Ozempic Injuries and Medical Malpractice Liability

Written by Atlee Hall

Ozempic (semaglutide) has emerged as a promising weight loss medication. However, the use of Ozempic for weight loss is not without its potential dangers. As with any medication, there are risks associated with its usage, and patients may suffer injuries, including conditions like gastroparesis.

Healthcare providers have a legal responsibility to exercise due diligence and care in evaluating a medication’s suitability for individual patients. Manufacturers have an obligation to conduct comprehensive testing, provide accurate information on potential risks, and adhere to regulations set forth by regulatory bodies like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Liability in Ozempic Usage for Weight Loss

Healthcare providers may be liable for the following:

  1. Informed Consent: Healthcare providers must fully inform patients about the potential risks and benefits of using Ozempic for weight loss. This includes discussing the risks of adverse effects such as gastroparesis and other potential complications.
  2. Failure to Screen: Prior to prescribing Ozempic, healthcare providers should assess the patient’s medical history, pre-existing conditions, and other relevant factors that may increase the risk of adverse reactions.
  3. Negligence and Medical Malpractice: If healthcare providers fail to meet the standard of care when prescribing Ozempic for weight loss and this results in patient harm or injuries, they may be held liable for medical malpractice.

Manufacturer Liability

The manufacturer of Ozempic is responsible for conducting thorough testing to identify potential side effects and complications. Additionally, the manufacturer is required to provide warnings about potential side-effects and adverse reactions.  If known risks, such as gastroparesis, are not adequately disclosed, legal liability may arise.

Gastroparesis and Other Injuries

While Ozempic may offer substantial weight loss benefits, it is essential to recognize that it is not entirely without risks. Some of the potential risks and side effects associated with Ozempic usage include:

  1. Gastroparesis: a known gastrointestinal side effect associated with Ozempic usage. When GLP-1 receptor agonists slow down gastric emptying, it can lead to delayed digestion, causing symptoms like nausea, vomiting, bloating, and abdominal discomfort. Patients suffering from severe or persistent gastroparesis may require medical intervention and may experience a decline in their quality of life.
  2. Hypoglycemia: Ozempic, when used in combination with certain diabetes medications, can increase the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). This is particularly relevant for individuals with diabetes who are also trying to lose weight.
  3. Pancreatitis: Although rare, GLP-1 receptor agonists have been associated with an increased risk of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). Patients should be vigilant for symptoms such as persistent abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, and seek medical attention if these occur.
  4. Gallbladder Issues: Some individuals may experience gallbladder-related problems, such as gallstones, while taking Ozempic.
  5. Thyroid C-cell Tumors: Animal studies have shown an increased risk of thyroid C-cell tumors with GLP-1 receptor agonists, including Ozempic. However, the significance of this risk in humans is still being investigated.

Ozempic Injury Liability

Patients who experience gastroparesis or other injuries while using Ozempic may have grounds for legal action if:

  1. Inadequate Warning: The medication’s label, marketing materials, or information provided by healthcare providers did not adequately warn patients about the risk of gastroparesis or other potential injuries.
  2. Failure to Monitor: Healthcare providers failed to monitor patients closely for adverse reactions or neglected to address warning signs of complications.
  3. Misdiagnosis or Delayed Treatment: Delayed diagnosis or misdiagnosis of gastroparesis or other Ozempic-related injuries led to worsened outcomes.

In cases where patients suffer injuries while using Ozempic, potential liability may arise from medical malpractice, failure to adequately warn about side effects, or neglecting to screen for pre-existing conditions that increase the risk of complications. The medication’s manufacturer may be liable as well.

Did You Suffer Complications from Ozempic? Call Atlee Hall Today

If you or a loved one have experienced injuries or complications related to Ozempic usage, it is crucial to seek legal advice from a qualified Lancaster attorney specializing in medical malpractice and pharmaceutical liability to understand your rights and explore potential legal recourse.

Call Atlee Hall today at (717) 393-9596 or contact us to schedule a free initial consultation.