Can Ozempic cause stomach paralysis or bowel injury?

Research suggests a possible link between Ozempic (semaglutide) and stomach paralysis and bowel injury, but more studies are needed to fully understand the extent of the risk. GLP-1 agonists such as Ozempic work to achieve better blood sugar levels in part by slowing down stomach emptying. However, this could result in many gastrointestinal side effects.

People living with diabetes are at a higher risk for stomach paralysis, also known as gastroparesis or delayed stomach emptying, and bowel injury. In fact, diabetes is the most common cause of stomach paralysis. Taking Ozempic may increase this risk further.

Many reports of stomach paralysis and intestinal problems have been filed after Ozempic came onto the market. Additionally, over 100 lawsuits claim Ozempic can cause serious stomach side effects such as stomach paralysis and intestinal blockage.

What is Ozempic?

Ozempic is a once-weekly injectable medication used in addition to diet and exercise to treat adults with type 2 diabetes. It is also FDA approved to lower the risk of major heart-related events in adults with type 2 diabetes and heart disease. It belongs to the drug class called glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists.

Can you get bowel injury from Ozempic?

Bowel injury from Ozempic is possible. It is thought that higher GLP-1 activity can reduce gastrointestinal movement. This can lead to constipation, and more serious problems such as blockage in the intestine.

In 2023, the FDA updated Ozempic’s label to include ileus (lack of movement in the intestines) under postmarketing side effects. This update was based on reports to the FDA’s Adverse Events Reporting System. These reports are voluntary, so it is hard to know if the reported side effects are linked to any particular medication or due to another cause.

Studies suggest Ozempic might raise the risk for intestinal blockage. It increases GLP-1 activity and slows down intestinal movements. As a result, food and waste stop moving through your intestine properly. This can lead to a blockage in the intestines, which can cut off the blood supply and cause serious damage to your bowel. It can be months or years before you experience this side effect from Ozempic, and not everyone will get a bowel injury from taking it.

Symptoms of intestinal blockage include:

• Stomach cramps or pain
• Poor appetite
• Constipation
• Vomiting
• Bloating

Tell your healthcare provider if you experience any of the symptoms listed above while taking Ozempic. They can make sure you don’t have a blockage in your intestine or any bowel injury.

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Can you get stomach paralysis from Ozempic?

Yes, you can get stomach paralysis from taking Ozempic. This does not mean your stomach is actually paralyzed. Part of the way Ozempic works is by slowing down stomach emptying. However, some people might experience this more strongly than others.

In one study, researchers reviewed FDA safety data on semaglutide from 2018 to the end of the first quarter in 2022. They identified 26 serious cases and 22 non-serious cases of impaired stomach emptying. This was out of 5,442 cases of semaglutide-related stomach side effects.

Symptoms of stomach paralysis include:

• Stomach discomfort
• Bloating
• Feeling full too early after starting a meal
• Nausea

Gastrointestinal side effects from Ozempic are common. However, you should contact your healthcare provider if you experience any of the side effects listed above.

How does Ozempic affect the nervous and digestive system?

Ozempic is a GLP-1 agonist. GLP-1, a hormone in the body that affects blood sugar and digestion, is known to play a role in stomach emptying and movement. It slows down movement and secretions in the intestines by inhibiting the vagus nerve. The vagus nerve is part of the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for digestion. Studies suggest that Ozempic activates GLP-1 receptors on sensory nerve fibers called vagal afferents that send information from the gastrointestinal tract to the brain.

People with diabetes are at a higher risk of intestinal blockage, since many people who have diabetes are affected by diabetic neuropathy. Diabetic neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that can occur as a complication of diabetes. High blood sugar levels over time can injure nerves throughout the body, including those in the digestive tract.

While Ozempic can cause serious side effects, it is important to weigh the risks of taking this medication with the benefits for your health with your healthcare provider. They will monitor you closely for side effects during your treatment.

This is not all the information you need to know about Ozempic (semaglutide) for safe and effective use and does not take the place of your healthcare provider’s directions. Review the full product information and discuss this information and any questions you have with your doctor or other health care provider.