A Louisiana federal judge, James Cain Jr, largely denied Novo Nordisk's attempt to dismiss an early lawsuit regarding the side effects of Ozempic, a popular medication by the pharmaceutical giant. The plaintiff, Jaclyn Bjorklund, claims the company failed to warn of the risk of gastroparesis, a condition that slows stomach emptying, associated with the drug. While the judge dismissed a breach of express warranty claim due to lack of specific promises by Novo Nordisk, Bjorklund has the opportunity to amend and refile her complaint.

Novo Nordisk stands by the safety of its drug, stating the side effects Bjorklund experienced are documented in the FDA-approved label and that it continuously monitors its drugs' safety. Bjorklund, who switched from Ozempic to Eli Lilly's Mounjaro in 2023 for her Type 2 diabetes treatment, alleges both drugs caused her severe vomiting, pain, hospital visits, and tooth loss. Eli Lilly also contends the lawsuit is meritless and emphasizes its commitment to monitoring its medicines' safety.

This case is part of a growing number of lawsuits against Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly, involving nearly 20 additional claims since August. These lawsuits allege that the companies did not adequately warn users about potential severe side effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Wegovy, used for diabetes treatment and weight loss assistance. The plaintiffs argue these side effects, including stomach and intestinal issues, were downplayed or not sufficiently disclosed.