Weight Loss and Diabetes Drug Lawsuit

Suffered Complications After Taking a Diabetes Drug for Weight Loss? Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation

At Oaks Law Firm, our Los Angeles mass tort attorneys possess the skills and experience necessary to navigate weight loss and diabetes drug lawsuits. While these drugs have gained popularity as weight loss aids, serious concerns about their safety have emerged. Our firm is dedicated to advocating for individuals and families, not large corporations. If you or a loved one have experienced adverse health effects after using a diabetes drug for weight loss, our team is here to assist you. Reach out to our Los Angeles office today for a free, confidential consultation with a California mass tort attorney.

An Overview of the Diabetes Drug and Weight Loss Trend

In recent years, prescription medications originally developed to treat diabetes have found a new purpose in weight loss and management. This trend has gained momentum, with even prominent figures in Hollywood endorsing it. Notably, a drug initially intended for Type 2 diabetes treatment—semaglutide—has garnered significant attention due to its weight loss effects.

Semaglutide, present in brand-name drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus, has witnessed a surge in demand, particularly from non-diabetic individuals seeking weight reduction. In 2021, the FDA approved Wegovy, containing a higher semaglutide dosage, for chronic weight management in obese adults. Although supply shortages were a concern last year, the FDA now assures its wide availability, leading to increased usage.

Too Good to Be True? (Stomach Paralysis Reported)

While these weight loss drugs have shown some positive outcomes, reports of severe side effects have emerged, raising questions about their safety. These side effects go beyond the anticipated nausea and upset stomach mentioned as potential drawbacks. According to CNN, some individuals have experienced stomach paralysis—a concerning development.

Semaglutides function by delaying digestion and prolonging the sensation of fullness, aiding in weight management. However, excessive slowing of stomach movement can lead to severe health complications. CNN highlighted cases where individuals were diagnosed with severe gastroparesis—a condition in which stomach muscles malfunction, causing delayed gastric emptying. In essence, the stomach fails to contract and move its contents into the small intestine as required.

Weight Loss Drugs Could Lead to Mass Tort Claims or Even Class Action Lawsuits

Numerous safety concerns remain regarding prominent diabetes drugs repurposed for weight loss. More information is needed about the potential risks associated with these drugs, including the extent of pharmaceutical companies’ knowledge and the timing of such knowledge. The possibility of mass tort claims or even class action lawsuits looms.

Mass tort claims involve multiple plaintiffs suing one or a few defendants for harm caused by systemic actions, often linked to defective products or mass accidents. In contrast, class action lawsuits involve one or more individuals representing a larger group—the “class”—affected by the same wrongdoing.

Understanding Defective Drug Claims in California

Prescription medications are incredibly powerful. Beyond efficacy (how well they work), drug companies also have a general responsibility to ensure that these drugs are reasonably safe for consumers. In California, a drug manufacturer or other company may bear legal liability for a drug that is unreasonably dangerous to the point of being defective. Here are some of the key things to understand about dangerous and defective drug claims in California:

1. Several Types of Drug Defectives (Contamination, Design Errors, Improper Warnings): Defective drug claims in California generally fall into three categories. The first is contamination, where drugs are tainted during manufacturing or handling, posing health risks to patients. It is effectively a manufacturing defect. The second category is design errors. These occur when inherent flaws in the drug’s composition or formulation can lead to adverse health effects. Finally, a third type of drug defect involves improper warnings or instructions. These occur when failure to provide adequate information about the drug’s use, potential side effects, or contraindications can lead to harm to the users (patients).
2. Drug Manufacturers May Bear Liability: In California, drug manufacturers are often held liable for damages caused by their products. The legal liability is grounded in the principle that manufacturers have a duty to ensure their products are safe for consumption and properly labeled. Notably, dangerous and defective drug claims—including weight loss and diabetes drug lawsuits—may fall under California’s strict liability standard. A pharmaceutical company may be strictly liable for harm caused by a defective drug.
3. Two-Year Statute of Limitations: You do not have an unlimited amount of time to bring your defective drug lawsuit in California. A strict statute of limitations applies to these claims. As a general rule, injured victims have two years from the date they knew or reasonably should have known about the injury caused by the defective drug to file a claim. What happens if you wait too long to file your claim? You could lose out on your rights. Do not wait: Consult with a California defective drug lawyer as soon as possible.

Recovering Full and Fair Financial Compensation for Victims and Families

Did you or your loved one develop any type of serious medical complications after taking one of the newest weight loss/diabetes drugs (semaglutide)? If so, it is imperative that you know how to protect your legal rights and financial interests. Financial compensation may be available for the full extent of your damages, including both economic damages and non-economic losses. Our California defective drug lawyers help injured victims maximize their recovery, including for: 

• Property damage 
• Emergency room care 
• Other medical costs 
• Loss of wages/loss of earning power 
• Pain and suffering 
• Mental distress 
• Long-term physical impairment
• Wrongful death of a family member

Weight Loss and Diabetes Drug Claims: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Semaglutide (Weight Loss Drug)?

Semaglutide is the generic name of the active ingredient in the new wave of weight loss/diabetes drugs. It is recognized as a medication primarily used for managing type 2 diabetes and aiding weight loss. Semaglutide is administered through an injection. It functions by mimicking a hormone that regulates appetite and food intake. Semaglutide has appetite-suppressing properties that have been shown to help support weight management. The early data has shown that semaglutide has considerable efficacy for weight loss—at least over the short term. There are still outstanding questions over the long-term results. Keeping weight off is more challenging for most people. 

What Side Effects are Associated With Semaglutide?

Unfortunately, there are many adverse side effects associated with semaglutide. Indeed, some real safety questions have been raised about these drugs. Some of the most alarming side effects include: 

• Gastrointestinal issues, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation (the most common issues). 
• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) especially when used with other diabetes medications. 
• Increased heart rate is occasionally experienced by some users. 
• Kidney problems, including worsening of chronic kidney disease.
• Pancreatitis, a serious inflammation of the pancreas, has been noted in rare instances. 

Of course, this is a non-exhaustive list of the potential side effects. These are still relatively new drugs. Any medical complications should be evaluated by a licensed doctor.  

What Should I Do If I Think I’m Being Harmed By Semaglutide?

Are you taking one of the new weight loss drugs? Are you experiencing any type of adverse side effect that you believe is connected to the medication? It is crucial that you take immediate action to protect your health, safety, and overall well-being. If harm from Semaglutide is suspected, it is advised that medical assistance be sought immediately. Symptoms or concerns should be communicated clearly to healthcare professionals. You may need to stop taking the drug right away. Your healthcare provider will be in the best position to determine what needs to be done. 

Do I Have a Claim Against a Drug Manufacturer or Other Company?

You might. It is time to consult with an experienced Los Angeles dangerous and defective drug attorney. Determining whether a claim against a drug manufacturer or other company exists depends on various factors. These include the specific circumstances of the drug’s use, the nature and severity of any side effects experienced, and the information provided by the manufacturer or healthcare provider. Do not go it alone: Set up a free case review with a top-tier lawyer.

Why Trust the Los Angeles Mass Tort Attorneys at Oaks Law Firm

If you used semaglutide-based drugs initially designed for diabetes but later used for weight loss, resulting in complications like stomach paralysis, you may have a valid legal claim. These cases are in their preliminary stages, underscoring the importance of having adept legal representation. At Oaks Law Firm, we prioritize our clients’ needs and interests. Our Los Angeles mass tort attorneys are poised to:

• Listen to your experience and address your legal inquiries.
• Conduct an investigation, including collecting medical records and evidence.
• Handle the legal claims process, including any negotiations with defendants/insurers.
• Develop a personalized legal strategy to secure justice and compensation.

Seek Assistance from Our Weight Loss and Diabetes Drug Lawsuit Attorneys Today

At Oaks Law Firm, we boast specialized skills, experience, and legal proficiency to tackle diverse mass tort cases. If you have queries or concerns about a weight loss and diabetes drug lawsuit, our team is here to assist. Arrange your free, fully confidential consultation today. With a presence in Los Angeles, we handle defective drug lawsuits throughout California. Your pursuit of justice begins here.

CALL TODAY! (877) 539-5366

Recovering the Damages You Deserve

If someone else is to blame for your injuries, you have the right to seek compensation for the full amount of damages you've suffered. These damages can include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, as well as pain and suffering. You must bring forth your claim within one year of the accident date. Not filing your case within one year will bar you from recovery.