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Ozempic Gastroparesis Lawsuit: A Comprehensive Overview and Potential Implications
Estimated reading time: 8 minutes
- Over 2,190 lawsuits allege Ozempic causes gastroparesis.
- Novo Nordisk faces potential liability exceeding $2 billion.
- Gastric emptying studies are crucial for confirming gastroparesis diagnoses.
- Patients experiencing severe gastrointestinal issues after taking Ozempic should seek legal counsel.
- Other serious side effects, including NAION and gallbladder disease, are also under investigation.
Table of Contents
What is Gastroparesis and How Does it Relate to Ozempic?
Gastroparesis is a disorder characterized by delayed gastric emptying. Food moves slowly or not at all from the stomach to the small intestine, leading to a range of distressing symptoms. These can include persistent nausea and vomiting (often lasting for weeks), abdominal pain and bloating, severe dehydration, acid reflux, malnutrition, and significant weight loss. The severity of these symptoms can dramatically impact a patient’s quality of life, often requiring hospitalization and emergency room visits.
Plaintiffs in the Ozempic gastroparesis lawsuit allege that the drug caused their gastroparesis, arguing that Novo Nordisk failed to adequately warn patients and healthcare providers of this severe risk. They claim the company downplayed the seriousness of gastrointestinal side effects, fearing that acknowledging them would negatively impact sales. This alleged failure to warn forms the crux of the legal argument.
The Ozempic Gastroparesis Lawsuit: Key Developments and Current Status
The first lawsuit alleging Ozempic-induced gastroparesis was filed in August 2023. The rapid increase in similar cases led to the consolidation of these lawsuits into MDL No. 3094 in February 2024, streamlining the pretrial process. As of August 1st, 2025, over 2,190 cases are included in the MDL, highlighting the scale of the problem.
Eligibility for the Lawsuit: While specific criteria may apply, individuals who took Ozempic (or similar GLP-1 RAs like Wegovy, Rybelsus, and Mounjaro) and subsequently developed severe gastroparesis, characterized by at least four weeks of persistent vomiting, may be eligible to file a claim. However, pre-existing conditions such as gastric bypass surgery, gastric banding, gastric sleeve surgery, or cancer treatment might exclude some individuals. A recent August 2025 ruling mandates confirmation of gastroparesis through a gastric emptying study.
Novo Nordisk’s Response: Novo Nordisk has consistently maintained that Ozempic is safe when used as directed, denying any wrongdoing. However, the sheer number of lawsuits and the severity of the alleged injuries raise serious questions about the company’s claims.
Beyond Gastroparesis
While gastroparesis is the central focus of the MDL, other serious side effects are also being investigated. These include:
- NAION (Non-arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy): A condition impacting blood flow to the optic nerve, potentially leading to vision loss. A 2024 study linked semaglutide to an increased risk of NAION, prompting plaintiffs to pursue a separate “vision track” within the MDL.
- Gallbladder Disease: Including inflammation and gallstones.
- Pancreatitis and Kidney Injury: Also reported in some court filings.
Potential Financial Implications for Novo Nordisk
Legal analysts estimate that the potential liability for Novo Nordisk could exceed $2 billion. The outcome of the MDL will significantly impact the company’s financial position and its reputation within the pharmaceutical industry.
The Role of Gastric Emptying Studies
The recent court ruling emphasizing the need for gastric emptying studies to confirm gastroparesis diagnoses highlights the importance of objective medical evidence in these cases. These studies measure how quickly food empties from the stomach, providing crucial data to support claims of delayed gastric emptying.
What Does This Mean for Patients?
Patients who have experienced severe gastrointestinal issues after taking Ozempic should carefully review their options. This includes consulting with a qualified legal professional specializing in pharmaceutical litigation to explore their rights and potential legal recourse. Detailed medical records, including dates of Ozempic use, onset of symptoms, and diagnostic tests, are crucial in building a strong case.
Navigating the Legal Landscape
The complexity of pharmaceutical litigation makes seeking expert guidance crucial. Understanding the intricacies of MDL proceedings, deadlines, and evidence requirements is paramount for any individual considering joining the Ozempic gastroparesis lawsuit.