GLP-1s like Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Wegovy have been making headlines since they became available. Initially introduced as a treatment option for diabetes, these drugs are gaining popularity with potential indications for everything from weight loss to heart disease.
But the latest news includes reports of debilitating, life-changing side effects – and emerging lawsuits alleging that drug companies have not done enough to warn patients of complications.
Reports of Severe Complications Tied to Weight-Loss Drugs
Dana Filmore, an Ohio woman who shared her story with the Cincinnati Enquirer, can’t eat without vomiting after taking Ozempic. Even though she stopped taking the medication six months ago, she reports that severe symptoms leave her afraid to eat.
“The solids are really difficult on me,” she said. “My body just rejects it.”
Filmore’s life has been upended by nausea, vomiting and lack of bowel control caused by a condition called gastroparesis, which is stomach paralysis.
And she’s not alone: nearly 22,000 cases of side effects have been reported to the FDA just for Ozempic.
Lawsuits Allege Drug Companies Failed to Warn Patients of GLP-1 Risks
To date, hundreds of lawsuits have emerged that claim drug companies have not done enough to warn patients of potential complications.
Dana Filmore joins nearly 3,000 people from all kinds of backgrounds in one such suit against Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly, the makers of Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. The suit alleges that the two companies failed to warn them of serious risks associated with the drugs.
The drug manufacturers maintain that such side effects are temporary and rare. However, stories like Dana’s are not uncommon. Of the 21,638 cases of side effects reported, 43% include gastrointestinal conditions such as gastroparesis. Early research indicates that gastroparesis could occur in 1% of patients—which could be catastrophic considering that millions of Americans are on these medications.
What Are the Side Effects of GLP-1s?
According to the current warning label, common side effects of GLP-1s are:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Other mild gastrointestinal issues
More severe reported side effects that have been reported – but not included on the warning label – include:
- Gastroparesis
- Intestinal blockages
- Inflammation of the pancreas
- Blood clots
- Eye disease
While GLP-1s like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro are effective treatments for diabetes, they certainly present risks. With lawsuits piling up, patient education is more important than ever.