Ozempic, a drug first made for diabetes, has become popular worldwide for weight loss. At first, it was seen as a safe and easy way to lose weight. But now, it is under legal and medical attention, with over $2 billion in lawsuits in the US. Many people claim the drug caused serious side effects like stomach paralysis and vision problems.
Why is Ozempic Getting Sued?
Ozempic is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, created to help people with diabetes. It became famous when celebrities and social media influencers started using it for weight loss. Social media was filled with before-and-after pictures, making people rush to buy it.
But soon lawsuits started coming in. Reports say more than 1,200 lawsuits have been brought together in Pennsylvania courts. Patients say the drug caused issues like vomiting, vision problems, and gastroparesis, which means the stomach cannot empty properly. They argue that the company did not give proper warnings.
The Cost of Lawsuits
A law firm in San Diego, the Law Offices of Melinda J Helbock, shared that the cost of these cases could go beyond $2 billion. The number of cases is also expected to keep growing as more patients speak out.
What Novo Nordisk Says
Novo Nordisk, the company behind Ozempic, says the drug is safe when used as directed. The company also says that it is only approved by the FDA for diabetes, not for weight loss.
The company claims they already warn about stomach-related side effects on the drug’s label. They blame social media for making the drug more popular for weight loss, which was never its main purpose.
Still, experts believe the lawsuits may continue to rise, and $2 billion may be just the start.
Side Effects and Risks
Not every person who uses Ozempic faces bad side effects. Many people lost weight and felt fine. But doctors warn that quick weight loss may come with future health risks. Some users continue to report nausea, vomiting, or changes in their eyesight.
What Doctors Advise
Doctors say people using Ozempic should be careful and watch their health. They suggest:
- Go for regular check-ups for stomach and vision health.
- Tell a doctor if nausea, vomiting, or eye problems continue.
- Think about natural weight-loss methods, like diet and exercise, which may be safer long term.
Ozempic is not a magic solution. It may help people lose weight quickly, but it also has risks. The growing lawsuits are a reminder that weight loss should not come at the cost of serious health problems.
