What Are Ozempic and Wegovy?
Active Ingredient: Semaglutide
Both Ozempic and Wegovy contain the same active ingredient: semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. This medication mimics the natural GLP-1 hormone that helps regulate blood sugar and appetite.
Ozempic (Semaglutide)
Approved Use: Type 2 diabetes management
Dosage: 0.5mg, 1mg, or 2mg weekly injection
Manufacturer: Novo Nordisk
Wegovy (Semaglutide)
Approved Use: Chronic weight management
Dosage: 0.25mg to 2.4mg weekly injection
Manufacturer: Novo Nordisk
Key Differences
While both medications contain the same active ingredient, they are approved for different uses and have different dosing schedules. Ozempic is specifically approved for diabetes management, while Wegovy is approved for weight loss in adults with obesity or overweight with weight-related medical problems.
How GLP-1 Medications Work
GLP-1 Receptor Agonism
Semaglutide works by binding to GLP-1 receptors throughout the body, particularly in the pancreas, brain, and gastrointestinal tract. This action produces several effects:
- Pancreatic Effects: Stimulates insulin secretion and reduces glucagon production, helping lower blood sugar
- Brain Effects: Acts on appetite centers to reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness
- Gastric Effects: Slows down stomach emptying (gastroparesis), which can cause digestive issues
- Cardiovascular Effects: May have protective effects on the heart and blood vessels
Weight Loss Mechanism
The weight loss effects of semaglutide are primarily achieved through:
- Appetite Suppression: Reduces hunger signals in the brain
- Delayed Gastric Emptying: Food stays in the stomach longer, creating prolonged fullness
- Reduced Food Intake: Patients naturally eat less due to decreased appetite
- Metabolic Changes: May affect how the body processes and stores fat
FDA Approval Timeline
Ozempic Approved for Diabetes
The FDA approved Ozempic (semaglutide) injection for the treatment of type 2 diabetes in adults, to be used alongside diet and exercise to improve glycemic control.
Wegovy Approved for Weight Loss
The FDA approved Wegovy (semaglutide) injection for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight with at least one weight-related condition.
Wegovy Approved for Adolescents
The FDA expanded Wegovy's approval to include adolescents aged 12 and older with obesity, making it the first weight loss medication approved for this age group.
Cardiovascular Benefits Approved
The FDA approved Wegovy for reducing the risk of major cardiovascular events in adults with cardiovascular disease and either obesity or overweight.
Usage and Market Impact
Prescription Trends
The popularity of GLP-1 medications has exploded in recent years, driven by their effectiveness for weight loss and celebrity endorsements:
Prescription Volume
• Over 9 million prescriptions for Ozempic and Wegovy in 2023
• 40% increase in prescriptions from 2022 to 2023
• Estimated 1.7% of U.S. adults have used GLP-1 medications
Market Value
• Global GLP-1 market valued at $15.5 billion in 2023
• Expected to reach $35 billion by 2030
• Novo Nordisk's market cap exceeded $500 billion in 2024
Off-Label Use Concerns
Despite being approved for specific conditions, these medications are often prescribed off-label:
- Cosmetic Weight Loss: Many prescriptions are for people without obesity or diabetes
- Social Media Influence: Celebrity endorsements and TikTok trends driving demand
- Supply Shortages: Off-label use contributing to medication shortages for diabetic patients
- Compounded Versions: Unregulated compounded semaglutide causing safety concerns
Known Side Effects and Complications
⚠️ Serious Side Effects Warning
While GLP-1 medications can be effective, they have been linked to serious and potentially life-threatening side effects. If you experience any concerning symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
Common Side Effects
- Nausea and Vomiting: Most common side effect, affecting up to 70% of users
- Diarrhea: Occurs in approximately 30% of patients
- Constipation: Affects about 25% of users
- Abdominal Pain: Reported by many patients
- Fatigue: Common during initial weeks of treatment
- Dizziness: May occur, especially when standing up
Serious Complications
Recent studies and patient reports have identified several serious complications:
Gastrointestinal Issues
• Gastroparesis (stomach paralysis)
• Bowel obstruction
• Intestinal tissue death
• Pancreatitis
Other Serious Effects
• Kidney problems
• Optic nerve damage
• Mental health issues
• Gallbladder disease
Emergency Department Visits
A recent study published in April 2025 revealed alarming statistics:
- 24,499 emergency department visits related to semaglutide in just two years
- 10+ deaths linked to compounded semaglutide use
- 100+ hospitalizations reported to FDA
- Cases continue to increase as usage grows
Legal Developments and Lawsuits
Current Litigation Status
As of June 2025, there are 1,882 active lawsuits consolidated in the GLP-1 MDL (Multidistrict Litigation) in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. These cases primarily involve:
- Gastroparesis claims: Stomach paralysis requiring surgical intervention
- Vision loss claims: NAION (nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy)
- Failure to warn: Allegations that manufacturers knew of risks but didn't properly warn patients
- Misleading advertising: Claims about safety and effectiveness
Notable Cases
Juanita Gantt Case
A 62-year-old patient was hospitalized after taking Wegovy and Ozempic. Parts of her large intestine died and needed to be removed. She now lives with a permanent ileostomy bag.
Optic Nerve Damage Lawsuit
A plaintiff from Illinois sued Novo Nordisk, claiming that Wegovy caused debilitating optic nerve damage, expanding litigation beyond gastrointestinal claims.
FDA Monitoring
The FDA continues to monitor adverse event reports and has issued several warnings about GLP-1 medications, including concerns about compounded versions and the need for proper patient monitoring.
Get Legal Help
Free Case Evaluation
If you or a loved one has experienced serious side effects from Ozempic, Wegovy, or other GLP-1 medications, you may be entitled to compensation. Our legal team offers:
- Free Consultation: No upfront costs to discuss your case
- Contingency Fees: You only pay if we win your case
- Nationwide Representation: We serve clients across the United States
- Experienced Attorneys: Specialized in pharmaceutical litigation
Email us today at info@glp1lawsuits.com for a free, confidential consultation.