The potential connection between specific Novo Nordisk medications and suicidal tendencies is under investigation by the EMA.
A committee from the EMA is delving into the possibility that GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Saxenda (all manufactured by Novo Nordisk) have associations with heightened risks of suicide, suicidal tendencies and self-inflicting harm thoughts.
While in the European Union, none of these drugs mention suicidal behaviors as a side effect, the stance in the U.S differs. The FDA has noted a suicide occurrence during Saxenda’s clinical trial and suggests observing patients for signs of depression and suicidal tendencies. Meanwhile, Wegovy carries a caution about potential “increases in heart rate and tendencies for suicidal behaviors or thoughts.” Ozempic has a similar active pharmaceutical ingredient but in a reduced dosage.
The analysis by EMA is projected to wrap up by November 2023, examining approximately 150 instances of self-harm and suicidal tendencies connected to these medications.
Several media platforms have highlighted this safety evaluation, with some reporting that the FDA has also been alerted about roughly 60 cases of suicidal tendencies in individuals using Ozempic or Wegovy. Novo Nordisk has commented that their post-market surveillance doesn’t demonstrate any direct “cause-effect relationship” between these medications and self-inflicting harm.
Many FDA-approved medications, like antidepressants, come with alerts about potential side effects, including depression and suicidal tendencies, especially in the younger demographic. Some of these warnings are as stark as the FDA’s black box warning. A notable instance is the examination of suicidal tendencies in adults consuming paroxetine (Paxil/Seroxat), which unveiled a surge in suicide attempts in the medication group compared to a placebo – leading to significant legal action against GSK regarding the drug.
But how can a drug induce suicidal tendencies? This relationship remains ambiguous. While some may doubt that a medication’s effect on suicidal actions can be conclusively established, there’s undeniable evidence of some connections. A notable instance is Sanofi’s Acomplia, an anti-obesity drug, which, after European approval, was discontinued in 2008 because it nearly doubled the chances of psychiatric issues in patients when compared to a placebo. There are also articles detailing instances where medications seem to have played a role in suicide attempts. Theories suggest that certain drugs, like antidepressants, might amplify the energy in already suicidal individuals, prompting impulsive actions or aggravating existing depressive symptoms. There might also be instances where patients have unidentified conditions (like bipolar disorder) where specific drugs intensify psychotic symptoms. More details are available here.
Others have proposed that fluctuations in hormones might be influential. For instance, a study from the previous year discovered a connection between premenstrual dysphoric disorder – which impacts neurobiological reactions to hormone level changes – and suicidal tendencies. A connection between hormonal birth control and suicidal behavior has also been identified by some researchers. Hence, it’s plausible that certain medications might alter hormone concentrations.
The objective for pharmaceutical firms when creating new drugs is to enhance patients’ lives. Novo Nordisk’s medications, Ozempic and Wegovy, are prescribed for managing type 2 diabetes and weight, whereas Saxenda is for weight control. Given the rising global obesity rates, the significance of these drugs is undeniable. And even though determining medication-induced suicidal behaviors is challenging, it remains crucial to investigate it.
Who Can File A Lawsuit for Deaths Caused By These Drugs
When someone dies due to the side effects of a drug, legal action can be taken in the form of a wrongful death lawsuit. However, the specific individuals who can file such a lawsuit vary depending on the jurisdiction and its laws. Generally speaking, the following parties might be eligible to file a lawsuit for deaths allegedly caused by drugs:
- Immediate Family Members: In almost all jurisdictions, immediate family members like spouses, children (including adopted children), and parents of unmarried children can sue if their loved one dies due to a drug’s side effects.
- Life Partners and Financial Dependents: Some jurisdictions allow those who were financially dependent on the deceased or were in a domestic partnership with the deceased to file a wrongful death claim.
- Distant Family Members: Some states allow more distant family members, like brothers, sisters, and grandparents, to file wrongful death lawsuits. For instance, grandparents might be able to sue if they were raising a grandchild who died.
- The Estate: Through a representative, the estate of the deceased can sue for losses, including medical and funeral expenses, as well as other damages.
It’s crucial to note that this is a general overview, and the specific rights to file a lawsuit will vary based on local and national laws. Additionally, the time frame for filing a lawsuit, known as the statute of limitations, also varies by jurisdiction and can be influenced by various factors related to the case.
If someone believes that a loved one’s death was caused by a drug, it is crucial to consult with an attorney who specializes in wrongful death or product liability lawsuits. The attorney can provide advice tailored to the specifics of the case and the laws of the relevant jurisdiction.
CONTACT PARKER WAICHMAN LLP FOR A FREE CASE REVIEW
Parker Waichman LLP helps families recover monetary compensation for harm caused by dangerous products. For your free consultation, contact our national law firm today by using our live chat or calling 1-800-YOUR-LAWYER (1-800-968-7529).
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