A woman has filed a lawsuit against Novo Nordisk, the pharmaceutical company behind the widely used diabetes medications Ozempic and Wegovy, alleging that the drugs’ labeling inadequately warns of potential severe side effects. Juanita Gantt, who appeared on CBS Mornings, claims that her colon had to be removed as a result of taking the medication.
Novo Nordisk has responded to the allegations, asserting that the lawsuit is “without merit.”
Gantt, 62, was initially prescribed Wegovy and later Ozempic due to concerns that she might develop diabetes. At the time, she weighed 242 pounds. Gantt recounted to CBS that she initially experienced positive effects from the medication. “I was feeling fine. I enjoyed the days that I didn’t have to worry about my appetite. I didn’t have cravings. I just felt like I was doing something positive for myself,” she said.
However, in October 2023, Gantt’s health took a dramatic turn. She reported that her husband found her unconscious on the floor. Following this incident, Gantt was diagnosed with severe complications; parts of her large intestine had died and required surgical removal. During her recovery, she suffered a cardiac arrest and now lives with an ileostomy bag, a medical device used to collect waste after surgery that alters the body’s waste-excretion process.
“I had no warning that this was even a possibility,” Gantt told CBS, expressing her frustration with the lack of clear warning about potential risks associated with the medication.
Ozempic and Wegovy contain semaglutide and liraglutide, respectively, which are classified as GLP-1 receptor agonists. These drugs work by delaying food digestion, which, when used long-term, can lead to various gastrointestinal issues. The potential for such complications was highlighted last July when other users of these medications reported developing gastroparesis—a condition that significantly slows digestion and can be harmful.
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A representative from Novo Nordisk commented on the situation, saying, “We are aware of the health challenges this patient has experienced and are sympathetic to her health journey. Patient safety is our top priority at Novo Nordisk, and we work closely with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to continuously monitor the safety profile of our medicines.”
The representative continued, “However, Novo Nordisk believes that the allegations in this lawsuit are without merit, and we intend to vigorously defend against these claims. GLP-1 medicines have been used to treat type 2 diabetes (T2D) for more than 19 years and for the treatment of obesity for almost 10 years. This includes Novo Nordisk GLP-1 products such as semaglutide and liraglutide, which have been on the market for over 13 years. Semaglutide has been extensively examined in robust clinical development programs, large real-world evidence studies, and has accumulated over 9.5 million patient-years of clinical experience.”
The spokesperson emphasized that the known risks and benefits of semaglutide and liraglutide are clearly outlined in their FDA-approved product labeling. “Novo Nordisk stands behind the safety and efficacy of all of our GLP-1 medicines when they are used as indicated and under the care of a licensed healthcare professional,” the statement concluded.
The lawsuit highlights ongoing concerns about the potential side effects of popular diabetes and weight-loss medications. As legal proceedings unfold, the case may prompt further scrutiny of drug labeling practices and the communication of potential risks to patients.
