Novo Nordisk's Weight Loss Drugs Like Wegovy, Ozempic May Pose Serious Stomach Risks, Study Suggests

A recent study published in JAMA has raised concerns about the potential risks associated with popular weight loss and diabetes drugs like Novo Nordisk A/S's NVO, Wegovy (semaglutide), Ozempic (semaglutide), and Saxenda (liraglutide). 

The study suggests that these drugs, known as GLP-1s, may be linked to three rare but severe stomach conditions in non-diabetic patients.

Also Read: Novo Nordisk's Wegovy Success Uplifts Denmark's Economy And Reputation, But With Caution.

Researchers found that the conditions identified in the study include stomach paralysis, bowel obstruction, and pancreatitis. Notably, stomach paralysis, which can lead to symptoms like persistent vomiting, is not currently listed as a warning on the drug labels.

The study focused on semaglutide, the active ingredient in Wegovy and Ozempic, and compared it to another weight loss treatment called bupropion-naltrexone. 

Based on health insurance claim records for around 16 million U.S. patients, the study findings revealed that GLP-1s were associated with a significantly higher risk of pancreatitis, bowel obstruction, and stomach paralysis than bupropion-naltrexone.

The researchers specifically examined individuals with a recent history of obesity who had been prescribed semaglutide or liraglutide between 2006 and 2020. They deliberately excluded individuals with diabetes or those prescribed any other diabetes medication.

The FDA has updated the labeling for Novo Nordisk's Ozempic to include warnings about reported blocked intestines following its use. 

Price Action: NVO shares are up 0.38% at $90.32 during the premarket session on the last check Friday.