A woman clutches her stomach in pain. She wonders can Ozempic cause gallbladder problems?

Does Ozempic Cause Gallbladder Problems?

By Levin Simes
October 3, 2024

Ozempic has become one of the most sought-after prescription drugs for treating type 2 diabetes. In fact, a survey found that 1 in 8 adults in the U.S. has taken Ozempic or another GLP-1 drug.

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Also known by its generic name, semaglutide, Ozempic is known as a medication for weight management. However, with these benefits may also come significant risks.

The award-winning attorneys at Levin Simes will fight for those facing the negative side effects of Ozempic. An Ozempic gastroparesis attorney will determine if the drug caused gallbladder problems. We are available 24/7 to schedule a free consultation online or by calling (415) 426-3000 to discuss your legal options in pursuing damages.

Why Does Ozempic Cause Gallbladder Problems?

The gallbladder is part of the digestive system and is responsible for bile storage and discharge. 

The liver supplies bile to the gallbladder to assist with processing fat in our food. Many medical professionals now suspect Ozempic potentially increases cholesterol. This causes the gallbladder to work harder to break down the cholesterol.

However, the gallbladder may struggle to keep up with processing the leftover cholesterol, leading to gallstones. This has led medical professionals to question: “can Ozempic cause gallbladder problems?”

Research shows that certain factors may increase the risk of gallbladder issues in Ozempic patients, such as: 

  • Taking higher doses of Ozempic
  • Using Ozempic for longer periods of time
  • Taking Ozempic solely for weight loss purposes

Can Ozempic Cause Gallstones? 

Ozempic product information details the warnings and precautions of semaglutide injection. In trial studies, verifiable reports exist of gallstones in 1.5% of patients receiving a dosage of Ozempic. Gallstones from individuals receiving a placebo in the same trial study remained at zero cases.

Even more concerning, 90% of those who developed gallstones required gallbladder removal.

Why Does Ozempic Cause Gallstones?

The gallbladder may become unable to complete its processes when cholesterol levels become too high.

Since Ozempic may increase cholesterol in the body, this can lead to an increased risk of gallstones forming in patients.

As a result, the materials in bile, cholesterol, bilirubin, or salts form deposits identified as gallstones. Smaller gallstones often pass without notice, while larger stones require medical care.

Large gallstones or the compounding of multiple gallstones may create blockages in the bile duct. The gallbladder can become unable to release bile. The blockage may lead to inflammation, which requires surgical intervention.

Sadly, in some cases, treatment may require the removal of the patient’s gallbladder altogether.

Can Ozempic Cause Gallbladder Problems Besides Gallstones?

A National Library of Medicine report shows an association between semaglutide and gallbladder and biliary tract issues. Multiple gallbladder disorders may occur. These health issues include:

  • Cholelithiasis: The medical term for gallstones, which are the stone-like deposits that form in the gallbladder.
  • Cholecystitis: Inflammation of the gallbladder, often caused by gallstones blocking the bile duct.
  • Cholecystokinin secretion suppression: A decrease in a hormone that helps the gallbladder release bile, which can affect digestion and gallbladder health.
  • A reduction in gallbladder emptying
  • Prolonged gallbladder refilling
  • A combination of these health issues

The team at Levin Simes recognizes the impact of adverse medication effects.

We fight for clients facing complex medical problems. The impact of these drugs and medical products warrants action against those who endanger millions of lives. 

Our successful history of verdicts and settlements shows our dedication to justice and commitment to fair compensation to address all the ways dangerous medications affect innocent patients.

What are the Symptoms of Gallbladder Problems?

Seek medical care immediately if you experience symptoms or side effects while using Ozempic. Although it might seem like a miracle weight loss solution, there have been several reports of dangerous side effects linked to Ozempic.

Speak with a side effect drug lawyer if you experience the following symptoms when using Ozempic:

  • Pain in the abdomen in the mid- to upper-right quadrant
  • Fever or chills indicating infection
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Stool abnormalities reflecting a change in color or chronic diarrhea
  • Dark or discolored urine
  • Jaundice

Our successful history of fighting for those impacted by dangerous drugs makes our firm the choice for clients with gallbladder problems after using Ozempic. Read more about what our clients say about our services. Levin Simes invests in your maximum financial recovery.

Is Filing an Ozempic Gallbladder Lawsuit Possible?

If you are suffering gallbladder problems while taking Ozempic, you may be eligible to file an Ozempic gallbladder lawsuit. 

Ozempic now carries a warning label that describes the various side effects patients may experience. However, prior to 2022, Ozempic’s label lacked proper warnings, leaving patients blindsided by frightening health consequences, like gallbladder disease.

A member of our experienced team will sit down one-on-one with you to determine if you have a strong claim and explain how we can help. We will dive deep into the evidence of your claim and file a legal action on your behalf within the time limits defined by your state.

What Does It Cost to Hire a Lawyer in an Ozempic Lawsuit?

State laws will require you to prove a dangerous drug, like Ozempic, resulted in gallbladder problems and the damages you experience.

Working with a law firm with experience in handling dangerous drug litigation is an effective way to collect strong evidence to support your case and seek financial support.

Levin Simes strives to remove the financial barriers to representation by charging you no fees for our services unless we secure a successful settlement or verdict in your case. This means that you won’t pay a cent unless we win.

What Other Health Effects Have Been Linked to Ozempic?

Are you suffering from negative side effects from Ozempic, Wegovy, or other similar drugs? The weight loss is not worth your life. 

Contact the lawyers at Levin Simes online or call (415) 426-3000 to set up a free consultation to discuss your case. Read on to learn more about Ozempic lawsuits and what you can do to pursue your claim.

Consumers expect the products they use to work as described by the manufacturer and to be safe. 

However, long-term use of Ozempic may increase the risk of cancer and other significant health issues, such as:

  • Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain.
  • Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas, leading to severe abdominal pain.
  • Kidney Damage: Possible worsening of kidney function, especially in those with pre-existing kidney conditions.
  • Thyroid Tumors: A potential increased risk of developing thyroid tumors, including cancer, although this is rare.
  • Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia): Especially when used with other diabetes medications.
  • Allergic Reactions: Rash, itching, or difficulty breathing.
  • Heart Rate Increase: Possible elevated heart rate during use.

While these lawsuits involve complex legal issues, our firm has experience successfully navigating cases involving dangerous drugs.

Our previous research and investment in these cases only offer more support for your claim. Experiencing severe health issues as a result of using a product thought to be safe is life-changing. But our team is ready to support you on your road to recovery. 

Are You Experiencing Gallbladder Problems After Using Ozempic?

You may develop gallbladder problems if you use Ozempic to treat type 2 diabetes, weight loss, or any other medical condition. While it is possible to live without your gallbladder, you may still suffer costly damages as a result of Ozempic use. Complications from treatment or surgery may also contribute to your costs and damages.

Contact Levin Simes online or call (415) 426-3000 to schedule a 100% free consultation with our knowledgeable Ozempic attorneys.

We offer our services nationwide to make legal representation more available to you. We are ready to listen, develop a legal strategy, and support you throughout the legal process and your financial recovery.

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