Last Updated: August 25, 2025
Key Takeaways:
- Rising Lawsuits: As of August 2025, over 2,190 lawsuits are pending in federal court against Novo Nordisk and other GLP-1 drug makers, with cases steadily growing each month.
- Core Allegations: Patients claim Ozempic and related drugs cause severe side effects (gastroparesis, pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, kidney issues, and vision loss) and that manufacturers failed to warn users.
- Health Risks: Both minor side effects (nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain) and severe complications (thyroid tumors, blindness, organ damage, blood clots) are tied to Ozempic use.
- Qualifying for a Lawsuit: To be eligible, patients must show proper use of the drug, a diagnosis of a linked condition, medical evidence of causation, and measurable damages (medical costs, lost income, suffering).
- Settlement Outlook: Payouts could range from $50,000 for moderate cases to over $1 million for vision loss, with total settlements potentially exceeding $2 billion.
- Next Steps: Victims should consult attorneys, gather medical records, document side effects, and file within state deadlines.
Table of Contents:
- Ozempic Lawsuit Timeline
- What is Ozempic?
- What is a Multidistrict Litigation (MDL) Lawsuit?
- What are the Side Effects of Ozempic?
- Do I Qualify for the Ozempic Lawsuit?
- How to File an Ozempic Class Action Lawsuit
- Ozempic Lawsuit Settlement Amounts
- Frequently Asked Questions About the Ozempic Lawsuit
- File an Ozempic Lawsuit for Free
If you’ve suffered serious side effects after taking Ozempic, you’re not alone. Thousands of patients across the country are fighting back against Novo Nordisk, demanding justice for the devastating health consequences they’ve endured. The latest developments in the Ozempic lawsuit show promising progress for victims seeking compensation.
As of August 2025, over 2,190 active lawsuits are pending in federal court against Novo Nordisk and other GLP-1 drug manufacturers. This guide will help you understand the Ozempic lawsuit, if you qualify, and how to sign up.
Ozempic Lawsuit Timeline
The Ozempic class action lawsuit stems from patients prescribed Ozempic claiming the manufacturer, Novo Nordisk, failed to warn users of the side effects that can cause serious gastrointestinal injuries.
Here are some updates to the Ozempic lawsuit in 2025:
August 2025
- August 8, 2025 – As of August 1, there were 2,190 lawsuits pending in the GLP-1 MDL (including Ozempic-related cases), marking nearly 200 new filings in July.
- August 1, 2025 – Court discussions intensified around separating nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), vision loss, cases into their own track, alongside ongoing claims for gastroparesis and other conditions.
July 2025
- July 18, 2025 – Reports emerged linking GLP-1 drugs, including Ozempic, to heightened risks of pancreatitis; the MDL continued to expand with various health claims.
- July 11, 2025 – The MDL was described legally as encompassing personal injury claims involving GLP-1 receptor agonists (like Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus).
- July 4, 2025 – As of July 1, 1,997 lawsuits were pending in the MDL, with projections likely surpassing 2,000 soon.
June 2025
- June 27, 2025 – Litigation developments indicated a growing number of NAION-related claims, suggesting plaintiffs might be grouped by type of medical injury for parallel tracks.
- June 20, 2025 – The MDL continued expanding, with new cases around gastrointestinal and vision-related injuries being filed steadily.
- June 13, 2025 – The European Medicines Agency reported that semaglutide doubled the risk of NAION; this prompted calls to update drug labeling.
- June 6, 2025 – A key focus of litigation was on the standards required for diagnosing gastroparesis, with upcoming hearings expected to influence case outcomes.
May 2025
- May 30, 2025 – A study reinforced the link between semaglutide drugs like Ozempic and hair loss; also, vision-related claims continued rising.
- May 23, 2025 – Lawsuits began involving other GLP-1 drugs beyond Ozempic—like Mounjaro, Wegovy, Rybelsus—with gastroparesis as a frequent common claim.
- May 16, 2025 – Media articles surfaced highlighting GLP-1 risks for both adults and children; legal counsel urged individuals with relevant diagnoses to act swiftly.
- May 9, 2025 – Despite anecdotal talk of “Ozempic teeth” and “Ozempic feet,” credible science pointed to serious GI risks tied to these drugs.
- May 2, 2025 – As of May 1, there were 1,809 lawsuits across the U.S. in the GLP-1 MDL, covering a spectrum of medical complications.
April 2025
- April 25, 2025 – Approximately 24,500 ER visits were attributed to side effects from Ozempic and similar drugs during 2022–2023; gastrointestinal issues accounted for nearly 70%.
- April 18, 2025 – It was noted that reliable online information about Ozempic’s risks was scarce and often overshadowed by celebrity-focused coverage, highlighting the importance of professional medical consultation.
- April 11, 2025 – Potential claimants were informed about the range of qualifying conditions—gastroparesis, ileus, DVT, NAION, gallbladder injuries, and others.
- April 4, 2025 – An additional 164 cases were added in March, raising the MDL total to 1,685 lawsuits.
March 2025
- March 21, 2025 – Defendants sought to mandate objective testing for gastroparesis diagnoses, but plaintiffs argued multiple valid diagnostic methods should remain acceptable.
- March 14, 2025 – Another study linked Ozempic to hair loss, raising the prospect of this becoming a further legal issue.
- March 7, 2025 – The MDL had 1,521 pending lawsuits, and natural appetite-suppressing molecules similar to semaglutide were being explored as safer alternatives.
February 2025
- February 28, 2025 – A large Ophthalmology study linked semaglutide to NAION (though to a lesser extent than previous reports); meanwhile, U.K.-compounded related deaths climbed to 82.
- February 21, 2025 – Claims expanded to include esophageal injuries, DVT, pulmonary aspiration, gallbladder injuries, and more—all tied to GLP-1 drugs.
- February 14, 2025 – Media coverage (Axios, Newsweek, and Prevention) began highlighting side effects and concerns over overuse.
- February 7, 2025 – As of early February, there were 1,443 lawsuits pending, an increase of 110 filings in January alone.
January 2025
- January 31, 2025 – FDA approved Ozempic for chronic kidney disease in diabetes patients, making it the most broadly indicated drug in its class.
- January 24, 2025 – A Nature study linked GLP-1 drugs to gastrointestinal disorders, hypotension, arthritic issues, nephrolithiasis, interstitial nephritis, and pancreatitis.
- January 17, 2025 – A pivotal hearing was scheduled for May 14, focusing on the admissibility of expert reports and testimony in the MDL.
- January 10, 2025 – The MDL had 1,300+ pending lawsuits, covering a wide range of alleged injuries from Ozempic use.
- January 3, 2025 – Medical News Today ran a story on Ozempic’s link to NAION. Plaintiffs were encouraged to consult legal counsel promptly.
What is Ozempic?
Ozempic is the brand name for semaglutide, a prescription medication originally FDA-approved for treating type 2 diabetes. The drug belongs to a class called GLP-1 receptor agonists, which work by mimicking hormones that regulate blood sugar and slow gastric emptying.
While approved for diabetes management, Ozempic gained widespread popularity as a weight loss drug after celebrities and social media influencers promoted its dramatic results. Millions of Americans now use Ozempic and similar drugs like Wegovy, Rybelsus, Trulicity, and Mounjaro primarily for weight management.
However, the drug’s mechanism of action, slowing stomach emptying, can lead to severe gastrointestinal complications that many patients weren’t warned about.
What is a Multidistrict Litigation (MDL) Lawsuit?
An MDL Ozempic lawsuit is a federal process that combines thousands of similar lawsuits against Ozempic and other GLP-1 drugs under one judge. This streamlines the legal process by consolidating evidence and rulings in a single court.
Unlike a class action, each person keeps their own case and potential settlement, based on their specific injuries.
What are the Side Effects of Ozempic?
Taking Ozempic can lead to both short-term and long-term side effects. If you find yourself suffering from any of these issues after taking Ozempic, you should seek medical treatment:
Common and Minor Ozempic Side Effects:
- Nausea: This is the most common side effect and usually decreases over time.
- Vomiting: Some patients experience this, especially when first starting Ozempic.
- Diarrhea: Loose or frequent stools may occur but often improve with continued use.
- Stomach Pain: Abdominal discomfort is a reported side effect.
- Constipation: Some patients may experience difficulty with bowel movements.
Long-Term and Severe Ozempic Side Effects:
- Thyroid Tumors: Ozempic carries a boxed warning for the potential risk of thyroid C-cell tumors.
- Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can occur and may become life-threatening.
- Gallbladder Disease: Gallstones and other gallbladder issues have been reported.
- Kidney Injury: Ozempic may worsen kidney function, especially in patients with pre-existing kidney disease.
- Diabetic Retinopathy Complications: Ozempic may increase the risk of vision problems in some patients.
- Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar can occur, particularly when combined with other diabetes medications.
What Symptoms Should I Look Out For?
If you’ve taken Ozempic and experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention:
- Persistent nausea and vomiting that doesn’t improve
- Severe abdominal pain or bloating
- Inability to keep food down for extended periods
- Sudden vision changes or loss
- Severe fatigue or weakness
- Significant hair loss
- Signs of blood clots (leg pain, swelling, shortness of breath)
Document these symptoms and seek proper medical testing, as objective evidence will be crucial for any legal claim.
Do I Qualify for the Ozempic Lawsuit?
Here are the factors that may qualify you for the Ozempic Lawsuit:
Proper Use of the Medication:
You must have taken Ozempic, or a related drug like Wegovy or Rybelsus, under a doctor’s supervision for diabetes management or weight loss.
Diagnosis of a Serious Side Effect:
You must have experienced a significant health complication linked to the drug, such as:
Proof of Causation:
You must be able to show that Ozempic directly caused your condition, typically supported by medical records and expert opinions.
Timely Filing:
Your claim must be filed within your state’s statute of limitations for personal injury cases. Missing this deadline could prevent you from pursuing compensation.
Evidence of Damages:
Your condition must have led to measurable harm, such as medical costs, lost income, pain and suffering, or a diminished quality of life.
Key Disqualifying Situations
You may be ineligible for the lawsuit under the following circumstances:
- You are undergoing cancer treatment, or have had gastric bypass, gastric sleeve, or gastric band surgery.
- Your adverse reaction involves gallbladder complications, and you began using the drug after March 2022, when warnings for such risks were added to the drug’s prescribing information.
How to File an Ozempic Class Action Lawsuit
Taking legal action requires strategic planning and experienced representation:
Step 1: Speak to an Attorney Over a Free Consultation
Contact a personal injury attorney who specializes in injuries from medications. These lawyers are well-versed in MDL lawsuits and can offer expert legal guidance.
Many law firms offer free initial consultations, so you can discuss your situation without financial risk. During this consultation, the lawyer will review your medical history, any side effects, and the timeline of your Ozempic use to determine your eligibility.
Step 2: Gather Evidence
- Medical Records: Collect all medical documents showing diagnoses or treatments for conditions linked to Ozempic, such as gastroparesis, pancreatitis, kidney injury, or vision problems. Hospital records, physician notes, lab results, and imaging reports can all strengthen your case.
- Proof of Use: Obtain records confirming that you were prescribed and took Ozempic. This may include prescription bottles, pharmacy receipts, or electronic pharmacy records. This establishes that the medication was part of your treatment.
- Documentation of Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of any side effects, symptoms, or emergencies you experience while taking Ozempic. Include dates, severity, and any medical interventions. This personal record helps show the impact the drug had on your daily life and health.
Step 3: File a Lawsuit
Once your attorney has reviewed your evidence, they will prepare and file the formal lawsuit on your behalf. In an MDL, your case may be consolidated with other similar claims for efficiency, but you will still maintain your individual claim.
Your attorney will handle the legal paperwork, deadlines, and court procedures, ensuring your case is properly presented and supported by medical and personal documentation.
Ozempic Lawsuit Settlement Amounts
On average, the settlement amounts for Ozempic could range between $400,000 and $700,000. However, these cases depend on specific details.
- Moderate Cases: $50,000 to $200,000 for documented gastrointestinal issues requiring hospitalization.
- High-Severity Cases: $200,000 to $500,000 for severe gastroparesis requiring ongoing medical treatment.
- Vision Loss Claims: NAION cases could potentially exceed $1 million due to the permanent, life-altering nature of blindness.
With Novo Nordisk potentially facing $2 billion in total payouts, individual settlements could be substantial for qualifying victims. However, realistic resolution timing likely won’t occur before 2026 at the earliest.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Ozempic Lawsuit
How long do I have to file an Ozempic lawsuit?
While there’s no specific deadline yet established, it’s crucial to act quickly. Evidence can disappear over time, and building a strong case requires thorough preparation.
What if I only took Ozempic for a short time?
Even short-term use can cause serious side effects. Some patients developed gastroparesis or vision problems after just weeks or months of treatment.
Can I join the lawsuit if I’m still taking Ozempic?
Yes, you may still qualify even if you’re currently taking the medication. However, you should discuss with your doctor whether continuing treatment is safe given your side effects.
What if my doctor prescribed Ozempic off-label for weight loss?
Many lawsuits involve patients who used Ozempic for weight management rather than diabetes. Off-label use doesn’t prevent you from seeking compensation if you weren’t properly warned about risks.
How much will it cost to hire a lawyer?
Our firm works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. We offer free consultations to evaluate your claim.
What evidence do I need for a gastroparesis claim?
Following the August 19, 2025, ruling, you’ll need objective medical testing such as a gastric emptying study (scintigraphy, breath test, or wireless motility capsule) to prove gastroparesis.
Can family members file lawsuits if someone died from Ozempic complications?
Yes, wrongful death claims may be possible if Ozempic complications contributed to someone’s death. Family members should consult with experienced attorneys about their options.
Contact DM Injury Law for a Free Consultation of Your Ozempic Case
If Ozempic has harmed you or a loved one, don’t wait to seek justice. The pharmaceutical companies behind these dangerous drugs put profits over patient safety, and they must be held accountable.
Our Ozempic medication errors attorneys at DM Injury Law have successfully fought major insurance companies and recovered millions for injured clients. We understand the devastating impact these side effects have had on your life, and we’re ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact DM Injury Law today for your free, no-obligation consultation. Our compassionate legal team is ready to evaluate your case and explain your options.