A recent lawsuit has been filed against Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly, the manufacturers of Ozempic and Mounjaro, two diabetes medications increasingly used off-label for weight loss. This legal action, brought on behalf of a Louisiana woman, highlights significant concerns regarding severe stomach problems linked to these drugs. The following provides an in-depth analysis of the lawsuit, its basis, and implications.
Background of the Case
Plaintiff’s Allegations: The lawsuit centers on Jaclyn Bjorklund, who claims severe injuries after taking Ozempic and Mounjaro. She experienced extreme gastrointestinal distress, including persistent vomiting so severe it led to tooth loss.
Medications in Question: Ozempic and Mounjaro belong to the GLP-1 agonist class, designed to manage Type 2 diabetes and often used for weight loss. These drugs slow food movement through the stomach, potentially causing gastrointestinal issues.
Potential link between these medications and gastroparesis
Legal Claims
Failure to Warn: The lawsuit alleges that the drugmakers did not adequately disclose the risk of severe gastroparesis, also known as stomach paralysis, a condition impairing the movement of food from the stomach to the intestines.
Basis for the Claims: Although “delays in gastric emptying” are mentioned on the drugs’ labels, the specific condition of gastroparesis is not. The plaintiff argues that this omission led to her unawareness of the severe risks associated with these medications.
Medical Perspective
Condition Overview: Gastroparesis, a complication often related to diabetes, slows or stops food movement from the stomach. This can lead to severe symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
Expert Opinions: Medical experts, while acknowledging the potential link between these medications and gastroparesis, also note the possibility of other causes, such as underlying medical conditions.
Legal Implications and Next Steps
Potential for Class Action: With around 400 individuals claiming similar injuries and the expectation of more cases, this lawsuit may evolve into a class action or multidistrict litigation.
FDA’s Role: The FDA has updated warnings on Ozempic for other issues but has not yet commented on the gastroparesis claims. Their ongoing monitoring could influence future legal developments.
Seeking Legal Advice
If you or a loved one has experienced severe gastrointestinal problems after using Ozempic or Mounjaro, it may be prudent to seek legal counsel. A qualified attorney can help assess your case and advise on potential compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and suffering due to these complications.