(Source-hindustantimes.com)
A recent lawsuit has raised concerns about the potential hidden side effects of the popular semaglutide drugs Wegovy and Ozempic. A woman who used these medications for weight loss and diabetes management claims that the drugmaker, Novo Nordisk, failed to adequately warn her and other patients of the serious and life-threatening side effects she experienced.
Patient Alleges Severe Side Effects after Using Semaglutide Drugs
Juanita Gantt, the woman at the center of the lawsuit, recently shared her harrowing experience with CBS News. Last October, Gantt was found unconscious on the floor and rushed to the hospital, where doctors discovered that parts of her large intestine had died and required removal. As a result, she now has an ileostomy bag in place because her colon was removed.
The medical emergency prompted Gantt to file a lawsuit against Novo Nordisk, the pharmaceutical company behind Wegovy and Ozempic. While both drugs operate similarly, Wegovy is approved for weight loss, and Ozempic is used primarily for diabetes treatment. Gantt alleges that Novo Nordisk did not adequately warn patients about the potential for severe side effects, including stomach paralysis and bowel obstruction.
Novo Nordisk Responds to the Allegations
In response to the lawsuit, a Novo Nordisk spokesperson expressed sympathy for Gantt’s health challenges, emphasizing that patient safety is the company’s top priority. The spokesperson noted that Novo Nordisk works closely with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to monitor the safety of their medications continuously.
According to the spokesperson, semaglutide-based medications like Wegovy and Ozempic have been on the market for years, primarily to treat diabetes. The company acknowledges the existence of known risks associated with these drugs, which are outlined in the full prescribing information documents. However, Novo Nordisk believes the lawsuit’s allegations are “without merit” and intends to “vigorously defend against these claims.”
What Are the Known Side Effects of Wegovy and Ozempic?
Wegovy and Ozempic have gained popularity in recent months for their effectiveness in weight loss and diabetes management. However, these medications are also associated with a range of side effects, some of which are well-known and widely reported.
Common side effects include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain, vomiting, constipation, bloating, belching, and heartburn. Other frequently reported side effects include headaches, fatigue, dizziness, low blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes, stomach flu, runny nose, and sore throat.
In addition to these more common side effects, Wegovy and Ozempic have been linked to serious health risks, including:
- Thyroid tumors, including cancer
- Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
- Gallbladder problems and gallstones, which may require surgery
- Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
- Kidney problems and kidney failure
- Increased heart rate while at rest
- Changes in vision for people with type 2 diabetes
- Depression or thoughts of suicide
- Serious allergic reactions
Stomach Paralysis and Bowel Obstruction: Omitted from Drug Warnings?
Despite the comprehensive list of side effects included in the prescribing guidelines for Wegovy and Ozempic, stomach paralysis and bowel obstruction—the issues cited in Gantt’s lawsuit—are not specifically mentioned.
A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association last year examined 16 million individuals prescribed GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Ozempic between 2006 and 2020. The study found that users of GLP-1 drugs had a four times higher risk of bowel obstruction or stomach paralysis compared to those using another weight loss drug, bupropion-naltrexone.
Although these serious side effects are considered rare, affecting only about 1% of patients, the study’s lead researchers emphasize the importance of awareness. Patients should discuss any concerns with their healthcare providers to ensure they fully understand the potential risks and benefits of these medications.
As the lawsuit against Novo Nordisk unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and thorough communication regarding the potential risks associated with medications. While Wegovy and Ozempic offer significant benefits for weight loss and diabetes management, patients must be informed of all possible side effects to make the best decisions for their health.
