Ozempic is a medication primarily prescribed for type 2 diabetes management, not weight loss per se. It received FDA approval in 2017 and is being  prescribed off label for weight loss taken by many thousands of people. The issue is that since the FDA approved Ozempic in 2017, the manufacturer,  Novo Nordisk ,has not included gastroparesis warnings in its prescription information. The company warned about other Ozempic side effects but didn't warn the public of the risk of severe gastroparesis.

There is no cure for gastroparesis, and now a growing number of those injured are seeking compensation for loss of quality of life, past and future medical bills and other damages. Brand names involved include:

• Mounjaro
• Rybelsus
• Saxenda
• Wegovy

The drug itself contains the active ingredient semaglutide and belongs to the class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. GLP-1 agonists work by mimicking the action of the naturally occurring hormone glucagon-like peptide-1, which increases insulin secretion, decreases glucagon secretion, and delays gastric emptying. An earlier published medical article tied the drug's use to side effects involving the gall bladder;

https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/article-abstract/2795476

Psychophysiology

The active ingredient, semaglutide, mimics the action of GLP-1, which among other things, delays gastric emptying — the speed at which food passes from the stomach to the small intestine. If the drug significantly delays this process, it may lead to gastroparesis, a condition where the stomach cannot empty itself of food in a normal fashion. This would be an unintended and extreme side effect of the drug's mechanism of action. Gastroparesis is a complex condition often influenced by multiple physiological factors including nerve function, hormone levels, and even psychological stress, which could exacerbate symptoms.

Symptoms and Effects

The symptoms of gastroparesis can range from mild to severe and may include nausea, vomiting, feelings of fullness, and weight loss. Food that remains in the stomach for an extended period can also ferment, leading to the growth of bacteria. In extreme cases, hardened stools can form in the stomach, leading to a dangerous blockage. Patients might also experience malnutrition and weight loss due to an inability to properly absorb nutrients. Symptoms could be intermittent or constant, and they may be aggravated by high-fiber or high-fat foods that are harder for the stomach to process.

Possible Treatments

Gastroparesis treatment often focuses on managing symptoms. Dietary changes are commonly advised, such as eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding high-fat or fibrous foods. Medications may also be used to manage symptoms; these can include drugs that stimulate stomach muscles, antiemetics for nausea, and antibiotics to treat bacterial overgrowth. In extreme cases, surgical intervention might be necessary, which could include a feeding tube or even a gastric pacemaker, a device implanted into the abdomen that helps control stomach contractions.

If Ozempic or any other medication is suspected to be the cause of gastroparesis, discontinuation under medical supervision is typically the first step in treatment. Since the condition can have a significant impact on quality of life and even lead to severe health risks, it's crucial to consult healthcare providers for an accurate diagnosis. 

For severe cases, it is also advisable to contact a Law Firm that can further advise and file a case where warranted to seek appropriate compensation. If you live in Connecticut, Rhode Island or Massachusetts , a local New England based Firm may be a good place to start. Case inquiries may be accepted in other jurisdictions as well. Contact;