Ozempic Gallbladder Lawsuit

July 3, 2024 | Attorney, Matthew Dolman

Medical studies have shown that consumers who use the prescription drug Ozempic are at an increased risk of suffering from gallstones and other severe gallbladder health complications.

Ozempic, also known by its generic name Semaglutide, is also sold under the commercial names Wegovy and Rybelsus.

This is an antidiabetic medication used to manage the blood sugar levels of people with type 2 diabetes and as an anti-obesity medication for weight management. 

Can You Bring an Ozempic Gallbladder Lawsuit?

Ozempic Gallbladder Lawsuit

There have been over 10,000 adverse events tied to Ozempic reported to the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Adverse Reporting System (FAERS) through the fourth quarter of 2021.

Many of these adverse events involved gallbladder-related issues such as gallstones and gallbladder inflammation. 

Patients prescribed Ozempic who have suffered gallbladder-related issues such as gallstones (clinically known as cholelithiases) may be entitled to compensation by bringing a defective drug lawsuit against the manufacturer of Ozempic.

Consider contacting the defective drug lawyers of Dolman Law Group today about scheduling a free consultation to determine whether you can seek payment of your legal damages such as medical bills, lost wages, and even pain and suffering in an Ozempic lawsuit. 

Why Consider Dolman Law for Your Ozempic Gallbladder Lawsuit?

Consumers who use prescription drugs understand that many medications come with risks. However, they deserve to be properly warned of these risks so they can make informed decisions about using these medications.

Ozempic should have disclosed the risk of gallbladder illnesses such as gallstones to consumers but failed to do so resulting in severe damages to many uninformed patients. 

Dolman Law Group is a personal injury law firm concentrating on cases involving defective drugs that have harmed consumers.

Our mass tort lawyers have experience handling high-profile lawsuits involving everything from over-the-counter drugs like Tylenol and Zantac to prescription opioids and Ozempic vision loss lawsuits, and Elmiron lawsuits. 

The Ozempic lawyers at Dolman Law Group have a proven track record of success representing harmed consumers in lawsuits against major pharmaceutical companies.

These pharmaceutical companies do not hold back in attaining the best legal representation possible and neither should you. Dolman Law Group offers legal representation that brings over 120 years of combined legal experience and diligence ensuring your voice is heard. 

Ozempic Lawsuit Lawyers

Dolman Law Group Has a Long History of Successful Litigation

Dolman Law Group prides itself on its excellent record of successful cases. Our team of award-winning personal injury lawyers has assisted thousands of clients with difficult legal situations and recovered financial compensation so that they can recover from damages that changed the course of their lives. Some of our case successes include:

  • $400+ Million in Settlements
  • 400+ Settlements That Have Beaten Pre-Trial Offer
  • 40,000+ Clients Helped
  • 120+ Combined Years of Experience

To learn whether you have the right to bring legal action for your losses, let's explore the background of this drug and the injuries that may qualify for compensation in an Ozempic gallbladder lawsuit.

What is Ozempic? 

Ozempic is the brand name of Semaglutide which is sold as an antidiabetic non-insulin medication for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and sometimes weight management as well through control of blood sugar levels. 

The medication was developed by the Danish multinational pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk in 2012 and is the 129th most commonly prescribed medication in the United States with over 4 million prescriptions. Ozempic is not used for type 1 diabetes, diabetic ketoacidosis, or in people who’ve had pancreatitis. 

How and Why is Ozempic Used?

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 Receptor Agonist Analog-Type drug. It mimics the action of the human incretin glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and increases insulin secretion and glycemic control so blood sugar metabolism increases. 

In layman's terms, the drug helps the pancreas release more insulin upon detection of higher blood sugar levels and helps stop the liver from producing and releasing too much sugar to compensate for blood sugar regulation issues caused by type 2 diabetes. 

The drug comes in a liquid form that is injected via a prefilled disposable pen. It is typically administered in one dose weekly in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. 

Injuries Caused by Ozempic Use

Ozempic Lawsuit

These studies of drugs in the same classification as Ozempic have indicated a high risk of gallbladder problems.

The most common of these issues is cholelithiasis also known as gallstones which can be extremely painful and potentially cause severe complications. 

What is Cholelithiasis (Gallstones)?

The most frequently observed side effects of Ozempic included nausea and vomiting, impacting approximately 20% of patients. Similarly, gallstones were documented in around 17% of patients taking Ozempic.

New studies show that Ozempic has shown an increased risk of cholesterol and bilirubin in the gallbladder hardening into what are known as gallstones. The gallbladder stores the bile produced by the liver and while you can live without one, gallbladder issues such as gallstones can impact your general health. 

These gallstones can range in size and block ducts in the gallbladder which creates a buildup of bile that causes sudden pain.

This sudden pain is called a gallbladder attack and requires treatment as soon as possible which often will consist of a cholecystectomy. Symptoms of Cholelithiasis include:

  • Sudden pain in the upper right or the center of the abdomen, or shoulders
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting

What is Cholecystitis?

Cholecystitis is inflammation of the gallbladder that can be caused by gallstones blocking bile ducts. The gallbladder holds digestive fluids, bile, and more that can inflame the gallbladder when they build up. If not treated promptly, complications can arise like gallbladder rupture. Cholecystitis is often treated through gallbladder removal. Cholecystitis symptoms include:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Back and shoulder pain
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Fever

Ozempic Stomach Paralysis (Gastroparesis)

Ozempic use has also been linked to reports of patients dealing with gastroparesis which is a problem where the muscles in the digestive system responsible for moving food through the digestive system slow or fail to function properly.

Gastroparesis, also known as stomach paralysis can cause stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, bloating, and an assortment of other uncomfortable stomach-related symptoms.

Ozempic stomach paralysis lawsuits are being filed by many patients suffering from this ailment, with additional claims being made as more patients come forward to report stomach paralysis problems.

Other drugs such as Wegovy, Mounjaro, Rybelsus, Trulicity, and Saxenda have also been connected to gastroparesis (stomach paralysis) and may also see product liability lawsuits of their own.

If you are suffering symptoms of Ozempic stomach paralysis, Dolman Law Group may be able to help.

Ozempic Gallbladder Lawsuit Updates | February 2024

July 2024: Ozempic MDL Expands with Additional Filings

The Ozempic NDL continues to grow, with six fresh lawsuits bringing the total to 106. We anticipate further expansion of the litigation in the coming weeks.

June 2024: New Judge Takes Helm of Expanding MDL

Following the unexpected passing of the previous judge, the Ozempic MDL found new leadership in U.S. District Judge Karen Marston of Philadelphia. As the month began, 101 cases were pending in the consolidated litigation. Judge Marston swiftly engaged with legal teams, assuring continuity in the proceedings.

May 2024: Unexpected Loss of MDL Judge Temporarily Slows Progress

With 87 cases now part of the MDL, preparations were underway for a "Science Day" scheduled for mid-June. However, the sudden death of Judge Gene E.K. Pratter, 75, who had been overseeing the litigation, caused a brief pause in proceedings. Despite the setback, attorneys pressed forward with their work in the absence of daily judicial oversight.

April 2024: Ozempic Litigation Grows Amid Manufacturers' Defensive Stance

The Ozempic MDL saw continued expansion, reaching 74 pending cases by April 1. Given the drug's widespread use, legal analysts predict significant growth in case numbers. The litigation primarily addresses three key injuries: gastroparesis, ileus, and bowel obstruction.

Plaintiffs' attorneys contested the defendants' assertion that their innovative approach to obesity and diabetes treatment should absolve them of certain legal obligations. The legal team emphasized that despite the drugs' transformative impact, manufacturers remain duty-bound to adequately warn prescribers about potential severe side effects. They argued that the drugs' popularity only heightens this responsibility.

March 2024: Ozempic MDL Established and Assigned

The U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania became the focal point for 18 consolidated Ozempic lawsuits, with Judge Gene E.K. Pratter appointed to oversee the proceedings. An additional 37 cases awaited consolidation. The majority of these legal actions centered on allegations of failure to warn about gastroparesis risk, a condition that impairs digestion and causes severe symptoms. The litigation also encompasses other glucagon-like peptide 1-receptor agonists, including Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Trulicity.

February 2, 2024: JPML Officially Creates Ozempic MDL

In a significant development, the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) has ruled to consolidate the Ozempic lawsuits into a Multidistrict Litigation (MDL). This decision marks a crucial step for claimants who were harmed by the side effects of Ozempic. This consolidation will hopefully streamline the legal process, creating a more efficient path to a resolution.

January 3, 2024: Ely Lilly wants MDL tried elsewhere if included

After news that Eli Lilly does not agree with being added to the MDL, they clarified that if they are included the case should be held in the Southern District of Indiana or the Middle District of North Carolina.

January 2, 2024: Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly Disagree About Support for MDL

Novo Nordisk, the company behind Ozempic, agrees with consolidating all the lawsuits against them. Lawyers for Novo Nordisk agree that the 41 cases in 17 different courts cover the same points about side effects and warnings thus making an MDL easier. Ideally, they want the cases handled in Louisiana or California.

However, Eli Lilly, the maker of Monunjaro, and another defendant in the case oppose being combined into the MDL, claiming that most cases are about Ozempic and its use for weight loss which Lilly says does not apply to them. 

January 1, 2024: Ozempic lawsuit filed in Louisiana causes pushback from Novo Nordisk

Recently, another lawsuit against Ozempic was filed but this time in a Louisiana court. However, the manufacturer and one of the defendants in the case claim that Louisiana does not have jurisdiction and no substantial connection with the state. 

All of this is another short chapter in the saga of combining the lawsuits regarding stomach paralysis and gallbladder issues caused by the drugs into one multidistrict litigation.

December 11, 2023: Louisiana judge partially denies Ozempic’s motion to dismiss

A Louisiana judge has denied the manufacturer of Ozempic (which is being accused of failing to warn doctors and consumers about the potential for serious issues like stomach paralysis and gallbladder problems) request to dismiss the lawsuit, at least partially. The judge dismissed one small element of the case but allowed the much larger part of the claims to proceed.

This hearing did not address any motions filed by Eli Lilly whose drug Mounjaro is also being named in the lawsuits.

December 5, 2023: A separate investigation into Ozempic and similar drugs proves little is known about their side effects

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has begun an investigation to determine if a link between drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and other GLP-1 RAs and an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and self-harm. Although this has nothing to do with these drugs causing gallbladder disease or gastrointestinal disorders, it does show that there is still a lot we don't know about these medications that so many people are taking.

December 5, 2023: Plaintiffs representing those injured by Ozempic and other similar drugs request MDL

As expected, a separate motion was filed for a broader MDL today covering all types of lawsuits beyond gastroparesis, such as cyclical vomiting and gallbladder issues, like gallstones and acute gallbladder disease.

Like the motion filed on December 1, the plaintiffs’ lawyers have requested all the cases be handled together in one court instead of having their lawsuits scattered across the country.

December 1, 2023: Motion to centralize gastroparesis lawsuits filed

Today a motion to centralize all federal gastroparesis lawsuits related to Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and similar GLP-1 RA drugs was filed with the U.S. Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation. This filing did not include other concerns related to the drugs like gallbladder problems. 

Multidistrict Litigation allows all the injured parties to join forces for the early parts of the case, like gathering evidence and sorting out how the law applies to the case before everyone's individual cases get separate final decisions.

October 6, 2023: Study released by JAMA expected to cause an avalanche of Ozempic lawsuits

A study released on October 5, 202, in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), points toward popular weight loss medications, like Ozempic or Wegovy, causing a heightened risk of serious gastrointestinal issues

July 25, 2023: Doctors reveal that Ozempic and similar drugs being used for weight loss can cause serious stomach issues

Diabetic medications Ozempic and Wegovy, both of which are being prescribed off-label for weight loss, help those looking to lose some pounds by mimicking a natural hormone that slows down the movement of food through the stomach. This helps people taking the drug to feel fuller longer.

However, if the stomach slows down too much it can cause serious problems and that is exactly what’s happening. 

Doctors told CNN that more cases of stomach problems, including stomach paralysis, caused by Ozempic and similar drugs are starting to present themself more and more as the popularity of the drugs has soared.

How Much Is My Ozempic Lawsuit Worth?

There is no simple answer to this common question. Every person who suffers injury from a drug or someone's negligent behavior wants to know how much their lawsuit is worth.

The answer depends on the damages suffered which vary from case to case. Ultimately, how we can effectively quantify and qualify the losses you have suffered from an injury such as gallstones is a primary factor in how your case is valued.

The goal of a personal injury lawsuit is to make you whole again after you suffer losses related to the injuries that were caused by someone else.

Gallbladder issues caused by Ozempic can vary but the bottom line is that they can lead to expensive medical bills, cause missed work and income loss, and possibly lost employment, and other financial losses depending on the circumstances of the case.

Ozempic-related injuries can also inflict intense pain and suffering that while intangible can be considered legal damages worth compensation.

Settlement estimates run from $400,000 to $700,000 depending on the severity of each situation. The higher range of settlement amounts would be related to Ozempic users who suffered removal of their gallbladder or even death.

Types of Legal Damages Available in Ozempic Lawsuits

Similar to most personal injury cases, if you've been harmed by taking Ozempic you have the right to request compensation for certain financial expenses and losses. In general, dangerous drug users can request economic and non-economic damages to help them cover expenses and regain a more normal life.

Economic damages include the expenses and losses you can demonstrate with a bill or record. Common economic damages include:

  • medical expenses (both current and future),
  • lost income usually from missed time at work or expected employment changes, and
  • other out-of-pocket costs related to your injuries.

Non-economic damages are more difficult to value because the evidence is subjective. These damages may include:

  • pain and suffering,
  • loss of relationships,
  • loss of your life enjoyment, and
  • death if your loved one died as a result of using Ozempic.

A personal injury attorney is an essential component in effectively determining what damages you have suffered that can be a part of your claim. With their assistance in calculating your damages, you can effectively maximize the value of your Ozempic lawsuit and potentially uncover additional damages.

Medical Studies Connecting Ozempic To Gallbladder Health Issues

The Ozempic product label shows that gallstones were reported in 1.5% and 0.4% of 0.5mg and 1mg of Ozempic-treated patients in clinical trials. 0% of the patients given a placebo reported gallstones. 90% of the patients who reported gallstones in these Ozempic clinical trials reported their cholelithiases as a serious event that required cholecystectomy where the gallbladder is removed. 

Several scientific studies published in a variety of peer-reviewed medical journals have shown connections between the use of drugs like Ozempic and an increased risk of gallbladder-related diseases. 

JAMA Internal Medicine - Association of Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonist Use With Risk of Gallbladder and Biliary Diseases

Ozempic Lawsuits

This study published in JAMA Internal Medicine provides a meta-analysis of the association between GLP-1-1 RA use with the risk of gallbladder or biliary diseases.

This was accomplished by using randomized clinical trials to compare the use of GLP-1 RA drugs with a placebo or with non-GLP-1 RA drugs in adults.

Through the meta-analysis of the clinical trials, the study found an increased risk of cholelithiasis (RR 1.27; 95% CI 1.10-1.47) and cholecystitis (RR 1.36; 95% CI 1.14-1.62) with GLP-1 RAs compared to placebo or active comparator.

Through this systematic review, the researchers concluded that the use of GLP-1 RAs was associated with an increased risk of gallbladder or biliary diseases with higher associated risk when used at higher doses, for longer durations, and for weight loss.

JAMA Internal Medicine - Association of Bile Duct and Gallbladder Diseases With the Use of Incretin-Based Drugs in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

JAMA Internal Medicine published another study that sought to determine whether the use of DPP-4 inhibitors and GLP-1 analogues is associated with an increased risk of incident bile duct and gallbladder disease in patients with type 2 diabetes.

The comparative study found that 853 of 71,369 patients were hospitalized for bile duct and gallbladder disease, and researchers reported that the use of GLP-1 analogues was linked to an increased risk of these illnesses. GLP-1 analogues were also associated with an increased risk of cholecystectomy. 

With this information, researchers concluded that there is an increased risk of bile duct and gallbladder disease from the use of GLP-1 analogues, researchers cautioned physicians to be aware of such risks when prescribing these drugs. 

Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice - Cholelithiasis in patients treated with Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor

In a meta-analysis published in Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice, researchers updated existing associations between GLP1-RA and cholelithiasis after the publication of new trials.

With their new analysis, the researchers identified an increased risk of cholelithiasis with GLP-1 RAs (MH-OR 1.28; 95% CI 1.11-1.48) including in sensitivity analysis with continuity correction (MH-OR 1.26; 95% CI 1.10-1.45) compared to placebo or active comparator.

Diabetes, Obesity & Metabolism - Safety Issues With Glucagon-Like peptide-1 Receptor Agonists

In a meta-analysis published in Diabetes, Obesity & Metabolism, researchers assessed the effect of GLP1-RA on pancreatitis, pancreatic cancers, and cholelithiasis while also including the data from recently published cardiovascular outcome trials (CVOT) with GLP1-RA. 

The meta-analysis concluded that data confirmed the safety of GLP-1 receptor agonists for pancreatitis but also associated these drugs with an increased risk of cholelithiasis.

Contact Dolman Law Group for Help With Your Ozempic Lawsuit

Ozempic can potentially cause severe damages in the form of medical bills, lost wages, lost earning potential, and mental anguish that can be compensated in an Ozempic lawsuit.

The personal injury lawyers at Dolman Law Group are nationally recognized and have a sterling reputation proven by client testimonials that speak to our ability to help you in this difficult time. 

To qualify for an Ozempic gallbladder lawsuit, you or your loved one must have:

  • Used Ozempic before April 2022
  • Been diagnosed with gallbladder disease, and
  • Received medical treatment for the gallbladder condition

Contact Dolman Law to schedule a free consultation with our Ozempic attorneys today to learn how we can help you recover damages after suffering from cholelithiasis or cholecystitis related to Ozempic use. Call Dolman Law Group today at (866) 365-9663.

 

Matthew Dolman

Personal Injury Lawyer

This article was written and reviewed by Matthew Dolman. Matt has been a practicing civil trial, personal injury, products liability, and mass tort lawyer since 2004. He has successfully fought for more than 11,000 injured clients and acted as lead counsel in more than 1,000 lawsuits. Always on the cutting edge of personal injury law, Matt is actively engaged in complex legal matters, including Suboxone, AFFF, and Ozempic lawsuits.  Matt is a lifetime member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum for resolving individual cases in excess of $1 million and $2 million, respectively. He has also been selected by his colleagues as a Florida Superlawyer and as a member of Florida’s Legal Elite on multiple occasions. Further, Matt has been quoted in the media numerous times and is a sought-after speaker on a variety of legal issues and topics.

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