Ozempic (semaglutide), a medication primarily for type 2 diabetes and sometimes used off-label for weight loss, has several reported side effects, some of which can be serious. Common side effects include gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. However, more severe effects have also been documented, including pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, and kidney complications. There have been rare cases of more significant gastrointestinal issues such as ileus (intestinal obstruction) and gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying), which led the FDA to update Ozempic’s labeling.  These conditions, if untreated, could potentially cause life-threatening complications, such as tissue death or severe infection in the intestines.

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Thyroid C-cell tumors were observed in animal studies with semaglutide, although it's unclear if these occur in humans. Reports of death linked to Ozempic, such as those related to ileus, are extremely rare, and while adverse reactions are noted, a direct causal link to fatalities is challenging to establish due to voluntary reporting limitations.

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Psychiatric side effects have been noted too, including increased anxiety and depression, though these are not common. Lawsuits have emerged over gastrointestinal distress claims, with some individuals reporting severe symptoms like persistent vomiting, burning pain, and repeated hospitalizations.

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If considering Ozempic, it is critical to discuss potential side effects and necessary monitoring with a healthcare provider, especially for those with existing GI, kidney, or thyroid conditions. For further information, consult detailed safety updates from sources like Healthline and Drugs.com.