Can Ozempic Cause Blood Clots? [2024 Update]

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A 2021 study has linked Ozempic, a semaglutide used to lower blood sugar levels and promote weight loss in individuals with Type 2 diabetes and obesity, to an increased risk of blood clots, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolisms. The study published in the Endocrine Journal found that Ozempic patients had a 266% increased risk of DVT. Today, individuals who have been diagnosed with blood clots, DVTs, and pulmonary embolisms, after using Ozempic have filed lawsuits, taking legal action against the manufacturer.

About Ozempic and Blood Clots:

Ozempic and Blood Clots

Ozempic is a once-weekly glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist used to manage type 2 diabetes and promote weight loss in adults. It works by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone to increase insulin secretion, decrease glucagon release, and slow gastric emptying.

Common side effects of Ozempic include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Serious side effects of the prescription medication include pancreatitis, thyroid tumors, gastroparesis (stomach paralysis), and ileus (intestinal blockage). In addition to these health concerns, a meta-analysis of 21 randomized trials has linked taking Ozempic to a significantly increased risk of blood clots.

How Ozempic may increase the risk for blood clot formation:

• Gastrointestinal issues: It is well known that Ozempic may cause serious gastrointestinal problems. The diarrhea and dehydration caused by the drug can lead to increased blood viscosity, increasing the risk for the formation of blood clots. 
• Weight loss: Ozempic’s tendency to cause rapid or significant weight loss in patients can sometimes lead to physiological changes that might increase the risk of clots. 
• Blood vessel impact: Semaglutide’s effect on blood vessels may contribute to the formation of blood clots, although the exact mechanisms are not fully understood.
• Changes in blood flow: Medications that alter metabolic processes and blood flow could directly or indirectly affect clotting mechanisms.

Semaglutide Study Finds Link to Blood Clots

A 2021 study published in the Endocrine Journal (Volume 68, Issue 6, pages 739-742) found that type 2 diabetes patients using semaglutide were at a 266% increased risk of deep vein thrombosis. The comprehensive study conducted by Dao-Gen Yin, Liang-Liang Ding, Hai-Rong Zhou, Mei Qiu, and Xue-Yan Duan involved a meta-analysis of 21 trials with 12,260 semaglutide users and 14,176 comparators. 

The meta-analysis used both random-effects and fixed-effects models to evaluate pooled risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Subgroup analysis was conducted according to drug dosages, routes of administration, and types of comparators. The purpose of the study was to assess the risk of semaglutide leading to various serious adverse events (SAEs) in patients with type 2 diabetes. Of the 21 trials included in the analysis, 10 were PIONEER trials for oral semaglutide, and 11 were SUSTAIN trials for subcutaneous semaglutide. 

While the main findings indicate that semaglutide reduced total SAEs by 8% and atrial fibrillation by 31%, it also may increase a person’s risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) by 266% (RR 3.66, 95% CI 1.09–12.25; I2 = 0) and diarrhea by 166%. The study found no significant effects on 248 other kinds of SAEs. While the mechanism remains unknown, there may be a potential link between DVT risk and an increased incidence of diarrhea and dehydration associated with the use of semaglutide. These side effects may lead to increased blood viscosity. Overall the study showed that semaglutide generally has a good safety profile but requires cautious use in patients susceptible to DVT and gastrointestinal issues.

How Can Ozempic Cause Blood Clots?

While current studies, such as the one published in 2021 in the Endocrine Journal, indicate that Ozempic patients may be at a higher risk of blood clots, more research is needed to definitively determine causality. 

Potential mechanisms of clot formation related to Ozempic (semaglutide) use:

• Gastrointestinal effects: Known side effects of Ozempic, such as diarrhea and vomiting, can lead to dehydration which raises blood viscosity and clot risk. 
• Alterations in coagulation factors: Ozempic may affect the balance of pro-coagulant and anticoagulant factors, promoting clot formation.
• Inflammatory responses: Inflammation caused by Ozempic can make blood vessels more susceptible to clotting.
• Rapid weight loss: Significant or rapid weight loss may lead to physiological changes that increase the risk of clotting.
• Impact on blood vessels: Effects on blood vessel function and tone can contribute to clot formation.
• Changes in blood flow: Alterations in blood flow dynamics due to Ozempic can affect clotting mechanisms.

Gastrointestinal Effects on Blood Clots

Research shows that some gastrointestinal issues can increase a person’s risk of developing blood clots. For example, the North American Thrombosis Forum found that patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) may have a “3-4 times higher risk of developing thrombosis (blood clots) than people without IBD.” 

It is well-documented that Ozempic can cause significant gastrointestinal side effects, from diarrhea to gastroparesis. These gastrointestinal effects may increase blood viscosity and increase the risk of clot formation.

How Ozempic-induced gastrointestinal effects may be linked to an increased risk of blood clots:

• Increased Blood Viscosity: Diarrhea from Ozempic can lead to dehydration, increasing blood viscosity and the likelihood of clot formation.
• Electrolyte Imbalance: Persistent diarrhea can cause electrolyte imbalances, disrupting normal blood and cardiovascular functions, potentially increasing clot risk.
• Hemoconcentration: Dehydration reduces plasma volume, leading to hemoconcentration with higher concentrations of red blood cells and clotting factors, accelerating clotting processes.
• Venous Stasis: Increased blood viscosity from dehydration slows blood flow, especially in the leg veins, increasing the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) due to venous stasis.
• Inflammation: Gastrointestinal distress triggers an inflammatory response, activating the coagulation system and increasing the risk of clot formation. Chronic inflammation can damage blood vessel walls, promoting clot development.

Changes in Coagulation Factors

Semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic, may indirectly influence coagulation pathways. The drug may cause changes in metabolic processes and hormonal levels that can activate coagulation pathways, increasing the tendency for blood to clot. GLP-1 receptor agonists, like semaglutide, can also affect platelet function. Enhanced platelet aggregation can increase the risk of thrombus formation within blood vessels.

In addition to these issues, Ozempic-induced dehydration and metabolic changes from the gastrointestinal side effects can elevate fibrinogen levels. Fibrinogen is a key protein in blood clot formation. Higher levels of the glycoprotein promote fibrin formation, increasing a person’s clot risk. Dehydration can also increase prothrombotic factors such as thrombin. Thrombin plays a central role in converting fibrinogen to fibrin in the clotting process. Finally, Gastrointestinal distress and dehydration may reduce natural anticoagulants like antithrombin III. Antithrombin III inhibits thrombin and other enzymes in the coagulation process; its reduction can lead to a higher propensity for clot formation.

Gastrointestinal issues can also trigger an inflammatory response. Inflammatory cytokines can enhance tissue factor expression, initiating the coagulation cascade and increasing thrombin generation, leading to higher clotting potential.

Rapid Weight Loss and Blood Clotting

Semaglutide revolutionized the industry as patients saw unprecedented weight loss with use. However, the rapid weight loss Ozempic patients experience can lead to significant changes in lipid metabolism, affecting the balance of pro-coagulant and anticoagulant factors and potentially increasing the risk of clot formation.

Additionally, loss of muscle mass during rapid weight loss can reduce the efficiency of muscle pumps that help return blood from the extremities to the heart, leading to blood stasis, particularly in the legs, which is a risk factor for deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The quit weight loss may also result in dehydration and hemoconcentration, where the blood becomes thicker due to an increased concentration of red blood cells and other components, slowing blood flow and increasing the likelihood of clotting.

Rapid weight loss through extreme dieting or inadequate nutrient intake can lead to deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals (e.g., B6, B12, folic acid), affecting homocysteine levels and increasing the risk of thrombosis. It may also cause hormonal imbalances, including elevated cortisol levels, which promote a pro-thrombotic state by increasing clotting factor production and reducing fibrinolysis (clot breakdown). 

Periods of reduced physical activity due to fatigue or restrictive diets during rapid weight loss can lead to prolonged immobility, increasing the risk of venous stasis and clot formation. It can stress the vascular endothelium (inner lining of blood vessels), leading to dysfunction. 

Dysfunctional endothelial cells are less effective at producing anticoagulant substances like nitric oxide and prostacyclin, increasing thrombosis risk. Rapid weight loss can provoke an inflammatory response, increasing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. These cytokines enhance tissue factor expression and other pro-coagulant factors on endothelial cells, promoting clot formation.

Ozempic Blood Clot Side Effects

Ozempic may have serious blood clot side effects, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). While the exact mechanism is unknown, it is believed that semaglutide’s tendency to cause serious gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea and dehydration may increase a person’s risk for the development of these clots. Individuals who are taking Ozempic are encouraged to keep track of any adverse health concerns and seek immediate medical attention for prompt diagnosis and treatment. 

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition defined by clotting in the deep veins, usually in the legs. The primary risk to patients who develop DVT is that the blood clot will travel to the lungs, causing a potentially life-threatening pulmonary embolism (PE). 

Symptoms of deep vein thrombosis:

• Swelling in one leg
• Pain or tenderness in the leg
• Warm skin
• Red or discolored skin on the leg

Extensive clinical trials for Ozempic have shown a significant increase in DVT incidents among users compared to those using other diabetes medications or placebos.

Risk Factors for DVT:

• Immobility: Prolonged sitting or bed rest.
• Medical Conditions: Heart disease, cancer, and other conditions.
• Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, obesity, and dehydration.
• Medications: Some medications, like Ozempic, can increase clotting risk.

Individuals who are taking Ozempic are encouraged to engage in regular monitoring from healthcare providers to help manage diabetes and overall health. It is important to remain vigilant about recognizing DVT symptoms and seek prompt medical attention if any are detected. You can reduce your risk for DVT by engaging in regular exercise to improve circulation, maintaining a balanced diet, and staying hydrated to prevent blood from thickening. 

Pulmonary Embolism (PE)

A pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when a blood clot from a deep vein travels to the lungs, stopping blood flow to an artery. It may be life-threatening and requires emergency medical treatment. 

Symptoms of pulmonary embolism:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Fainting
• A rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Lightheadedness
• Coughing up blood

Individuals taking Ozempic should be monitored regularly by a healthcare provider to ensure any symptoms are caught early. Gastrointestinal issues that are common with semaglutide may increase a person’s risk of developing deep vein thrombosis. Pulmonary embolisms are most frequently caused by clots that originate in a deep vein.

Ozempic Blood Clot Locations

Research indicates that the active ingredient in Ozempic, semaglutide, may increase a person’s risk of developing blood clots. The most common places where individuals taking Ozempic may develop blood clots are in the deep veins in the legs, leading to deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and the lungs, resulting in pulmonary embolism (PE).

Blood Clots in the Legs – Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, is a serious condition that involves the formation of blood clots in the deep veins of the legs. Symptoms of DVT include pain and swelling in the leg, warm skin, and red or discolored skin in the affected leg. Complications of DVT may be life-threatening if the clot travels to the lungs and causes a pulmonary embolism. 

Risk factors include immobility, certain medical conditions, dehydration, smoking, obesity, and some medications. Individuals taking Ozempic should be monitored for DVT-related symptoms and seek medical treatment immediately if they appear. 

Blood Clots in the Lungs – Pulmonary Embolism (PE)

A pulmonary embolism generally occurs when a blood clot from a deep vein travels to the lungs, causing a blockage in a pulmonary artery. Symptoms include sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, rapid heart rate, lightheadedness, and coughing up blood. A pulmonary embolism is life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. Ozempic patients are encouraged to keep regular checkups to monitor for symptoms.

How to Prevent Blood Clots While Taking Ozempic

Individuals taking Ozempic can take several steps to prevent blood clots, including exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, staying hydrated, and quitting smoking. It is important to seek medical attention for any clot-related symptoms. 

Tips for preventing blood clots while taking Ozempic:

• Engage in Daily Exercise: Most days of the week, engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, such as walking, swimming, or cycling.
• Avoid Prolonged Sitting: Take breaks to stand, stretch, and walk around if you have a sedentary job or during long trips.
• Eat a Balanced Diet: Consume a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
• Monitor Weight: Track your weight and, if necessary, work with your healthcare provider to develop a weight management plan.
• Drink Water: Aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day, more if you are active or in a hot climate, and reduce your intake of caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate you.
• Wear Compression Stockings: Consider wearing compression stockings during long flights, car rides, inactivity, or periods of bed rest.
• Keep Regular Check-Ups: Attend all scheduled appointments to monitor your health and the effectiveness of your treatment, and notify your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects.
• Quit Smoking: Seek support to quit smoking, such as counseling, medications, or nicotine replacement therapy.
• Share Personal and Family History: Share any history of blood clotting disorders or previous blood clots with your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider can offer specific advice based on your individual risk profile.

Ozempic patients are encouraged to stay vigilant for symptoms such as swelling, pain, redness in the legs, sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, and unexplained coughing. Individuals can reduce the risks of clotting by keeping regular appointments with their healthcare providers to manage conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and cholesterol, as well as taking all medications as prescribed and making lifestyle changes as recommended by their healthcare provider.

Have You Experienced Blood Clots While Taking Ozempic?

Have you experienced blood clot symptoms such as pain and swelling in the leg, shortness of breath, a rapid or irregular heartbeat, or coughing up blood while taking Ozempic? You may be able to take legal action against the manufacturer of the drug. Immediate medical attention is strongly recommended if any blood clot symptoms are detected. Ozempic patients are also encouraged to contact King Law to explore potential legal options. 

Contact an Ozempic Blood Clot Lawyer

At King Law, our attorneys are well-versed in handling Ozempic lawsuits, including those based on blood clots. Ozempic patients who suffer blood clots or related conditions such as deep vein thrombosis or a pulmonary embolism are strongly encouraged to contact King Law to schedule a free consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If you have questions related to Ozempic and blood clots, read the FAQs below.