which can be fatal if not promptly treated.
Any weight loss injectable user who was diagnosed with stomach paralysis or gastroparesis, or who has any of the symptoms or signs of this type of condition, should contact our Ozempic injury lawyer to learn more about their rights under the law. You may be entitled to compensation for your personal injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and conscious pain and suffering caused by these drugs.
Inflammation of the pancreas is a serious but rare side effect. Symptoms include severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Pancreatitis can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. Patients with a history of pancreatitis should use these medications with caution. Pancreatitis can lead to permanent damage and death, and it is a very serious condition that should never be ignored. Patients who developed pancreatitis while on Ozempic, Wegovy, or any other type of weight loss drug, contact our Ozempic injury lawyer in Kentucky at the Maze Law Offices.
Nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) is a serious eye condition characterized by sudden vision loss due to impaired blood flow to the optic nerve. Recently, there has been concern about the potential link between NAION and the use of certain weight loss medications, including Ozempic and other semaglutide injectables like those mentioned above. Although it is not clear how these injectables are causing NAION, it is hypothesized that the drug’s effect on blood pressure and vascular tone may contribute to reduced blood flow to the optic nerve in susceptible users.
NAION typically presents as sudden, painless vision loss in one eye, often noticeable upon waking. The condition occurs when blood supply to the optic nerve is compromised, leading to ischemia and damage to the nerve fibers. Risk factors for NAION include a crowded optic disc (a structural feature of the eye), diabetes, hypertension, and other cardiovascular conditions – any of these conditions which are being treated by Ozempic, Wegovy, and other injectables.
Esophageal injury from Ozempic, Wegovy, and other injectables is a rare but serious complication. It can occur due to the drug’s effect on gastrointestinal motility, potentially leading to esophagitis or erosions. Symptoms may include difficulty swallowing, chest pain, and heartburn. Patients with a history of gastrointestinal disorders should use Ozempic cautiously, because studies have connected this condition to weight loss injectables. Prompt recognition and medical intervention are essential to prevent further complications, including disabling and potentially life-threatening complications that could result in the wrongful death of a user.
The potential link between Ozempic, Wegovy, and other weight loss injectables and pancreatic cancer is a topic of ongoing research. Some studies have raised concerns that GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic may increase the risk of pancreatic inflammation, which could contribute to the development of cancer. Symptoms of pancreatic cancer include jaundice, weight loss, and abdominal pain. Although a definitive connection has not been established, patients with risk factors for pancreatic disease should discuss the risks and benefits of Ozempic with their healthcare provider. Regular monitoring and early detection strategies are important for those at higher risk, or choosing to not receive these injectables is often the best solution.
Pulmonary aspiration is a condition where food or liquid enters the lungs, leading to respiratory complications. In rare cases, weight loss injectables may slow gastric emptying to the extent that it increases the risk of aspiration, particularly in patients with swallowing disorders. Symptoms of aspiration include coughing, choking, and shortness of breath. To mitigate this risk, patients with a history of aspiration or swallowing difficulties should be carefully assessed before starting Ozempic, Wegovy, or any other injectables. Modifying the administration of the drug and monitoring for respiratory symptoms can help prevent this serious complication that can be lift-threatening and fatal.
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) involves the formation of blood clots in deep veins, usually in the legs. Although weight loss injectables are not directly associated with DVT, its use in patients with multiple risk factors for clotting disorders, such as obesity or prolonged immobility, may increase that risk unnecessarily. In fact, some research has indicated that semaglutide users have had a 266% increase of DVT, but the link between semaglutide and the occurrence of DVTs is not immediately clear. Symptoms of DVT include leg pain, swelling, and redness. Since DVT can lead to life-threatening complications like a pulmonary embolism (also known as a PE), patients on Ozempic, Wegovy, or any other injectable with known risk factors should be monitored closely for signs of thrombosis and advised on preventive measures like maintaining mobility and hydration.
Weight loss injectables can increase the risk of gallbladder disease, including gallstones and cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder). Symptoms to watch for include severe abdominal pain, particularly in the upper right side, fever, and jaundice. This is a very serious condition that can result in the loss of a gallbladder. Although an individual can live without a gallbladder, it does not mean that an individual is not entitled to compensation for the loss of this organ and the pain and suffering associated with the surgery. As a result, individuals who are injured by weight loss injectables and suffer gallbladder disease should call our legal team for help.
Animal studies have shown that semaglutide can cause thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). Although it is unclear if this risk extends to humans, patients with a personal or family history of MTC or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) are advised against using these medications. However, thyroid cancer is very serious and often devastating. Anyone who is diagnosed with thyroid cancer while taking any type of weight loss drug should contact the Maze Law Offices for a free consultation.
Semaglutide can cause dehydration due to gastrointestinal side effects, potentially leading to acute kidney injury. Patients with pre-existing kidney disease should be closely monitored. What is interesting is that, when taken properly, studies indicate that weight loss drugs like Ozempic actually help reduce the risk of kidney problems. However, when doctors are not telling patients that they need to drink a lot of water and more than normal, it could cause injuries to patients and kidney damage. Sometimes this is because doctors don’t know from the manufacturer to tell their patients to drink more in the first place, which is part of the drug manufacturer’s failure to warn. As a result, many individuals could suffer serious complications from weight loss drugs due to kidney injuries and problems.
Rapid improvement in blood sugar control can temporarily worsen diabetic retinopathy, a diabetes-related eye condition. Patients with a history of this condition should have regular eye exams while using these medications. In fact, a recent study and release from the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the North American Neuro-Ophthalmology Society issued a statement that anyone who is taking a weight loss injectable with semaglutide and has a sharp or sudden loss of vision, should immediately stop taking the drug and get evaluated by a doctor. That’s because this drug is linked to a condition that can cause blindness, and it is a very serious risk for patients. If you or a loved one suffered any type of eye injury or damage from any weight loss injectable or drug, call our Ozempic injury lawyer for help.
There have been reports of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in patients using GLP-1 receptor agonists. It is important for patients and healthcare providers to monitor for signs of depression or suicidal thoughts. This is a very serious side effect that can come on fast and strong, and result in serious personal injuries in an attempt or the wrongful death of an innocent person who succumbs to the pressures of this drug.
Given that these medications suppress appetite, there is a potential risk for developing disordered eating patterns. Patients with a history of eating disorders should use these medications with caution and under close supervision. That includes bulimia or anorexia, both which can result in fatal consequences for victims. In fact, some eating disorders can become a life-time problem for patients, and only start while taking weight loss drugs. When patients come off of these drugs, they may feel the pressure to stay skinny, and develop these eating disorders.
Ozempic, Wegovy, and other types of injectables for weight loss can interact with other medications, potentially leading to adverse effects or reduced efficacy. In fact, not all of these interactions are fully known and understood, whereas other complications are understated. This can be dangerous for victims who may suffer serious complications. Some of the key interactions include the following:
Combining semaglutide with insulin or other antidiabetic medications can increase the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Patients should monitor their blood sugar levels closely and adjust dosages as needed.
Because semaglutide slows gastric emptying, it can affect the absorption of oral medications. This is particularly important for medications with a narrow therapeutic index, such as warfarin and digoxin. But it is also important for even common and everyday drugs, like ibuprofen, which can become caustic to the stomach or intestines if they are taken without food or allowed to sit in the stomach when not diluted.
The long-term safety of Ozempic and Wegovy for weight loss is still being studied. Although short-term trials have shown promising results, as well as the obvious results that some people are sharing, the long-term data is needed to fully understand the potential risks. This includes risks to cardiovascular health, bone health, and dangers for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, as well as those who are elderly or have other health considerations.
However, despite only being on the market for a few years and despite only becoming popular the last year, these weight loss drugs are already showing up with complications. Some are very serious, like stomach paralysis, pancreatitis, and blindness. Other complications can lead to permanent injuries and even debilitating ones.
Unfortunately, we have been in this position before with weight loss drugs. They are commonly in the news because they result in drastic results. Although effective, they can be dangerous. And as previously found from other drugs, like Fen-Phen, patients who are harmed by drug companies may be entitled to compensation for their injuries.
Fen-Phen, a combination of fenfluramine and phentermine, was once heralded as a revolutionary weight loss drug in the 1990s. Marketed as an effective solution for obesity, Fen-Phen quickly gained popularity just like Ozempic and Wegovy. However, the drug’s success was short-lived as it became linked to severe health complications, leading to its withdrawal from the market and a cascade of lawsuits and settlements.
Like Ozempic, Fen-Phen worked to suppress appetite and reduce hungry. It combined drugs that helped to suppresses appetite by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, and a stimulant that reduces hunger. Together, these drugs were intended to create a potent appetite-suppressing effect, helping patients achieve significant weight loss. It worked and users had excellent results.
But despite its initial success, Fen-Phen was soon associated with serious adverse health effects. The most significant complications included Heart Valve Disease (HVD), which a main ingredient was found to cause damage to the heart valves, leading to valvular heart disease. Patients experienced symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, and heart murmurs. The damage was often severe and required surgical intervention. Another complication was primary pulmonary hypertension (PPH), a rare but life-threatening disorder characterized by high blood pressure in the lungs’ arteries. Symptoms included difficulty breathing, dizziness, and swelling in the legs and ankles. PPH often led to heart failure and was frequently fatal, especially when combined with HVD.
As reports of these serious side effects emerged, the medical community and regulatory agencies grew increasingly concerned. In 1997, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requested the withdrawal of fenfluramine and dexfenfluramine (another component used in some Fen-Phen combinations) from the market. This action effectively ended the use of Fen-Phen.
The withdrawal of Fen-Phen led to a flood of lawsuits against American Home Products, the pharmaceutical company that marketed the drug (later known as Wyeth and eventually acquired by Pfizer). Plaintiffs alleged that the company failed to adequately warn about the potential risks and complications associated with Fen-Phen. One of the largest legal actions was a nationwide class action lawsuit. In 1999, a settlement agreement was reached, creating a fund of over $3.75 billion to compensate affected patients. This settlement covered medical costs, compensation for pain and suffering, and other related expenses.
There were also many individual lawsuits too. Many contacted law firms that handle weight loss drug cases, like the Maze Law Offices, and individuals filed personal injury lawsuits. These cases often resulted in substantial settlements or jury awards for plaintiffs who suffered severe health problems due to Fen-Phen. This could also happen with Ozempic, Wegovy, and other weight loss injectables. Victims should hire an experienced Ozempic injury lawyer like ours for help with their potential case.
Bowling Green, Kentucky, has recently gained national attention as the leading city in the U.S. for Ozempic prescriptions, a trend driven by its residents’ determination to address obesity. Despite its small size and modest income levels, this vibrant community is embracing weight loss solutions like Ozempic, Wegovy, and other injectable medications at unprecedented rates. However, with this surge in usage comes an increased risk of injuries and health complications.
If you or a loved one in Bowling Green, KY have suffered from adverse effects related to these medications, our dedicated Ozempic injury lawyer in Kentucky is here to provide the legal support you need. We understand the unique challenges facing the residents of Bowling Green, and our team is committed to helping you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Chandler Maze, Ozempic Injury Lawyer
If you have been receiving weight loss injectables like Ozempic or Wegovy and suffered any serious health complications, you may be entitled to compensation against the manufacturer. Victims and their families who are injured by these drugs may have been harmed by dangerous combinations, a failure to warn, overdosing, and other negligent acts. Although manufacturers may be aware of some of these risks, some risks may have been under-reported or explained in order to keep profits up – despite the harm they cause to people.
Our personal injury attorney in Kentucky can help victims and their families recover compensation for their personal injuries caused by these weight loss drugs. To learn more about your rights to compensation, contact us today by calling or online. The Maze Law Offices are committed to seeking justice for victims and their families, and we will stand up to the largest drug manufacturers, retailers, testers, and their insurance adjusters or defense lawyers to ensure that your rights are protected under the law. Learn more by contacting us now.
