CITY, STATE – National mass tort lawyers are currently investigating potential lawsuits related to the use of Wegovy, a prescription drug used for weight loss and weight management. Recent studies have revealed that the prolonged use of Wegovy may significantly increase the risk of developing gallbladder problems, such as gallbladder disease and gallstones.
Until recently, the drug label for Wegovy did not contain any warning about the potential risk of gallbladder issues. As a result, product liability lawsuits have been filed, alleging that the drug maker negligently failed to provide adequate warnings. Individuals who have experienced gallbladder issues after using Wegovy may be eligible to file a lawsuit and seek financial compensation.
Wegovy, also known as semaglutide, is a prescription drug primarily used for weight loss in individuals with severe obesity. It is administered through injection under the skin using a single dose pen. The drug belongs to a group of medications called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists.
Manufactured by Novo Nordisk, a European pharmaceutical company that specializes in diabetes drugs, Wegovy is a higher-dose injection version of the diabetes medication Ozempic. In 2024, the FDA endorsed Wegovy for its potential in preventing cardiovascular diseases associated with obesity, such as strokes and heart attacks. The FDA recommends using Wegovy in conjunction with a low-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
Over the past six years, various scientific research studies have linked Wegovy to gallbladder problems, including gallstones and gallbladder disease. A significant study published in the medical journal JAMA Internal Medicine highlighted the higher rates of gallstones and gallbladder disease among users of Ozempic and Wegovy. The conclusions of this research were based on data collected by the FDA.
The exact mechanism through which Wegovy causes gallbladder problems remains unclear. One theory suggests that the drug stimulates the gallbladder to produce excessive amounts of bile, leading to the formation of gallstones.
Individuals who used Wegovy prior to the addition of the warning label in March 2022 may have grounds to file a product liability lawsuit for negligent failure to warn. Many Wegovy users have already taken legal action against Novo Nordisk for its alleged failure to adequately warn about the risks of gallbladder disease.
All Wegovy gallbladder lawsuits have been consolidated into a class action MDL (multidistrict litigation), which involves a consolidated discovery process followed by bellwether test trials. The outcomes of these trials will influence the possibility of a global settlement with Novo Nordisk.
Predicting the potential settlement value of Wegovy gallbladder lawsuits is challenging due to the various factors involved, such as the admissibility of scientific evidence. However, based on favorable circumstances for the plaintiffs, mass tort lawyers estimate that these cases could have a settlement value ranging from $250,000 to $525,000. This estimation takes into account the relatively short time Wegovy was on the market before the warning label amendment and the weaker nature of these cases due to the shorter exposure time.
If you believe you have a Wegovy gallbladder lawsuit, it is advisable to consult with a Wegovy lawsuit lawyer to assess your legal options. Contact our law firm today for a free consultation to understand your rights and pursue potential compensation.