What to Know About Gastroparesis
September 26, 2023 in Mass Torts, Personal Injury, Product Liability
When you or a loved one experiences the effects of a medical condition like gastroparesis following the use of a medication, it’s natural to want to seek answers and hold the company accountable. In many cases, this illness may be linked to certain medical devices or medications. If you or someone you know suffers from gastroparesis, you must understand the condition, its potential causes, and your rights.
Below, the experienced product liability lawyers at Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas and Cannavo P.C. explain what you need to know about gastroparesis and how it may be related to product liability cases.
What is Gastroparesis?
Gastroparesis is a medical condition that affects the normal movement of muscles in the stomach, preventing it from emptying properly. There are many distressing symptoms associated with gastroparesis, including:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Bloating and abdominal discomfort
- Early satiety (feeling full quickly)
- Heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux
- Unexplained weight loss
- Malnutrition due to poor absorption of nutrients
The severity of symptoms of gastroparesis can vary from person to person, but one thing is sure—it can significantly impact your quality of life long term. If you or a loved one is experiencing these symptoms, it’s essential to consult with a medical professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
The Link Between Gastroparesis and Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Wegovy
In some cases, gastroparesis may be caused or exacerbated by semaglutide drugs, such as Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Wegovy, which have gained popularity for their effectiveness in managing blood sugar levels and aiding in weight loss. These injectable prescription medications work by mimicking the effects of a naturally occurring hormone in the body called GLP-1, which helps regulate blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin release, reducing the production of glucose in the liver, and promoting a feeling of fullness, which can aid in weight management.
However, like many medications, Ozempic is not without its potential risks and side effects. Adverse effects of taking the medicines continue to be reported, including gastroparesis.
Understanding the potential link between your condition and these medications is critical to receiving the compensation you deserve for your pain and suffering. If you’ve been affected, you may have a legal case, and it is crucial to contact an experienced product liability lawyer to examine your options.
Seeking Legal Recourse for Gastroparesis
The manufacturers of these drugs have not made it clear that users may experience potentially severe unintended and undisclosed side effects. Not only has gastroparesis been reported to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, but users of these medications also complain of cyclical vomiting, stomach paralysis, gastroparesis, pancreatic cancer, and intestinal blockages. Additionally, published studies show that patients who use semaglutide drugs, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, may be at an increased risk of intestinal obstructions.
Gastroparesis is a challenging condition that can significantly impact your life, but knowing the potential links between this condition and defective medical products or medications is essential. Product liability laws exist to protect consumers from harm caused by faulty products.
If you suspect that you or a loved one has developed gastroparesis after using these medications, don’t hesitate to seek legal advice. Pursuing a legal claim against a drug manufacturer benefits you and may also help prevent similar issues for others in the future.
Contact the NYC Product Liability Lawyers at SPBMCC Today
As a full-service personal injury firm, Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo P.C. specializes in all areas of personal injury. Our dedicated litigation support teams diligently and vigorously represent clients, including matters related to 9/11-related illness, personal injury, car accidents, construction accidents, medical malpractice, premises liability, product liability, and firefighter law across New York City, Long Island, Nassau, and Suffolk counties, as well as New Jersey. Contact us today to learn more about our firm or schedule a consultation with an attorney.