Ozempic, Wegovy may be linked to stomach paralysis and other digestive issues in large-scale study

Popular weight loss drugs like Wegovy and Ozempic could increase the risk of stomach paralysis as well as several other serious gastrointestinal conditions, according to a study published in JAMA.

The risk was linked to all semaglutides, a class of medications known as GLP-1 receptor agonists — including Ozempic (prescribed for diabetes management), Wegovy (prescribed for weight loss), Rybelsus (type 2 diabetes) and Saxenda (weight loss). The researchers could not assess whether the condition was temporary or permanent.  The number of people in the U.S. using GLP-1 agonists for either diabetes or obesity reportedly reached 40 million in 2022. "This is critical information for patients to know so they can seek timely medical attention and avoid serious consequences." "Given the wide use of these drugs, these adverse events, although rare, must be considered by patients thinking about using them for weight loss." Melissa Rudy is health editor and a member of the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital. 

Stomach paralysis, officially known as gastroparesis, prevents the nerves and muscles in the stomach from moving food into the small intestine, which keeps digestion from occurring, as described on Cleveland Clinic’s website.