This page serves as a regularly updated resource for victims, families, and legal professionals seeking the latest developments in GLP-1 drug litigation across federal and state courts. It covers all major lawsuits involving Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, Zepbound, Rybelsus, and related semaglutide and tirzepatide-based medications.

The content below provides a detailed chronological history of significant legal filings, court rulings, scientific research, and industry developments — everything you need to stay informed about one of the most significant pharmaceutical litigation matters in recent history.

2026 Ozempic Lawsuit Updates & GLP-1 Litigation Developments

May 13, 2026 —

The Washington Court of Appeals revived a legal battle against health insurers’ blanket denial of weight loss drug medication coverage. In an important ruling , the court determined that insurance plans that stop coverage of obesity medications could possibly run afoul of the state’s antidiscrimination legal framework.

May 12, 2026 — Now over 3600 lawsuits in the Federal MDLs

The two federal MDLs pertaining to gastrointestinal side effects linked to GLP-1 medications continue to expand at a quick pace. The lawsuits are centralized in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. The MDL lawsuits amount to over 3,600 lawsuits.

May 11, 2026 — Ozempic provides big time weight loss in people over 65, study determines

The European Association for the Study of Obesity unleashed an important new analysis suggesting semaglutid eoperates very well in adults over 65. The drug helps seniors drop major weight while benefiting heart and metabolic health. Seniors using the medication on average lost more than 15% of their body weight. This far exceeds weight loss for individuals utilizing placebo treatment. Numerous patients graduated out of obesity labels completely and obtained healthier weight.

May 5, 2026 — “Ozempic pill” launches in the U.S.

A new oral version of the popular GLP-1 medication Ozempic is now available in the United States. Representatives from Novo Nordisk announced that the tablet became available on May 4 for adults ages 18 and older diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. The new daily Ozempic pill replaces Novo Nordisk’s earlier oral GLP-1 medication, Rybelsus. Rybelsus originally received FDA approval in 2019 in 3 mg, 7 mg, and 14 mg doses. The reformulated Ozempic pill is now being marketed in 1.5 mg, 4 mg, and 9 mg doses.

May 3, 2026 — Judge dismisses part of Eli Lilly lawsuit against Empower Pharmacy

A federal judge dismissed part of Eli Lilly and Company’s lawsuit against Empower Pharmacy in Houston, Texas. Eli Lilly alleged that Empower violated federal trademark and state unfair competition laws by distributing allegedly “untested and unapproved” compounded versions of Lilly’s tirzepatide-based GLP-1 medications, including Mounjaro and Zepbound.

April 27, 2026 — Study compares muscle loss between GLP-1 medications

Patients taking tirzepatide-based GLP-1 medications such as Mounjaro and Zepbound reportedly experienced approximately 1.1% greater lean muscle mass loss during the first three months of treatment compared to patients using semaglutide medications. After one year, muscle loss among tirzepatide users reportedly increased to about 2%.

April 15, 2026 — Texas lawsuit alleges death linked to compounded Ozempic product

The family of a Texas woman filed a lawsuit alleging that she died after receiving a compounded and allegedly contaminated version of Ozempic supplied by Empower Clinic Services LLC. The complaint was filed by Lauren Stash, Don Rhodes, and the estate of Shawna Stash. According to the lawsuit, Shawna Stash received a prescription for compounded injectable semaglutide combined with cyanocobalamin that was produced by Empower Pharmacy. The suit alleges the medication contained contaminants and chemicals that contributed to her death.

April 3, 2026 — FDA approves Eli Lilly’s GLP-1 weight-loss pill, Foundayo

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved a second GLP-1 weight-loss pill called Foundayo. Manufactured by Eli Lilly, the medication contains orforglipron and enters the market shortly after FDA approval of an oral version of Wegovy from Novo Nordisk. According to Eli Lilly, Foundayo represents an advancement because it can be taken at any time of day without food or water restrictions.

April 2, 2026 — UK farmers report declining potato demand linked to GLP-1 use

Farmers in the United Kingdom say they are being forced to discard thousands of tons of stored potatoes as consumer demand declines. Some farmers, including Andy Goodacre, attribute the decrease in supermarket demand to the growing popularity and use of GLP-1 medications, which are associated with reduced appetite and food consumption.

April 1, 2026 — Novo Nordisk cuts Ozempic and Wegovy prices in India

Novo Nordisk announced additional price reductions for Ozempic and Wegovy in India, cutting prices by as much as 35% and 47%, respectively. The company said the reductions are intended to compete with lower-cost generic alternatives produced by Indian pharmaceutical manufacturers following the expiration of Novo Nordisk’s semaglutide patent on March 20, 2026.

March 28, 2026 — Novo Nordisk to reduce Ozempic and Wegovy list prices in 2027

Novo Nordisk announced plans to lower the list prices of Wegovy and Ozempic beginning January 1, 2027. Wegovy’s monthly list price will drop to approximately $675, representing nearly a 50% reduction, while Ozempic prices will decline by about 35%. The lower prices are expected to primarily benefit insured patients whose out-of-pocket costs are tied to medication list prices, including individuals with high deductibles or coinsurance plans. Existing cash-pay discount programs will remain unchanged.

March 20, 2026 — Wrongful death lawsuit filed over Ozempic use

A law firm filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Novo Nordisk alleging that a 76-year-old woman died after developing stomach paralysis while taking Ozempic. The family of Marsha Ettinghoff claims she had used the medication for approximately six months before becoming seriously ill and passing away.

The wrongful death lawsuit was filed alleging that Ozempic caused a 76-year-old woman to develop gastroparesis, which allegedly progressed into a life-threatening medical emergency. According to the lawsuit, the woman suffered symptoms for several days before dying on the way to the hospital. Her family initially believed she was suffering from food poisoning, but the condition was later identified as severe gastroparesis, a disorder that delays stomach emptying. The lawsuit alleges that the woman aspirated and died before reaching a local hospital.

The wrongful death action against Novo Nordisk claims the manufacturer failed to adequately warn patients and healthcare providers about the severity and potential long-term consequences of gastroparesis associated with GLP-1 medications. The case is based on allegations similar to those raised in semaglutide lawsuits involving Wegovy, Ozempic, and Rybelsus, as well as tirzepatide lawsuits involving Mounjaro.

March 16, 2026 — Federal judge orders “Science Day” in GLP-1 vision loss litigation

The federal judge overseeing the GLP-1 multidistrict litigation (MDL 3163) involving alleged vision loss and blindness ordered attorneys to participate in a “Science Day” presentation scheduled for June 2, 2026. The purpose of the proceeding is to educate the court on the scientific issues surrounding GLP-1 medications and their alleged connection to non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION).

The litigation references a July 2024 Harvard study that reportedly found patients using Ozempic and Wegovy were significantly more likely to develop NAION compared to individuals taking medications that do not contain semaglutide. Judge Marston directed both plaintiffs and defendants to present non-adversarial scientific information to the court. Under Case Management Order No. 6, each side will receive 2.5 hours for presentations, and materials used during Science Day will not be admissible for impeachment or collateral purposes.

March 9, 2026 — Hims & Hers and Novo Nordisk settle legal dispute

Hims & Hers Health and Novo Nordisk reached a settlement resolving ongoing litigation between the two companies. Under the agreement, Hims & Hers will stop selling compounded versions of Ozempic and Wegovy and will instead offer Novo Nordisk’s FDA-approved injectable medications through its telehealth platform. Novo Nordisk stated that U.S. patients with valid prescriptions will be able to purchase the medications at self-pay prices comparable to those offered by other telehealth providers.

March 5, 2026 — FDA criticizes Novo Nordisk over adverse event reporting

Novo Nordisk received criticism from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER) regarding its reporting practices for adverse events associated with GLP-1 medications. In a warning letter dated March 5, the FDA cited five incidents involving serious events such as stroke, suicidal ideation, and death by suicide that the agency alleged were not properly reported. The FDA stated that Novo Nordisk’s actions suggested “systemic failures” in the company’s monitoring, evaluation, and reporting of potential medication side effects.

March 1, 2026 — Vision Loss Lawsuit Filed Against Novo Nordisk

A newly filed lawsuit alleges that Novo Nordisk failed to warn patients about the risk of serious vision loss associated with its GLP-1 medication. The plaintiff, Robert J. Stottlemire, filed his case in Pennsylvania federal court, claiming that Ozempic caused him to develop non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) — a severe and often permanent form of vision loss.

Stottlemire had originally been prescribed Ozempic to manage Type 2 diabetes. His lawsuit asserts violations of both state and federal consumer protection laws, arguing that Novo Nordisk knew or should have known about the risk of NAION and failed to adequately communicate that risk to patients and healthcare providers.

February 25, 2026 — Novo Nordisk Sues Over Counterfeit Wegovy & Ozempic

Novo Nordisk filed suit against a compounding pharmacy based in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, alleging that the pharmacy’s owner improperly marketed and distributed unapproved knockoff versions of Wegovy and Ozempic. The complaint further alleges that the physician misrepresented these compounded drugs as FDA-approved products to her patients.

February 24, 2026 — Novo Nordisk Announces Nearly 50% Price Cuts

Novo Nordisk announced it intends to slash the U.S. list prices of both Wegovy and Ozempic by nearly 50%, effective January 1, 2027. Under the new pricing structure, both medications will be available at a list price of $675 per month.

The company attributed the decision to intensified market competition, particularly from Eli Lilly’s Mounjaro and Zepbound products. Wegovy’s price reduction will approach 50%, while Ozempic’s list price will be reduced by approximately 34%. Novo confirmed that these changes will primarily benefit insured patients whose out-of-pocket costs are tied directly to list prices — such as those with high deductibles or coinsurance obligations. Current cash-pay discount programs are expected to remain unchanged.

February 20, 2026 — Ozempic May Help Repair Cartilage in Arthritic Joints

Emerging research published in Cell Metabolism suggests that semaglutide — the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy — may help reduce the complications of osteoarthritis and even increase cartilage thickness between bones. Greater cartilage density translates to improved joint cushioning and reduced bone-on-bone friction, potentially offering significant pain relief for patients with degenerative joint conditions.

February 12, 2026 — Veterans Study Finds Doubled NAION Risk with Semaglutide

A major study conducted by researchers at the Veterans Health Administration analyzed data from March 2018 through March 2025, comparing vision outcomes in 102,361 veterans. The study compared patients with semaglutide prescriptions (Wegovy, Ozempic, Rybelsus) to those prescribed sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) such as Jardiance, Farxiga, and Invokana.

Lead researcher Dr. Kent Heberer concluded that patients who initiated semaglutide treatment faced twice the risk of developing NAION compared to those prescribed SGLT2i drugs. While absolute risk remained low, the findings reinforced growing concerns about GLP-1 drugs and optic nerve damage.

“In this nationwide cohort of US veterans with T2D, semaglutide initiators had a 2-fold NAION risk than SGLT2i initiators, while the absolute risk was low. Clinicians and patients should be counseled on the rare but evident increased risk of NAION after semaglutide initiation.” — Dr. Kent Heberer

February 10, 2026 — Novo Nordisk Sues Hims & Hers for Counterfeit GLP-1 Drugs

Novo Nordisk filed suit against telehealth platform Hims & Hers, accusing the company of deceiving patients by marketing and distributing compounded knockoff versions of Ozempic and Wegovy. The lawsuit asserts that Hims & Hers has infringed Novo’s patents and is putting patient safety at risk by selling unapproved semaglutide products that bypass the FDA’s rigorous review process.

The matter was also referred to the Department of Justice by the Department of Health and Human Services for potential violations of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. Novo’s Senior Vice President John F. Kuckelman stated:

“Throughout Novo Nordisk’s 103-year-long history, patient safety has always been our top priority. Hims & Hers is mass marketing unapproved knock-off versions of Wegovy and Ozempic that evade the FDA’s gold standard review process — that’s dangerous and deceptive to patients, and undermines the scientific innovation and regulatory rigor in place to ensure these treatments are safe and effective.”

Novo Nordisk is seeking a declaratory judgment, a permanent injunction barring Hims & Hers from distributing semaglutide, and monetary damages. In response, Hims & Hers characterized the lawsuit as an attack on Americans who rely on compounded medications for affordable, personalized care.

Additional February 2026 Developments

• Calls to the Washington State Poison Center related to GLP-1 medications doubled year-over-year, reaching 421 calls in 2025. Most calls involved medication errors or accidental overdoses, often resulting in severe nausea and vomiting.
• Novo Nordisk projected a 2026 sales decline of 5% to 13%, sending its stock down 17% in a single session. Over the past year, Novo’s share price has fallen approximately 50%, driven by competitive pressure from Eli Lilly, compounded medication alternatives, price agreements with the Trump administration, and patent expirations in key markets including India.
• Novo Nordisk issued a public statement calling Hims & Hers’ pricing strategy — offering compounded GLP-1s starting at $49 per month — “illegal mass compounding that poses a significant risk to patient safety.”

February 6, 2026 — UK Woman Collapses After Fake Ozempic Injection

Michelle Sword, 47, from the United Kingdom, suffered a diabetic coma after injecting a counterfeit Ozempic product she purchased through Facebook using PayPal. Within minutes of the injection, she lost consciousness. Her blood sugar dropped to a dangerously low 0.2 millimoles per litre — a level that can be fatal. Investigation revealed that the pen was filled with insulin rather than semaglutide, highlighting the life-threatening dangers of purchasing unregulated GLP-1 products from unauthorized sources.

February 5, 2026 — Novo Nordisk Pursues Over 110 Federal Lawsuits

Novo Nordisk has filed more than 110 lawsuits in federal courts across 32 states, targeting companies allegedly producing and distributing illegal compounded semaglutide products. The company contends that these products may contain dangerous levels of impurities — in some cases as high as 33% — and may be mislabeled with incorrect dosage strengths. Multiple courts have issued temporary restraining orders and permanent injunctions against some of these companies.

February 4, 2026 — Eli Lilly’s Oral GLP-1 Drug Approaching FDA Approval

Industry insiders anticipate that Eli Lilly will receive FDA approval for an oral (pill) version of its GLP-1 drugs in the second quarter of 2026. Lilly executives have pushed back against concerns that the pill form will cannibalize sales of its injectable counterparts, instead projecting 2026 revenue of up to $83 billion — well above Wall Street consensus estimates of $78 billion. For context, Lilly posted $65 billion in revenue in 2025, fueled primarily by strong demand for Zepbound and Mounjaro. The company is also expected to benefit from expanded Medicare coverage of its weight-loss medications.

February 3, 2026 — Streamlined Filing Process Established for Vision Loss MDL

The U.S. District Court judge overseeing GLP-1 vision loss litigation has implemented a streamlined process for filing new NAION-related lawsuits. Rather than filing in various federal district courts and awaiting transfer, new claims can now be filed directly into the vision loss multidistrict litigation (MDL). This procedural change is intended to reduce delays and enable more efficient management of the rapidly growing Ozempic eye damage litigation.

February 2, 2026 — Novo Nordisk Stock Slides on Revenue Concerns

Novo Nordisk’s stock fell 14% in a single trading session following reports of declining sales and profit growth in 2026. Ongoing pricing pressures in the U.S. market, combined with exclusivity challenges in Brazil, China, and Canada, have weighed heavily on the Danish drugmaker as it battles intensifying competition.

January 29, 2026 — GLP-1 Drugs Linked to Higher Kidney Disease Risk

A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that GLP-1 receptor agonists such as Ozempic and Mounjaro may carry an 8.2% higher risk of chronic kidney disease and acute kidney injury compared to SGLT2 inhibitors such as Invokana and Jardiance. These findings stand in contrast to Novo Nordisk’s recent FDA-approved indication for Ozempic in kidney disease management, underscoring the complexity of assessing GLP-1 safety profiles.

January 28, 2026 — FDA Approves Ozempic for Kidney Disease; Novo Doubles Advertising Spend

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration granted approval for Ozempic as a treatment to reduce the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD), kidney failure, and cardiovascular-related death in adults with Type 2 diabetes and CKD. This marks a significant label expansion for the drug.

In a separate development, it was reported that Novo Nordisk spent nearly $500 million on U.S. advertising for Wegovy and Ozempic over a nine-month period in 2025 — approximately double what Eli Lilly spent on its competing GLP-1 products during the same period.

January 27, 2026 — Federal Court Denies Novo’s Motion to Dismiss Telehealth Ad Claim

A federal judge in Washington denied Novo Nordisk’s motion to dismiss a lawsuit against a telehealth company called Invigor, which had allegedly made misleading advertising claims suggesting that compounded medications are equivalent to Ozempic. The court determined that Novo Nordisk has a sufficient legal interest in correcting that kind of deceptive messaging.

January 22, 2026 — Novo Nordisk Launches ‘There’s Only One Ozempic’ Campaign

Novo Nordisk debuted a new patient-focused marketing campaign featuring actors Justin Long and John Hodgman — best known for their iconic roles in Apple’s ‘Get a Mac’ ads from the late 2000s. The ‘There’s Only One Ozempic’ campaign is designed to draw a clear distinction between branded Ozempic and generic or compounded alternatives, emphasizing the drug’s clinical benefits including A1C reduction, cardiovascular protection, and kidney disease prevention.

January 23, 2026 — India Moves Forward with Generic Ozempic

Indian pharmaceutical company Dr. Reddy’s was granted approval by India’s drug regulatory authority to manufacture and market a generic version of Ozempic. The company is targeting sales of two million semaglutide injection pens within the first year of launch. Ozempic’s patent for semaglutide in India expired in March 2026, opening the door for multiple Indian generic manufacturers to compete in the expanding GLP-1 market.

January 16, 2026 — FDA Removes Suicide Risk Warnings from GLP-1 Labels

The FDA directed Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk to remove warning labels related to suicidal thoughts and behavior from the packaging of their weight-loss medications. Following more than a year of comprehensive safety research, regulators concluded that there is no meaningful increased risk of suicidal ideation or behavior associated with GLP-1 use. This decision affects Novo Nordisk’s Saxenda and Wegovy, as well as Eli Lilly’s Zepbound. Importantly, this ruling has little practical impact on current Ozempic litigation, as the pending lawsuits do not involve allegations of suicide-related harm.

January 15, 2026 — California Patient Files Ozempic Vision Loss Lawsuit

Jason Lowe, a California resident, filed suit against Novo Nordisk in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, alleging that Ozempic caused him to develop NAION — a serious and irreversible condition that destroys optic nerve tissue and causes permanent vision loss. Lowe was prescribed Ozempic in the summer of 2023 to treat Type 2 diabetes. By early 2024, he began experiencing blurred vision and visual disturbances in his right eye. An ophthalmologist confirmed the NAION diagnosis, and despite discontinuing his Ozempic prescription, he suffered permanent vision loss.

Lowe’s lawsuit argues that Novo Nordisk knew — or should have known — about the risk of NAION well before his prescription was issued. His legal team points to adverse event reports linking GLP-1 drugs to optic ischemic neuropathy dating as far back as 2012, and suggests that the connection between semaglutide and NAION was recognized in certain medical circles as early as 2019.

January 14, 2026 — Canada Opens the Door to Generic Ozempic

In an unusual corporate decision, Novo Nordisk deliberately chose not to pay a $450 annual maintenance fee required to maintain its semaglutide patent in Canada — and did not renew even after receiving a reminder and a one-year grace period. As a result, patent protection for Ozempic in Canada expired on January 4, 2026, across all provinces. Novo confirmed the decision was intentional.

Health Canada is currently reviewing nine submissions from generic manufacturers seeking approval to market lower-cost versions of semaglutide. Companies that have submitted applications include:

• Sandoz Canada
• Apotex
• Teva Canada
• Taro Pharmaceuticals
• Aspen Pharmacare Canada

Canada may become the first country in the world where patients can access a significantly cheaper generic alternative to Ozempic and Wegovy, though regulatory approvals are not expected immediately.

January 13, 2026 — Cornell Study: GLP-1 Users Cut Grocery Bills by 5%

A large-scale study from Cornell University found that households using GLP-1 weight-loss drugs such as Zepbound and Mounjaro reduced their grocery spending by an average of 5.3% within six months of beginning treatment. The appetite-suppressing effects of these medications appear to be translating into measurable changes in food purchasing behavior.

Key findings from the study include:

• Fast-food spending declined at a steeper rate than grocery spending
• Snack foods, candy, and sugary items saw the sharpest declines
• Yogurt, fresh fruit, nutritional bars, and meat snacks saw modest increases in spending
• Wealthy households reduced grocery spending by over 8%
• Households that remained on GLP-1 therapy sustained reduced spending for nearly a year

Spending reductions gradually tapered over time as patients adjusted to the medication.

January 8, 2026 — Weight Regain After Stopping GLP-1 Medications

A comprehensive review published in the BMJ found that patients who discontinue GLP-1 weight-loss medications regain weight nearly four times faster than people who simply stop exercising or abandon a diet-based weight management program. Approximately half of all patients with GLP-1 prescriptions stop taking the medication within one year, most commonly due to high costs and gastrointestinal side effects.

Oxford researcher Sam West and colleagues analyzed data from randomized trials and observational studies covering more than 6,000 patients. Their findings showed:

• Patients typically regained just under one pound per month after stopping treatment
• Most patients regained approximately 10 pounds within one year of discontinuation
• Risk markers for heart disease and diabetes — including elevated cholesterol and high blood pressure — were estimated to return to pre-treatment levels within two years

West noted that the speed of weight regain after stopping medication was particularly striking to researchers, reinforcing the view that GLP-1 medications may need to be used long-term to sustain their benefits.

2025 Lawsuit Updates & Developments

December 2025

December 24, 2025 — Philadelphia Victim Files NAION Lawsuit

An Ozempic lawsuit was filed on behalf of Ramona Washington of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, alleging that Ozempic caused her to develop NAION. The case is docketed as Washington v. Novo Nordisk Inc., et al., No. 2:25-cv-07329.

December 22, 2025 — Nearly 3,000 GLP-1 Lawsuits Pending in Federal MDL

The Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) reported approximately 2,947 lawsuits pending in the national GLP-1 MDL. This figure does not include cases pending in the two New Jersey State Court multicounty litigations (MCLs), nor does it include over 20 NAION-specific lawsuits in various federal courts in the process of being centralized in a separate MDL.

December 21, 2025 — Over 70 Vision Loss Lawsuits Filed

More than 70 NAION lawsuits have been filed against Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly by victims who suffer from permanent vision loss. Approximately 30 are pending in federal court — including the District of New Jersey, the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, and the Northern District of Texas. More than 40 similar cases are being litigated in state courts.

December 17, 2025 — JPML Creates Separate MDL for GLP-1 Vision Loss Claims

The U.S. Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation ruled that GLP-1 vision loss claims will be handled in a separate federal MDL from the existing MDL covering gastrointestinal injuries. The JPML determined that centralization in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania best served the interests of judicial efficiency, noting that the injuries alleged were fundamentally different from those in MDL No. 3094. Importantly, both MDLs will be overseen by Judge Karen S. Marston, and some plaintiffs allege injuries from both categories.

December 16, 2025 — Judge Marston Issues 2026 Scheduling Order

Judge Marston issued Case Management Order No. 29, establishing the following key deadlines for 2026:

• Plaintiff expert reports due: January 2, 2026
• Manufacturer expert reports due: February 12, 2026
• Plaintiff rebuttal expert reports due: February 23, 2026
• Expert depositions to be completed by: April 10, 2026
• Motions to exclude expert testimony due: April 28, 2026
• Summary judgment motions due: April 30, 2026
• Summary judgment briefs due: June 16, 2026
• Objections to summary judgment motions due: July 24, 2026

December 3, 2025 — States Struggle with GLP-1 Coverage Decisions

Many states have declined to provide Medicaid coverage for GLP-1 weight-loss drugs for obese patients who do not also have Type 2 diabetes, despite evidence suggesting these medications could reduce rates of cancer, heart disease, and diabetes across the low-income population. States that do cover these drugs are reporting significant budgetary strain, as nearly 40% of Medicaid enrollees are classified as obese.

November 2025

November 30, 2025 — Pennsylvania Man Blames Ozempic for Blindness

Scott Angarola, 47, of Pennsylvania, filed an Ozempic lawsuit alleging that the drug caused him to develop NAION after several months of use starting in 2022. His lawsuit contends that Novo Nordisk failed to warn patients or healthcare providers about the risk of vision loss, and references internal safety reports and prior adverse event data suggesting that the company had early knowledge of the connection between semaglutide and optic nerve damage.

November 23, 2025 — Harvard & Brigham Study on GLP-1 Gastrointestinal Side Effects

Researchers from Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School published findings in the Annals of Internal Medicine examining GI side effects across several GLP-1 medications. The study analyzed data from more than 200,000 patient records and compared complication rates among semaglutide, tirzepatide, and dulaglutide (Trulicity) users against those prescribed SGLT-2 inhibitors such as Januvia and Farxiga.

Key findings from Dr. Elizabetta Patorno’s research:

• Ozempic (semaglutide) users faced a 21%+ higher risk of GI complications vs. SGLT-2 inhibitors
• Trulicity (dulaglutide) users faced a 35%+ higher risk
• Mounjaro (tirzepatide) users faced the greatest risk — 49%+ higher than SGLT-2 patients
• All three GLP-1 drugs showed comparable rates of gastroparesis, pancreatitis, and bowel obstruction requiring emergency care

November 23, 2025 — Medical Malpractice Lawsuit Filed Over GLP-1 Overprescription

A victim who lost 153 pounds in just six months while using GLP-1 medications — reportedly equivalent to half his body weight — filed a $35.8 million medical malpractice lawsuit against his physician. The lawsuit alleges that the doctor prescribed multiple overlapping GLP-1 medications at doses exceeding manufacturer guidelines, and also prescribed experimental, non-FDA-approved peptides. The plaintiff claims he is now largely bedridden and suffers from quadruple vision episodes, memory loss, severe abdominal and muscular pain, and significant balance and mobility difficulties.

November 18, 2025 — NJ State Court Appoints Judge for GLP-1 Litigation

The New Jersey Supreme Court determined that NAION-related GLP-1 lawsuits in New Jersey state courts will be handled separately from the gastrointestinal injury cases. Judge Gregg A. Padovano of Bergen County Superior Court was appointed to preside over both the vision loss and stomach paralysis multicounty litigations (MCLs). An MCL functions similarly to a federal MDL, consolidating similar cases for coordinated pretrial proceedings to promote consistency and efficiency.

November 17, 2025 — Novo Nordisk Cuts Prices for Cash-Pay Patients

Following an agreement between President Donald J. Trump and major GLP-1 manufacturers, Novo Nordisk reduced the direct-to-consumer cash price for Wegovy and Ozempic from $499 to $349 per month. Additionally, Novo introduced a promotional introductory offer allowing new cash-pay patients to access the two lowest starting doses for just $199 per month for the first two months of treatment.

November 11, 2025 — Alabama AG Sues Wellness Clinic Over Unapproved Weight-Loss Injections

The Alabama Attorney General filed suit against Aurora IV and Wellness, a Cullman-based medical clinic, alleging that the facility administered research-grade medications not approved for human use to patients who believed they were receiving standard GLP-1 prescriptions such as Ozempic. A temporary restraining order (TRO) was issued prohibiting the clinic from continuing operations while the court examined the allegations.

November 5, 2025 — Iowa Pharmacy Settles Counterfeit Ozempic Dispute

An Iowa corporation settled allegations of selling counterfeit Ozempic, paying $132,249 to a Michigan company. The Iowa Board of Pharmacy had previously fined SmartScripts $25,000 and placed the CEO’s license on five-year probation for distributing fake Ozempic. The pharmacy was ordered to operate under ongoing monitoring with mandatory periodic reporting requirements.

October 2025

October 27, 2025 — Conflicting Eye Studies Presented at Ophthalmology Conference

Two studies were presented at the 129th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, producing differing findings regarding GLP-1 drugs and eye health. Researchers from the University of Ottawa Eye Institute, University of Toronto, McMaster University, and UCLA’s Doheny Eye Institute collaborated on the first study.

Study 1 — Increased Eye Risk: Using data from over 117,000 patients in the WHO’s international drug safety database, researchers found that GLP-1 drug users had a 68.6 times greater likelihood of developing NAION and were at least eight times more likely to be diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy compared to patients prescribed alternative diabetes medications. Notably, no significant association was found between tirzepatide (the active ingredient in Mounjaro and Zepbound) and either condition.

Study 2 — Protective Effect Against AMD: Analysts at Cleveland Clinic Cole Eye Institute examined data from over 430,000 patients aged 50 or older. Those prescribed a GLP-1 drug for five or more years showed a 63% lower risk of dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) compared to metformin users, a 58% lower risk compared to insulin users, and a 54% lower risk compared to SGLT2i users. No meaningful protective effect was found against wet AMD.

October 13, 2025 — Ozempic Now Among Largest Drug Lawsuits in History

With approximately 3,000 Ozempic lawsuits filed in U.S. courts, this litigation has become one of the largest pharmaceutical mass tort proceedings in American history. Potential damages have been estimated at over $2 billion.

October 10, 2025 — Study Links Ozempic to Kidney Damage

A non-peer-reviewed study published on Preprints.org identified a disproportionate number of acute kidney injury (AKI) reports associated with semaglutide-based medications using FDA adverse event data. However, the study’s reliance on self-reported adverse events and lack of peer review limit its scientific weight. Notably, the study found no similar kidney injury association with tirzepatide drugs such as Mounjaro and Zepbound.

October 8, 2025 — Florida Resident Files NJ State Court NAION Lawsuit

An Ozempic lawsuit was filed in New Jersey state court on behalf of a Florida resident who was diagnosed with NAION in both eyes. The case is Malacos v. Novo Nordisk Inc., Docket No. MID-L-007163-25. This filing underscores the growing use of New Jersey state courts as a venue for NAION-related Ozempic litigation, given that Novo Nordisk maintains its American headquarters there.

October 7, 2025 — Plaintiffs Seek Separate Vision Loss MDL

Plaintiffs’ attorneys filed a memorandum urging the JPML to create a dedicated MDL specifically for GLP-1 vision loss claims, rather than folding those cases into the existing MDL covering gastrointestinal injuries. Eli Lilly had previously filed a motion requesting that vision loss claims be added to the existing MDL under Judge Marston. Both Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly opposed the creation of a separate forum. Victims’ counsel argued that combining the two fundamentally different injury categories would disadvantage vision loss claimants.

October 3, 2025 — MDL Surpasses 2,800 Lawsuits

As of October 3, 2025, more than 2,809 lawsuits were pending in the GLP-1 MDL. Over 130 new claims were filed in September 2025 alone, reflecting continued rapid growth in the litigation.

October 2, 2025 — North Carolina Man Claims Persistent Gastroparesis After Stopping Ozempic

Michael Hemenway of North Carolina filed an Ozempic lawsuit alleging that he continued to suffer from gastroparesis even after discontinuing the medication. Hemenway was prescribed Ozempic in October 2023 to treat Type 2 diabetes and stopped taking it in January 2024. Despite stopping treatment, he continued to experience nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and a distended stomach. A gastric emptying study in February 2024 confirmed the ongoing gastroparesis diagnosis. The lawsuit is pending in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.

September 2025

September 26, 2025 — Delaware Woman Undergoes Emergency Surgery After Mounjaro

Paula Wachter of Delaware spent two weeks hospitalized after developing bowel obstruction that she attributes to Mounjaro. She endured severe abdominal pain, cyclic vomiting, emergency surgery, and post-operative physical rehabilitation. She alleges the experience left her with permanent injuries.

September 24, 2025 — Wisconsin Victim Files Lawsuit Over Stomach Complications

Rose Orta of Wisconsin filed an Ozempic lawsuit in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, alleging that Novo Nordisk failed to adequately warn patients and physicians about the risk of bowel obstruction, stomach paralysis, and other serious gastrointestinal complications.

September 17, 2025 — MDL Adopts Master Complaint and Short Form Procedure

Attorneys in the federal GLP-1 MDL agreed to a Case Management Order implementing a Master Complaint and a streamlined Short Form Complaint process. This allows new claimants to file more efficiently without restating all substantive allegations. Existing plaintiffs were required to refile using the short form format. Defendants were given 60 days to respond to the Master Complaint.

September 17, 2025 — New NAION Lawsuit Filed in NJ State Court

A Baltimore, Maryland resident filed an Ozempic lawsuit in New Jersey state court, alleging that Ozempic injections caused her NAION diagnosis. The case is Christensen v. Novo Nordisk Inc., Docket No. MID-L-0056489-25, filed September 8, 2025.

September 12, 2025 — Novo Nordisk Announces Layoffs of Over 9,000 Workers

Novo Nordisk announced a workforce reduction of more than 9,000 employees — over 11% of its global headcount — citing mounting competition from Eli Lilly in the weight-loss drug market. The announcement reflected the company’s deteriorating competitive position as Mounjaro and Zepbound continue to outperform Wegovy in clinical results and market share.

September 11, 2025 — Eli Lilly Files Motion to Centralize NAION Lawsuits

Eli Lilly filed a motion with the JPML seeking to consolidate all federal NAION vision loss lawsuits into a single MDL, arguing that existing infrastructure under Judge Marston in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania would efficiently accommodate these claims alongside the ongoing gastrointestinal MDL.

September 9, 2025 — FDA Issues Warning Letter Over Wegovy/Ozempic Marketing

The FDA issued a formal warning letter to Novo Nordisk regarding a direct-to-consumer promotional video tied to Wegovy and Ozempic — specifically a production titled ‘An Oprah Special: Shame, Blame, and the Weight Loss Revolution.’ The FDA took issue with how the promotional content was structured and presented to the public.

September 6, 2025 — Virginia Resident Sues Over Eye Damage from Ozempic and Trulicity

A Virginia woman filed suit in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania alleging that Ozempic and Trulicity caused serious intestinal complications leading to severe blockages and eye damage. The lawsuit names both Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly as defendants.

September 5, 2025 — Class Action Filed Against CVS Over Zepbound Coverage Termination

A class-action lawsuit was filed against CVS Caremark after the company announced it would no longer cover Zepbound for its plan members, directing them instead to Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy. The policy change came shortly after CVS announced a partnership with Novo Nordisk. Patients and physicians pushed back, asserting that GLP-1 medications are not medically interchangeable and that CVS was denying coverage even when patients and doctors appealed the decision.

September 1, 2025 — Eli Lilly Pushes for New MDL for NAION Claims

Eli Lilly filed a motion with the JPML requesting the establishment of a separate MDL to manage the increasing number of NAION lawsuits. Lilly proposed that the new MDL be overseen by the same judge handling the existing gastrointestinal injury MDL.

August 2025

August 25, 2025 — Legally Blind Maryland Man Files Ozempic Lawsuit

Todd Engel, 62, of Maryland filed an Ozempic lawsuit after developing NAION approximately four months after beginning Ozempic treatment for Type 2 diabetes in 2023. Engel is now legally blind and can no longer perform his prior occupation. A second NAION lawsuit was filed in New Jersey state court by a Long Island, New York resident. See Barzyz v. Novo Nordisk Inc., Docket No. MID-L-005991-25.

August 15–17, 2025 — Novo Files 130+ Lawsuits; Iowa Pharmacy Faces Fraud Allegations

Novo Nordisk escalated its legal campaign against counterfeit semaglutide distributors, filing more than 130 lawsuits across 40 states. To date, 44 permanent injunctions have been obtained against entities selling illegal knockoff Wegovy and Ozempic products. Separately, Iowa compounding pharmacy SmartScripts faced a lawsuit and a $25,000 fine for allegedly distributing counterfeit Ozempic. The pharmacy’s license was placed on probation.

August 16, 2025 — Crucial Ruling: Gastroparesis Claims Require Objective Testing

In a pivotal decision, Judge Karen Spencer Marston ruled that any plaintiff alleging gastroparesis caused by a GLP-1 drug must support their claim with objective medical testing — specifically, a properly administered gastric emptying study. Claims supported only by clinical impressions or symptom descriptions, without diagnostic confirmation, may not survive legal scrutiny. This ruling is expected to have a significant impact on the volume of viable gastroparesis claims in the MDL.

August 13–15, 2025 — New Lawsuits Filed; Status Conferences Scheduled

Judge Marston issued a scheduling order establishing status conference dates through April 2026. Multiple new Ozempic and Mounjaro lawsuits were filed during August, including cases alleging stomach paralysis and vision loss.

August 7, 2025 — Novo Nordisk Lowers 2025 Guidance

Novo Nordisk revised its 2025 financial outlook downward, citing slower-than-expected sales driven by growing use of compounded GLP-1 alternatives, increasing competition, and a slowdown in overall market expansion.

August 4, 2025 — Novo Files Suits Against 14 Compounding Pharmacies

Novo Nordisk filed lawsuits against 14 pharmacies allegedly involved in compounding and distributing non-FDA-approved semaglutide products. The company alleges these medications are derived from questionable supply chains that may include foreign-sourced active pharmaceutical ingredients of unknown purity.

July 2025

July 31, 2025 — Patients Describe Debilitating Side Effects

An Ohio woman filed a Mounjaro lawsuit in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, alleging stomach paralysis and other serious complications after less than 12 months of injections. Separately, Indiana resident Terry Smith filed suit against both Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly, claiming that Ozempic, Trulicity, and Victoza caused gastroparesis, severe vomiting, and extreme abdominal pain that required emergency medical care. Smith’s lawsuit also alleges that Eli Lilly has downplayed the risk of muscle loss — a known side effect of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs.

July 30, 2025 — New Jersey NAION Consolidation Gains Momentum

More than 30 NAION victims filed requests to consolidate their New Jersey state court cases into a multicounty litigation (MCL). The plaintiffs requested that the proceedings be designated to Middlesex County, where numerous related cases were already pending before multiple judges. This proceeding is distinct from a class action — it represents a coordinated mass tort designed to promote consistent rulings and streamlined discovery.

July 29, 2025 — Swedish Study Links Semaglutide to Retinal Vein Occlusion

Swedish researchers published a study identifying a possible connection between semaglutide use and retinal vein occlusion (RVO) — a serious eye condition capable of causing sudden vision loss. The findings added to a growing body of evidence linking GLP-1 drugs to various forms of ocular injury.

July 20, 2025 — Plaintiffs Request ‘Vision Track’ Within Federal MDL

Plaintiffs’ attorneys in the GLP-1 MDL filed a motion requesting the creation of a dedicated ‘Vision Injury Track’ within the existing MDL structure. The motion noted that more than 140 lawsuits in the MDL already involve allegations of partial or total blindness.

July 15, 2025 — Hims & Hers Investors File Derivative Lawsuit

Shareholders of telehealth company Hims & Hers filed a derivative lawsuit in federal court in San Francisco, alleging that the company’s directors and senior executives made false and misleading statements about the company’s financial condition following Novo Nordisk’s decision to terminate a short-lived Wegovy partnership with Hims & Hers. Novo’s exit triggered a significant drop in Hims & Hers’ share price.

July 10, 2025 — New York Victim Sues Over 85% Vision Loss

Geoffrey Symonds of New York filed an Ozempic lawsuit in New Jersey federal court, alleging that Ozempic caused him to lose 85% of the sight in his left eye. His complaint describes ongoing bilateral vision loss, anxiety, and an inability to manage daily life as a direct result of his condition. Symonds was prescribed Ozempic from late November 2021 into early 2022.

July 3, 2025 — JAMA Ophthalmology Study Finds Sevenfold NAION Risk

Harvard Medical School researchers published landmark findings in JAMA Ophthalmology, concluding that Ozempic and Wegovy users may face up to seven times the risk of developing NAION compared to patients taking other medications. The study used a retrospective matched cohort design, analyzing data from December 2017 through November 2023.

Key findings:

• Type 2 diabetes patients on semaglutide: Hazard ratio of 4.28 for NAION — over four times the risk of non-GLP-1 RA users
• Obese patients on semaglutide: 20 NAION events vs. 3 in control group — hazard ratio of 7.64

This research is expected to play a significant role in supporting plaintiffs’ claims in the pending MDL.

June 2025

June 27, 2025 — WHO Issues NAION Safety Alert for Semaglutide

The World Health Organization issued a public health alert warning healthcare professionals and regulatory authorities worldwide about the risk of NAION associated with semaglutide medications — including Ozempic, Rybelsus, and Wegovy. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) simultaneously recommended that product labeling for these drugs be updated to include NAION as a recognized side effect, classified as ‘very rare.’

June 18, 2025 — Federal Judge Upholds FDA Decision on Semaglutide Shortage List

A federal judge in Fort Worth, Texas upheld the FDA’s decision to remove semaglutide from the drug shortage list, rejecting a legal challenge from compounding pharmacies that sought to continue producing copycat GLP-1 medications. The court found that the FDA had properly assessed the supply and demand situation for semaglutide.

June 6, 2025 — European Medicines Agency Reports Twofold NAION Risk

The European Medicines Agency released findings from multiple large epidemiological studies concluding that adults with Type 2 diabetes who use semaglutide face approximately twice the risk of developing NAION compared to non-users. The EMA estimated this translates to roughly one additional NAION case per 10,000 person-years of treatment.

June 5, 2025 — University of Toronto Study: GLP-1 Doubles AMD Risk

A study published in JAMA Ophthalmology by researchers at the University of Toronto found that GLP-1 receptor agonist users faced twice the risk of developing neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) compared to non-GLP-1 users. The study analyzed medical data from over one million Ontario residents with diabetes and identified more than 46,000 patients aged 66 and older with GLP-1 prescriptions, of whom 97.5% were prescribed semaglutide.

May 2025

May 20, 2025 — Multiple Vision Loss Lawsuits Reported

More than a dozen lawsuits were filed on behalf of patients claiming that popular GLP-1 medications caused permanent vision loss. Plaintiffs from New York and New Jersey alleged that semaglutide use resulted in NAION — a sudden loss of blood flow to the optic nerve causing irreversible blindness in one or both eyes.

May 1, 2025 — Eli Lilly Escalates Legal Fight Against Compounding Pharmacies

Eli Lilly expanded its legal campaign against telehealth companies and pharmacies distributing compounded GLP-1 copies, filing suit under the Lanham Act, the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FDCA), and California’s corporate practice of medicine (CPOM) laws. The lawsuits allege unfair and deceptive advertising practices.

April 2025

April 2025 — CDC Study: 25,000+ Emergency Visits Linked to Semaglutide

A CDC-related study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine estimated that semaglutide was linked to over 25,000 emergency department visits between 2022 and 2023. The majority occurred in 2023 and were primarily associated with injectable semaglutide, involving severe gastrointestinal complications or hypoglycemia. Many cases required hospitalization.

April 29, 2025 — Maryland Man Now Legally Blind After Ozempic

Todd Engel of Howard County, Maryland, filed a nine-count lawsuit in New Jersey state court against Novo Nordisk after developing NAION and becoming legally blind. He had been prescribed Ozempic in August 2023 to treat Type 2 diabetes. By December 2024, he was diagnosed with NAION and can no longer work. In a press statement, Engel said: “This isn’t just about me not being able to see or go to work anymore… this is also about being unable to see my loved ones, too. I will never see my wife’s smile ever again.”

March 2025

March 31, 2025 — Semaglutide Shows Promise for Peripheral Artery Disease

Clinical trial results from the STRIDE trial, led by Dr. Subodh Verma at St. Michael’s Hospital, demonstrated that semaglutide may benefit patients with peripheral artery disease and Type 2 diabetes. The findings were presented at the American College of Cardiology Annual Meeting and published in The Lancet, representing a meaningful expansion of potential therapeutic applications for GLP-1 drugs.

March 18, 2025 — Eli Lilly Motion Challenges Expert Testimony on Gastroparesis

Eli Lilly filed a motion asking the court to rule that any valid gastroparesis diagnosis must be based on contemporaneous objective testing — not clinical impressions alone. The motion sought to exclude expert testimony that would allow diagnoses without supporting diagnostic evidence, framing the issue as one of scientific reliability.

January 2025

January 31, 2025 — FDA Approves Ozempic for Chronic Kidney Disease

The FDA approved Ozempic for the treatment of chronic kidney disease in patients with Type 2 diabetes. The European Medicines Agency’s Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) also authorized Novo Nordisk to update Ozempic’s label to reflect kidney disease risk reduction and prevention of kidney failure-related death.

January 31, 2025 — 222-Page Ozempic Lawsuit Filed in Pennsylvania

Diane Dyess filed a comprehensive 222-page Ozempic lawsuit — Dyess v. Novo Nordisk Inc. et al — in the federal MDL in Pennsylvania, alleging severe side effects including gastroparesis. The complaint accuses Novo Nordisk of operating a deceptive and misleading marketing campaign that downplayed serious risks and led to widespread off-label prescriptions. Dyess asserted causes of action including negligence, failure to warn, strict product liability, fraudulent concealment, intentional misrepresentation, breach of warranty, and design defect. She sought compensatory and punitive damages, as well as declaratory and injunctive relief.

 

2024 Lawsuit Updates & Developments

December 2024

December 12, 2024 — JAMA Ophthalmology Reports Fourfold NAION Risk

Landmark research published in JAMA Ophthalmology found that patients with Type 2 diabetes using semaglutide faced a four times greater risk of NAION compared to those on alternative medications. For overweight patients using semaglutide for weight management, that risk rose to eight times the baseline. The study identified an association — not direct causation — and called for further investigation into clinical implications.

September 2024

September 2, 2024 — Court Approves Expedited Discovery on Key Issues

The presiding judge approved the manufacturers’ request for expedited discovery on two pivotal issues central to the GLP-1 MDL:

• Whether diagnostic testing for gastroparesis is scientifically reliable in this context
• Whether the warning labels on GLP-1 drugs are legally adequate

August 2024

August 23, 2024 — Study Raises Concerns Over Suicidal Ideation

Researchers from the University of Zurich and the Zucker School of Medicine published findings in JAMA Network Open suggesting a disproportionate signal of suicidal ideation among semaglutide users compared to patients taking other diabetes medications. The finding remained statistically significant even in subgroups with co-reported antidepressant and benzodiazepine use.

August 6–8, 2024 — Ozempic MDL Expands Rapidly

The number of GLP-1 lawsuits in MDL 3094 surged from approximately 110 in July 2024 to around 345 in August 2024 — a more than 200% increase in about 30 days. A status conference was held and Case Management Order No. 17 was issued, establishing time and expense protocols for attorneys acting on behalf of all plaintiffs.

August 2024 — European Medicines Agency Mandates Vision Loss Warnings

The European Medicines Agency directed manufacturers of Ozempic and related GLP-1 drugs to update their warning labels to include the risk of vision loss and NAION as recognized potential side effects.

July 2024

July 31, 2024 — Special Discovery Master Appointed

The Honorable Lawrence F. Stengel (Ret.) was appointed as Special Discovery Master to oversee discovery proceedings between all parties in the MDL. Judge Stengel was confirmed to possess the skills and experience necessary to manage discovery in a complex, high-volume mass tort litigation.

July 5–6, 2024 — Early NAION Research Triggers Litigation Wave

Preliminary research published in JAMA Ophthalmology established a potential link between semaglutide and NAION. Harvard researchers concurrently published findings showing a sevenfold increased risk of NAION in Ozempic users. These publications served as a catalyst for the rapid increase in NAION-related lawsuits that followed in the coming months.

July 2024 — Zepbound Shows Promise for Sleep Apnea

Eli Lilly announced results from two clinical studies examining tirzepatide (Zepbound) in obese patients with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Both studies — one involving CPAP users, one without — showed significant reductions in sleep-disordered breathing events and approximately 20% body weight loss. Participants saw irregular breathing events drop by over 50% in one study and nearly 62% in another.

June 2024

June 10, 2024 — Judge Karen Marston Takes Over GLP-1 MDL

Following the unexpected passing of U.S. District Judge Gene E.K. Pratter in May 2024, the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation selected U.S. District Judge Karen S. Marston to preside over the Ozempic MDL. Marston, a former federal prosecutor appointed to the bench in 2019, has overseen the litigation ever since. Industry experts have projected that the MDL could ultimately exceed 10,000 lawsuits.

May 2024

May 30, 2024 — Novo Nordisk Sues Nine Companies Over Counterfeit Semaglutide

Novo Nordisk filed lawsuits against nine companies — including Aesthetic Maison, Midtown Express, MediOAK, and Weight Loss MD — for distributing compounded products they falsely marketed as containing semaglutide. In some cases, the products allegedly contained up to 24% impure ingredients, potentially capable of causing severe allergic reactions. Novo sought approximately $75,000 in damages per defendant and demanded immediate cessation of distribution.

February–March 2024

February 18, 2024 — Federal MDL Established in Eastern District of Pennsylvania

The U.S. Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation centralized all pending federal Ozempic lawsuits in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, designating Judge Gene E.K. Pratter as the presiding judge. The MDL also encompassed claims related to Eli Lilly’s Mounjaro and Zepbound. Attorneys anticipated thousands of additional lawsuits in the years ahead, primarily focused on allegations that manufacturers failed to adequately warn patients about the risk of gastroparesis.

February 14, 2024 — First NJ State Court Ozempic Lawsuits Filed

Victims began filing Ozempic lawsuits in New Jersey state courts in addition to the federal MDL. In an Essex County case, Karetha Tinsley v. Novo Nordisk et al, the plaintiff alleged a gallbladder injury requiring surgical removal as a result of Ozempic use, asserting claims under the New Jersey Products Liability Act.

March 13, 2024 — Early Gastroparesis Lawsuit Filed

Caren Elosua filed one of the early Ozempic lawsuits in the MDL, alleging that Novo Nordisk was aware that Ozempic caused serious gastrointestinal complications including gastroparesis but continued to market the drug without adequate warnings.

2023 Lawsuit Foundations

December 2023

December 8, 2023 — First Major Court Victory for Ozempic Plaintiff

A federal judge in Louisiana denied Novo Nordisk’s motion to dismiss one of the earliest Ozempic lawsuits, filed by plaintiff Jaclyn Bjorklund. The court found that Bjorklund had alleged sufficient facts to support her claim that Novo Nordisk failed to warn her healthcare providers about the risk of gastroparesis. This ruling helped open the door for the wave of litigation that followed.

November 2023

November 8, 2023 — FDA Approves Zepbound for Obesity Treatment

The FDA approved Zepbound (tirzepatide) for weight management in adults aged 18 and older who are obese or overweight and have at least one weight-related comorbidity, such as high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, or elevated cholesterol. This approval positioned Zepbound as a direct competitor to Wegovy in the weight-loss drug market.

Understanding the GLP-1 Multidistrict Litigation (MDL)

Multidistrict litigation (MDL) is a federal procedural tool used to consolidate large numbers of similar lawsuits filed across different federal courts into a single district for coordinated pretrial proceedings. The GLP-1 MDL — officially known as MDL No. 3094 — is currently pending in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania under Judge Karen S. Marston.

What Is a Bellwether Trial?

Once the pretrial discovery process concludes, Judge Marston is expected to select a handful of representative cases for ‘bellwether’ trials. These test cases are tried before a jury to help assess the overall strength of the claims and the potential settlement value of the litigation. Bellwether outcomes typically carry enormous weight in driving global settlement negotiations.

New Jersey State Court Litigation

In addition to the federal MDL, a substantial number of GLP-1 lawsuits have been filed in New Jersey state courts. This is permitted because Novo Nordisk — the manufacturer of Ozempic and Wegovy — maintains its U.S. headquarters in New Jersey. The NJ state court proceedings are organized as multicounty litigations (MCLs) — one for gastrointestinal injury claims and a separate MCL for NAION vision loss claims — both presided over by Superior Court Judge Gregg A. Padovano.

Types of Claims in the Litigation

The pending GLP-1 lawsuits allege a wide range of injuries and legal violations, including:

• Gastroparesis (stomach paralysis) and other serious gastrointestinal complications
• Non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) and other vision loss
• Bowel obstruction and intestinal blockage
• Failure to warn patients and physicians of known risks
• Misleading and deceptive marketing practices
• Distribution of counterfeit or substandard compounded semaglutide products