Ozempic is a weight loss drug that has been linked to stomach paralysis, also known as gastroparesis, and other rare but serious gastrointestinal issues. Gastroparesis is a condition that slows or completely stops the movement of food from the stomach to the intestine and can cause symptoms like persistent vomiting. GLP-1 agonists, which include Ozempic and other weight loss drugs, work by slowing digestion to suppress a persons appetite but can cause problems if that process slows down too much.

Patients who take Ozempic or other GLP-1 drugs may be at an increased risk of severe stomach problems, including gastroparesis. In August 2023, Novo Nordisk was sued over claims that Ozempic caused a womans stomach paralysis. The European Medicines Agency announced in July 2023 that it would investigate reports of suicidal thoughts and self-harm in people using semaglutide and liraglutide medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Saxenda.

It is important for patients and clinicians to be aware of the severe side effects of Ozempic and other GLP-1 drugs, including gastroparesis and its consequences. While severe stomach paralysis is still a rare side effect, it is important to note that it can result from taking GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic.