Can Ozempic cause stomach paralysis or bowel injury?

Research indicates a possible link between Ozempic (semaglutide) and stomach paralysis (gastroparesis) or bowel injury, but further studies are needed to fully understand the risk. As a GLP-1 receptor agonist, Ozempic slows stomach emptying to help regulate blood sugar, which may lead to gastrointestinal side effects.

People with diabetes already face an increased risk of gastroparesis and bowel injury, as diabetes is the most common cause of delayed stomach emptying. Taking Ozempic may further elevate this risk. Additionally, reports of severe stomach-related side effects, including over 100 lawsuits citing stomach paralysis and intestinal blockage, have emerged since the drug's release.

What is Ozempic?

Ozempic is a once-weekly injectable medication used alongside diet and exercise to manage type 2 diabetes. It is also FDA-approved to reduce the risk of major heart-related events and worsening kidney disease in adults with type 2 diabetes. This medication belongs to the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist drug class.

Can Ozempic Cause Bowel Injury?

Bowel injury is a potential risk with Ozempic. Increased GLP-1 activity can slow gastrointestinal movement, leading to constipation and, in severe cases, intestinal blockage (ileus).

In 2023, the FDA updated Ozempic’s label to include ileus under postmarketing side effects. This decision was based on voluntary reports submitted to the FDA’s Adverse Events Reporting System. Because these reports are voluntary, the exact cause of these side effects remains unclear.

Symptoms of Intestinal Blockage

If you experience any of the following symptoms of intestinal blockage while taking Ozempic, contact your healthcare provider immediately to rule out a blockage or bowel injury:

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

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Can Ozempic Cause Stomach Paralysis?

Yes, Ozempic may contribute to stomach paralysis, though the term "paralysis" does not mean the stomach is permanently inactive. Instead, the medication slows stomach emptying, and some individuals may be more affected than others.

A study analyzing FDA safety data from 2018 to early 2022 identified 48 cases of impaired stomach emptying (26 serious and 22 non-serious) among 5,442 reports of semaglutide-related gastrointestinal issues.

Symptoms of stomach paralysis include:

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

Gastrointestinal side effects are common with Ozempic. If you experience these symptoms, consult your healthcare provider.

How Does Ozempic Affect the Nervous and Digestive System?

Ozempic influences digestion by activating GLP-1 receptors, which slow stomach emptying and intestinal movement. It affects the vagus nerve, a key component of the parasympathetic nervous system that regulates digestion.

People with diabetes are at higher risk for intestinal blockage due to diabetic neuropathy, a type of nerve damage caused by high blood sugar levels. This damage can impair digestive function, compounding the effects of Ozempic.

Key Takeaways

While Ozempic can cause significant gastrointestinal side effects, the benefits may outweigh the risks for many patients. Always discuss potential side effects with your healthcare provider, who can monitor for complications and provide guidance on managing symptoms.

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.