Ozempic (semaglutide) can cause side effects ranging from mild symptoms like nausea and constipation to serious risks such as pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, and potential thyroid tumors. While many patients tolerate it well, long-term safety is still under review, and lawsuits have been filed over severe complications. If you’ve suffered injuries from Ozempic, legal options may be available.

Key Takeaways

• Common side effects: nausea, diarrhea, constipation, headache.

• Serious risks: pancreatitis, gallstones, kidney injury, thyroid tumors (rare).

• Weight loss use increases reports of GI complications.

• Long-term side effects are still being studied.

• Legal claims are emerging for patients who suffered severe or undisclosed risks.

 

What is Ozempic (Semaglutide)?

Ozempic is a once-weekly injectable medication containing semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for treating type 2 diabetes. It helps lower blood sugar and, increasingly, is prescribed off-label for weight loss.
Similar drugs include Rybelsus (oral semaglutide), Wegovy (high-dose semaglutide), and Mounjaro (tirzepatide).

 

Common Side Effects of Ozempic

Most patients experience gastrointestinal issues when starting Ozempic. The most common side effects include:

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• Nausea (especially during the first weeks)

• Diarrhea

• Constipation

• Abdominal pain

• Headache & fatigue

 

These symptoms often improve with time but can disrupt daily life.

 

Serious & Rare Side Effects of Ozempic

While less frequent, serious complications have been reported:

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• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)

• Gallbladder disease (including gallstones)

• Kidney damage or failure

• Thyroid tumors (C-cell tumors in animal studies; FDA boxed warning)

• Severe allergic reactions

 

Patients experiencing severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or yellowing of the skin should seek emergency care.

 

Long-Term Side Effects of Ozempic

The long-term risks of Ozempic and semaglutide remain under study. Concerns include:

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• Possible increased cancer risk (thyroid tumors, pancreatic cancer studies ongoing)

• Nutritional deficiencies due to prolonged GI issues

• Potential cardiovascular benefits (FDA is reviewing long-term heart data)

 

Because Ozempic is relatively new, long-term safety data (10+ years) is not yet available.

 

Ozempic Weight Loss Side Effects

Ozempic has become a popular weight loss aid, but reports suggest that weight loss patients may face:

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• More frequent nausea and vomiting

• Rapid weight loss complications (muscle loss, gallstones)

• “Ozempic face” – cosmetic side effect where rapid fat loss causes sagging skin

 

How Long Do Ozempic Side Effects Last?

For many, mild side effects improve within weeks to months as the body adjusts.
However, serious complications like pancreatitis or gallbladder disease can be permanent and life-threatening, requiring medical intervention.

 

Side Effects by Symptom

• Ozempic Nausea – Most common; usually decreases with time.

• Ozempic Constipation – Often treated with hydration and fiber.

• Ozempic Diarrhea – Can lead to dehydration if persistent.

• Ozempic Headache – Usually mild, linked to changes in blood sugar.

• Ozempic Hair Loss – Not officially recognized, but widely reported anecdotally.

 

Side Effects of Ozempic Injections vs Pills (Rybelsus)

• Ozempic (injection): GI issues more common during dose escalation.

• Rybelsus (oral pill): May cause more stomach irritation but avoids injection site reactions.

 

Ozempic vs Wegovy & Mounjaro: Comparing Side Effects

• Wegovy (high-dose semaglutide): Higher risk of GI side effects.

• Mounjaro (tirzepatide): Dual-acting drug, often reported as stronger but with similar nausea/diarrhea rates.

 

Who is at Higher Risk of Ozempic Side Effects?

• Patients with history of pancreatitis

• Those with gallbladder disease

• People with family history of thyroid cancer

• Patients with kidney issues

 

FDA Warnings & Safety Concerns

The FDA has issued a boxed warning on semaglutide regarding:

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• Thyroid C-cell tumors (based on animal studies)

• Risk of pancreatitis

• Hypoglycemia when combined with other diabetes medications

 

What Patients Say: Ozempic Side Effects Reviews

Online forums, Reddit, and patient reviews frequently mention:

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• Nausea so severe it disrupts daily life

• Rapid weight loss with unintended side effects

• Mixed experiences – some tolerate it well, others quit within weeks

 

Legal Risks: Can You File a Lawsuit for Ozempic Side Effects?

Lawsuits are being filed alleging drugmakers failed to adequately warn patients of severe risks, including pancreatitis, gallstones, kidney damage, and potential cancer risks.
If you suffered severe complications, you may qualify for compensation through a dangerous drug lawsuit.

 

Compensation for Ozempic Injuries: What to Expect

Potential compensation may cover:

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• Medical expenses

• Lost wages

• Pain and suffering

• Wrongful death claims (for families of deceased patients)

 

What to Do If You Experience Side Effects

1. Seek medical attention immediately for severe symptoms.

2. Document your condition (medical records, journal of symptoms).

3. Contact a law firm to review your case and explore compensation options.

 

FAQs: Ozempic Side Effects & Legal Questions

Q1: What are the most common Ozempic side effects?

Nausea, diarrhea, constipation, headache, and abdominal pain are most common.

 

Q2: Can Ozempic cause long-term damage?

Yes, in some cases. Pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, and kidney issues may cause lasting harm.

 

Q3: Is hair loss a side effect of Ozempic?

Not officially, but many patients report hair thinning after rapid weight loss.

 

Q4: Can I file a lawsuit for Ozempic side effects?

If you suffered serious or undisclosed side effects, you may be eligible for legal action.

 

Contact The Spencer Law Firm for Ozempic Side Effects Claims

If you or a loved one suffered serious complications after using Ozempic, The Spencer Law Firm is here to help.
📞 Call today for a free consultation and learn your legal options.