Ozempic® Bowel & Intestinal Blockages

Yes, Ozempic can cause bowel obstruction. In 2022, a study found Ozempic use increased the risk of intestinal obstruction. 

In September 2023, following numerous consumer reports, the FDA updated the Ozempic label to include a warning about ileus. Ileus and intestinal obstruction are sometimes used interchangeably to describe the same condition. However, they refer to different issues.

• Intestinal obstruction: A physical blockage that prevents food or liquid from passing through the intestines.
• Ileus: A functional issue where the intestines fail to move contents because of a lack of muscular activity. No physical blockage causes the ileus, but this mechanical issue may lead to one.

Both conditions can cause similar symptoms but require different approaches to diagnosis and treatment.

How does Ozempic cause bowel obstructions?

Ozempic may cause bowel obstructions by slowing down how quickly food leaves the stomach. This “delayed gastric emptying” keeps people fuller longer, balances blood sugar and helps with weight loss. When the stomach and intestines do not empty properly, blockages can occur.

What is Ozempic?

Ozempic (generic name semaglutide) is part of a class of medications known as GLP-1 agonists. These medications can help lower blood sugar and promote weight loss. Ozempic is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat adults with type 2 diabetes. But it is not FDA-approved for weight loss.

Ozempic causes many side effects. These can include cyclical vomiting, nausea, gastroenteritis, gastroparesis, ileus and intestinal (bowel) obstruction. Many serious side effects are not disclosed on the Ozempic approval and warning label.

The following symptoms are associated with intestinal blockage:

• Abdominal swelling
• Constipation
• Cramping
• Inability to pass gas
• Loss of appetite
• Severe abdominal pain

Many patients taking Ozempic have been hospitalized after experiencing the symptoms of bowel obstruction. Those taking Ozempic who experience constipation and other symptoms of intestinal blockage for several days or more should see a doctor as soon as possible.

Intestinal blockages can have serious consequences

If nothing can pass through the intestine, surgery may be required to remove the blockage. If surgery is too risky, a metal stent might be inserted into the intestine to clear the obstruction. Once the patient’s condition stabilizes, they may still need surgery.

Without proper treatment, intestinal blockages can be dangerous and even deadly. ​​Semaglutide bowel obstructions can cause the intestine to tear, leaking bowel contents into other parts of the body. Intestinal blockage can lead to hospitalization and death. 

Patients who have experienced serious non-listed Ozempic side effects may be able to file a lawsuit. Ozempic lawsuits may help harmed patients receive compensation for their injuries.

Our medical attorneys have represented thousands of patients critically injured by prescription and over-the-counter drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy. We understand that as a patient or family member, your understanding of your or a loved one’s medications may be limited.

If you believe a medication made you ill or harmed you, our diabetes drug attorneys have the resources to thoroughly investigate and:

• Identify potentially harmful medications
• Examine how the medication harmed you
• Evaluate the manufacturer’s compliance with FDA regulations
• Determine whether the manufacturer warned you about potential side effects
• Acknowledge other issues that could affect your potential claim

Read more on our medical drug litigation experience.

Do not stop taking a prescribed medication without first consulting with your doctor. Discontinuing a prescribed medication without your doctor’s advice can result in injury or death. Ozempic and Wegovy are still approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.