Legal Action Over Intestinal Paralysis and Severe GI Injuries
Ozempic (semaglutide), a GLP-1 receptor agonist originally approved for type 2 diabetes, has become one of the most widely prescribed drugs for weight loss in the United States. But as its popularity grows, so do reports of serious gastrointestinal injuries—including bowel obstruction and ileus. Patients across the country are now filing lawsuits against Novo Nordisk, alleging that the company failed to warn about the risk of intestinal paralysis and life-threatening digestive complications.
This article explores the medical basis for these claims, the legal status of the ozempic lawsuits, and what affected individuals need to know.
What Is Ileus?
Ileus is a condition in which the intestines become paralyzed and unable to move waste through the digestive tract. Unlike mechanical obstructions caused by tumors or adhesions, ileus is a functional blockage—meaning the muscles of the bowel stop contracting normally. This leads to:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Bloating and distension
- Nausea and vomiting
- Inability to pass stool or gas
- Risk of perforation or sepsis in extreme cases
Ileus often requires hospitalization, nasogastric decompression, and in some cases, surgical intervention.
How Is Ozempic Linked to Ileus?
Ozempic works by slowing gastric emptying and suppressing appetite. While this mechanism is intentional, it can become pathological in some patients. According to the FDA and recent clinical reports, semaglutide may cause:
- Gastroparesis (stomach paralysis)
- Intestinal obstruction
- Paralytic ileus
- Adynamic ileus
- Functional bowel paralysis
The FDA has acknowledged ileus as a potential adverse event associated with GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus. Patients have reported being hospitalized for days or weeks due to severe gastrointestinal dysfunction.
Legal Basis for the Ozempic Ileus Lawsuit
Lawsuits filed against Novo Nordisk allege:
- Failure to warn: Plaintiffs claim the company did not adequately disclose the risk of ileus and bowel obstruction on product labeling or in marketing materials
- Negligent design and testing: Some lawsuits argue that semaglutide was not properly evaluated for long-term GI safety
- Off-label promotion: Ozempic is often prescribed for weight loss, even though it was originally approved for diabetes—raising concerns about informed consent
These cases are part of a broader mass tort litigation known as MDL No. 3094 – In Re: GLP-1 Receptor Agonists Products Liability Litigation, currently pending in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania3.
Who Is Eligible to File?
You may be eligible to file an Ozempic ileus lawsuit if:
- You were prescribed Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus, or Mounjaro
- You were diagnosed with ileus, bowel obstruction, or intestinal paralysis
- You required hospitalization, surgery, or emergency care
- You were not warned about these risks prior to treatment
Families may also file wrongful death claims if a loved one died due to complications from ileus or bowel obstruction linked to GLP-1 drugs.
Status of the Litigation
As of August 2025:
- Over 1,800 cases have been consolidated into MDL 3094
- The litigation is in early stages, with case management deadlines being set
- No settlements have been reached yet
- Plaintiffs continue to file new claims daily3
Legal experts expect bellwether trials to begin in late 2025 or early 2026, which could set the tone for future settlement negotiations.
Why Contact The Law Office of Melinda J. Helbock
At The Law Office of Melinda J. Helbock, A.P.C., we are actively investigating claims involving Ozempic-related gastrointestinal injuries, including ileus and bowel obstruction. Our firm offers:
- Decades of experience in pharmaceutical litigation
- Strategic coordination with medical experts and national counsel
- Compassionate, client-centered representation
- A proven track record of securing substantial settlements
If you or a loved one suffered serious harm after taking Ozempic or a related GLP-1 drug, contact our San Diego office today for a free consultation. We’ll help you understand your rights and pursue justice.
References
- Injury Lawsuit Connect. (2025). Ozempic Ileus Lawsuit Cases. Retrieved from https://injurylawsuitconnect.com/ileus-lawsuit/
- Lawsuit Tracker. (2025). Ozempic Lawsuit – August 2025 Update. Retrieved from https://lawsuittracker.org/dangerous-drugs/ozempic-lawsuit/
- Lawsuit Legal News. (2025). Ozempic Lawsuit: Lawsuits Filed Against Ozempic (August 2025). Retrieved from https://lawsuitlegalnews.com/ozempic-lawsuit/