Ozempic (semaglutide), a GLP-1 receptor agonist manufactured by Novo Nordisk, is now at the center of one of the largest pharmaceutical mass torts in recent history. With over 1,800 lawsuits already consolidated into federal multidistrict litigation (MDL No. 3094), legal analysts estimate that total liability could exceed $2 billion—and the number continues to grow.
Plaintiffs allege that Ozempic caused severe gastrointestinal injuries, blindness & vision loss, gallbladder disease, and other life-altering complications. As more patients come forward, the scope of litigation is expanding rapidly, with new claims filed weekly and additional GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Rybelsus under scrutiny.
What Is Ozempic and Why Is It Being Sued?
Ozempic is part of the GLP-1 receptor agonist drug class, originally approved to treat type 2 diabetes and later prescribed off-label for weight loss. While effective for blood sugar control and appetite suppression, the drug has been linked to serious side effects, including:
- Gastroparesis (stomach paralysis)
- Ileus (intestinal blockage)
- Persistent vomiting and dehydration
- Gallbladder inflammation and gallstones
- Vision loss (NAION – non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy)
- Pancreatitis and kidney injury
Plaintiffs argue that Novo Nordisk failed to adequately warn consumers and healthcare providers about these risks, despite mounting evidence from adverse event reports and clinical studies.
Timeline of Key Legal Developments
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Aug 2023 | First lawsuit filed by Jaclyn Bjorklund alleging gastroparesis and vision loss |
| Feb 2024 | MDL No. 3094 created: In Re: GLP-1 Receptor Agonists Products Liability Litigation |
| May 2025 | Over 1,800 cases pending in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania |
| Aug 2025 | Analysts project total liability could exceed $2 billion as new claims surge |
The MDL is overseen by Judge Karen Spencer Marston, who is managing pretrial motions, discovery, and bellwether trial selection.
What Is an MDL and Why Does It Matter?
A multidistrict litigation (MDL) consolidates similar federal lawsuits to streamline pretrial proceedings. In the Ozempic MDL, this means:
- Reducing duplicative discovery across jurisdictions
- Ensuring consistent rulings on scientific and legal issues
- Facilitating global settlement negotiations if early trials favor plaintiffs
The MDL includes claims against Novo Nordisk for Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus, and against Eli Lilly for Mounjaro.
Medical Evidence Supporting the Lawsuits
Recent studies and adverse event reports have strengthened the plaintiffs’ case:
- A 2023 study published in JAMA Internal Medicine linked GLP-1 drugs to increased risk of gastroparesis
- Ophthalmologists have reported a rise in NAION cases among Ozempic users
- The FDA’s FAERS database shows thousands of complaints involving gastrointestinal and ocular complications
Novo Nordisk continues to deny wrongdoing, stating that Ozempic is safe when used as directed. However, plaintiffs argue that the company failed to disclose the full scope of risks, especially for off-label weight loss use.
Who Is Eligible to File an Ozempic Lawsuit?
You may qualify to file a claim if:
- You were prescribed Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus, or Mounjaro
- You experienced gastroparesis, ileus, gallbladder disease, vision loss, or other serious complications
- You have medical records confirming diagnosis and treatment
- You have not signed a liability waiver or accepted prior compensation
Even if your symptoms resolved, you may still be eligible based on pain, suffering, and medical costs incurred.
What’s Next in the Litigation?
As of August 2025, the Ozempic MDL is in the discovery phase. Key developments expected in the coming months include:
- Bellwether Trial Selection: Representative cases will be chosen for early trial
- Expert Testimony: Medical experts will testify on causation and drug safety
- Settlement Talks: If bellwether trials favor plaintiffs, Novo Nordisk may negotiate global settlements
- MDL Expansion: New claims involving hair loss, kidney injury, and emotional distress are being evaluated
Legal analysts expect the first bellwether trials to begin in early 2026, potentially setting precedent for thousands of future claims.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Ozempic Lawsuit
Why is the Ozempic lawsuit projected to reach $2 billion? The volume of claims, severity of injuries, and potential for punitive damages have led analysts to estimate total liability in excess of $2 billion. This includes compensation for medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and corporate misconduct.
How many lawsuits have been filed so far? As of August 2025, more than 1,800 Ozempic lawsuits have been consolidated into MDL No. 3094 in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. Hundreds more are expected.
What types of injuries are being reported? The most common injuries include gastroparesis, intestinal blockage, gallbladder disease, vision loss (NAION), pancreatitis, and kidney damage.
Can I file a lawsuit if I took Wegovy or Rybelsus instead of Ozempic? Yes. Wegovy and Rybelsus also contain semaglutide and are included in the MDL. Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is also under investigation.
What compensation can I seek? Potential compensation includes medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and punitive damages.
Is there a deadline to file? Each state has its own statute of limitations, typically ranging from 1 to 3 years from the date of injury or discovery. Contact an attorney promptly to preserve your rights.
Why Choose The Law Office of Melinda J. Helbock for Your Ozempic Claim
At The Law Office of Melinda J. Helbock, we are actively investigating claims involving Ozempic and other GLP-1 drugs linked to gastrointestinal injuries, vision loss, and systemic complications. Our firm offers:
- Decades of experience in pharmaceutical litigation and product liability
- Aggressive representation against drug manufacturers like Novo Nordisk
- A proven track record of securing substantial settlements for injured patients
If you or a loved one suffered serious side effects after taking Ozempic, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Contact our San Diego office today for a free consultation, and let us help you hold the manufacturer accountable.
References
- Lawsuit Tracker. (2025). Ozempic Lawsuit – August 2025 Update. Retrieved from https://lawsuittracker.org/dangerous-drugs/ozempic-lawsuit/
- Drugs Coverage. (2025). Ozempic Lawsuit Morgan and Morgan: What You Need to Know. Retrieved from https://drugscoverage.com/ozempic-lawsuit-morgan-and-morgan-what-you-need-to-know/
- The Justice Collaborative. (2025). Ozempic Lawsuit: Understanding Side Effects, Claims & Compensation. Retrieved from https://thejusticecollaborative.com/lawsuits/dangerous-drugs/ozempic
- JAMA Internal Medicine. (2023). GLP-1 Agonists and Risk of Gastroparesis