The actions in this multidistrict litigation ("MDL") (MDL No. 3163) involve injuries stemming from the use of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists ("GLP-1 RAs"), which are medicines prescribed for, among other things, the treatment of type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management. This class of medications includes Ozempic, Wegovy, and Saxenda, which are manufactured by the Novo Nordisk Defendants, and Trulicity, which is manufactured by Eli Lilly and Company.

     The United States Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (the "JPML") found that the actions in this MDL "involve common questions of fact, and that centralization in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania will serve the convenience of the parties and witnesses and promote the just and efficient conduct of this litigation." In so finding, the JPML noted that "[t]he actions involve common questions of fact concerning the development, manufacture, testing, regulatory history, promotion, and labeling of the [GLP-1 RAs], as well as their capacity to cause [non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy ("NAION")]." The actions also "bring substantially identical claims for failure to warn, design defect, and breach of warranties."

     This is the second MDL involving personal injury actions stemming from the use of GLP-1 RAs. The related MDL (MDL No. 3094) is also pending before Judge Marston. While the actions in this MDL allege that Plaintiffs suffer from NAION, the actions in MDL No. 3094 allege gastrointestinal injuries.