Ozempic Litigation Update: Details from the April 18, 2024, Status Conference
Overview of the Status Conference
On April 18, 2024, Judge Gene E.K. Pratter presided over the second status conference concerning the Ozempic litigation. The conference shed light on the current scope and future expectations of the legal proceedings.
Current Case Count and Allegations
As of the date of the conference, the multidistrict litigation (MDL) encompassed 114 cases. The plaintiffs primarily allege injuries such as gastroparesis, ileus, and bowel obstruction.
Projections of Future Litigation
The parties involved anticipate the number of federal actions could escalate to as many as 10,000.
This increase is expected as the screening of medical records continues.
Furthermore, an increase in Ozempic cases is also anticipated following the selection of litigation leadership.
Discussion Points from the Conference
Anticipated Science Day
A significant focus of the discussion was the upcoming “Science Day” scheduled for June 14. During this event, presentations will address various critical aspects:
- Background information on Ozempic
- Diseases pertinent to the cases
- Drug labeling and regulatory history
- Overview of Ozempic injuries reported
- Relevant medical literature, epidemiology, and studies
Litigation Logistics
The parties are exploring the feasibility of electronic service of complaints to streamline proceedings. Additionally, there is ongoing discussion about the management and production of electronically stored information (ESI), along with protocols for privilege logs.
Judicial Guidance
Judge Pratter indicated that a decision regarding the leadership in the litigation is expected by early the last week of April, guiding the next stages of the multidistrict litigation.
