Ozempic Side Effects: The Complete 2026 Review

Last updated: April 2026

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Quick Answer

Most Ozempic side effects are short-term, improving over time or after stopping the medication, with many seeing improvement after 3 months.
Potential long-term problems from Ozempic include pancreatitis, vision issues, kidney injury, and skin changes like "Ozempic face".
In a 2-year study, 3% of Ozempic injection users experienced diabetic retinopathy complications, compared to 1.8% taking a placebo.
A meta-analysis of about 35,000 patients found semaglutide is not linked to a higher risk of pancreatitis compared to placebo.

Ozempic (semaglutide) is a medication widely used for type 2 diabetes and increasingly for weight loss. While it offers significant benefits, understanding its side effects, both common and rare, is crucial for anyone considering or currently using the drug. Most of the side effects people experience are mild to moderate, often showing up when they first start the medication or when the dose goes up. These temporary issues usually get better as the body adjusts, with many individuals noticing an improvement in Ozempic side effects after about 3 months. However, it is important to know that Ozempic has the potential to cause certain long-term problems. These issues might last for months or even years after someone stops taking the medication. These long-term concerns can include serious conditions such as pancreatitis, vision problems, kidney injury, and visible skin changes, sometimes referred to as "Ozempic face" Ozempic long-term side effects. Clinical trials have looked at Ozempic for varying lengths, including 30 weeks for type 2 diabetes, 104 weeks for cardiovascular outcomes, and up to 41 months in adults with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease, providing a clearer picture of its effects over time.

What Are the Most Common Ozempic Side Effects?

The most common side effects associated with Ozempic are generally mild to moderate and tend to improve over time as your body adjusts to the medication. These frequently reported issues often arise when a person first begins taking Ozempic or after their dose has been increased. For most individuals, these initial side effects become less bothersome or even disappear within a few months, with many people reporting an improvement in their symptoms after roughly 3 months of use. This adjustment period is a normal part of starting any new medication that impacts the digestive system.

Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort

Gastrointestinal issues are by far the most commonly reported side effects when taking Ozempic. Users may experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and, if not managed properly, could potentially lead to more serious conditions like dehydration or malnutrition. The mechanism by which Ozempic works, which involves slowing down gastric emptying, contributes to these digestive complaints. When food stays in the stomach for longer, it can cause feelings of fullness, bloating, and discomfort.

Abdominal pain or discomfort is a frequent complaint. This pain can manifest as a general ache, cramping, or a feeling of unease in the stomach area. It is often described as mild to moderate and usually subsides as the body gets used to the drug. For some, the pain might be more pronounced, particularly after meals, due to the altered digestive process. Keeping track of when the pain occurs and what might trigger it can help manage this side effect.

Loss of appetite is another common experience. Ozempic helps regulate blood sugar and can also reduce appetite, which is one reason it has become popular for weight loss. While this effect can be beneficial for those aiming to shed extra pounds, it can also contribute to feelings of weakness or difficulty ensuring adequate nutritional intake if not managed carefully. The feeling of being full sooner and for longer can naturally lead to eating less, but it is important to ensure that the food consumed is nutrient-dense.

Indigestion or heartburn is also commonly reported. Indigestion can include symptoms like bloating, gas, and a feeling of fullness, even after eating only a small amount. Heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest, occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. These symptoms are often linked to the slower digestion caused by Ozempic. Managing these can involve eating smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding trigger foods, and staying upright after eating.

Injection Site Reactions

For those using injectable Ozempic, reactions at the injection site are a common, though usually minor, side effect. These reactions can include redness, swelling, or itching at the spot where the medication was injected. These symptoms are typically temporary and resolve on their own within a few days. They are not usually a cause for serious concern but can be uncomfortable. It is important to rotate injection sites to prevent irritation and to ensure proper injection technique. If the reactions are severe, persistent, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it is advisable to speak with a healthcare provider.

The Temporary Nature of Side Effects

Most of these common side effects are most likely to occur when you first start taking Ozempic or when your healthcare provider increases your dose. This is because your body needs time to adjust to the new medication and its effects on your digestive system and blood sugar regulation. As your body adapts, these symptoms generally become less frequent and less severe. For most people, this adjustment period means that Ozempic side effects after 3 months improve significantly. This temporary nature is a key characteristic of many medications, and Ozempic is no exception. Understanding that these initial discomforts are often fleeting can help individuals persevere through the early stages of treatment. It is always important to discuss any persistent or worsening side effects with your healthcare provider to ensure proper management and to rule out any more serious underlying issues. The goal is to find a balance where the benefits of the medication outweigh any temporary discomforts.

Can Ozempic Cause Long-Term Complications?

Yes, Ozempic has been linked to certain long-term side effects that may persist for months or even years after stopping the medication. While many of the immediate side effects are temporary and resolve with time, some potential issues can have a more lasting impact on your health. These include serious conditions such as pancreatitis, various vision problems, kidney injury, and noticeable changes in skin appearance, often referred to as "Ozempic face" or "Ozempic body." These long-term effects are rarer than the common, temporary gastrointestinal issues, but they highlight the importance of understanding the full spectrum of potential risks associated with the medication.

How Clinical Trials Inform Us

Clinical trials are crucial for understanding the safety and efficacy of medications over time. For Ozempic, these trials have provided valuable insights into its long-term effects. Ozempic was studied for 30 weeks specifically for type 2 diabetes, allowing researchers to observe its impact on blood sugar control and immediate side effects over several months. Further, the SUSTAIN trials investigated Ozempic for cardiovascular outcomes over an extended period of 104 weeks, which is roughly two years. This longer duration helps assess the medication's effects on heart health and the emergence of any slower-developing side effects. The longest study mentioned involved adults with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease, where Ozempic was studied for an impressive 41 months. This extensive research period provides a more comprehensive view of how Ozempic interacts with complex health conditions and its potential for very long-term complications. These prolonged studies are vital because some side effects do not appear immediately but rather develop after consistent exposure to the drug.

Persistent Health Concerns

Even after stopping Ozempic, some individuals may experience ongoing health problems. Pancreatitis, or inflammation of the pancreas, is one such serious condition that has been reported. Although it is considered rare, its potential for chronic issues means it is a significant concern. Vision problems, particularly the worsening of diabetic retinopathy, can have lasting impacts on eyesight. For individuals with diabetes, regular eye exams are already recommended, and using Ozempic necessitates even closer monitoring. Kidney injury is another serious long-term effect that requires careful attention. The kidneys play a vital role in filtering waste from the blood, and any damage can lead to chronic kidney disease. It is important for healthcare providers to monitor kidney function throughout treatment.

Changes in Appearance: "Ozempic Face" and "Ozempic Body"

Rapid weight loss, which Ozempic can facilitate, often leads to significant changes in body composition. While losing weight is a desired outcome for many, it can also result in cosmetic concerns such as "Ozempic face" or "Ozempic body." These terms describe the loss of volume in the face, which can make a person appear older or gaunt, and similar changes in body fat distribution that can affect overall body contour. These changes are primarily due to the loss of fat, which supports the skin and gives it a youthful appearance. When fat is lost quickly, the skin may not have enough time to adapt, leading to a less plump or saggy appearance. These physical changes, while not a direct medical complication of the drug itself, are an indirect consequence of its efficacy in promoting weight reduction and can have a psychological impact on individuals. Understanding these potential outcomes is part of a complete review of Ozempic's long-term effects. It is important to discuss these possibilities with a healthcare provider and consider strategies to mitigate such effects, such as maintaining good skin care and discussing potential cosmetic interventions if desired.

Is There a Link Between Ozempic and Pancreatitis?

Pancreatitis, which is the inflammation of the pancreas, has been reported by some individuals taking Ozempic during clinical trials, but it is considered a rare side effect. Despite these reports, it remains unclear whether Ozempic directly causes pancreatitis. The pancreas is a vital organ that produces enzymes for digestion and hormones like insulin, which regulates blood sugar. Inflammation of this organ can be very serious and painful.

Evidence from Clinical Studies

When we look at the data from clinical trials, the connection between Ozempic and pancreatitis is not straightforward. In one 2-year study involving injectable Ozempic, 8 people who were taking the medication experienced pancreatitis. In comparison, 10 people in the placebo group, who received no active medication, also experienced pancreatitis. This suggests that the incidence of pancreatitis was actually slightly lower in the Ozempic group than in the placebo group within this specific study, making a direct causal link difficult to establish from this data alone.

Further analysis from pooled studies involving oral semaglutide (known as Rybelsus or Ozempic tablet) showed a similar pattern. In these combined studies, 6 people reported pancreatitis. In the comparator group, which might have received a different treatment or a placebo, only 1 person reported pancreatitis. This particular comparison might suggest a higher incidence with oral semaglutide, but it's important to consider the total number of participants in these pooled studies and other contributing factors.

A more recent and comprehensive meta-analysis, which combined data from approximately 35,000 patients, offers a broader perspective. This large-scale analysis found that semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic, is not associated with a higher risk of pancreatitis when compared to a placebo. This significant finding provides stronger evidence against a direct causal link, suggesting that while pancreatitis cases may occur in individuals taking Ozempic, the medication itself might not be increasing the overall risk compared to not taking it.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Pancreatitis

Despite the emerging evidence suggesting no strong association, cases of pancreatitis continue to be reported by people taking Ozempic. This underscores the importance of being aware of the signs and symptoms of this condition. Pancreatitis can be a serious medical emergency, and early recognition is key to effective treatment.

The primary symptom of pancreatitis is severe upper stomach pain. This pain often starts suddenly and can be quite intense. It may also radiate, meaning it spreads from the upper stomach to the back. This radiating pain is a hallmark sign of pancreatic inflammation.

Along with severe pain, individuals with pancreatitis may experience nausea or vomiting. These digestive symptoms can be persistent and contribute to discomfort and dehydration. A rapid heartbeat is another symptom that can accompany pancreatitis, reflecting the body's stress response to the inflammation and pain.

Duration and Severity

Pancreatitis usually resolves within about 2 weeks with appropriate medical care. However, it can sometimes last longer, indicating a more severe or persistent form of the condition. In rare cases, pancreatitis can become chronic, meaning it persists over an extended period and can lead to long-term digestive problems and other complications. During clinical trials for Ozempic, there was one report of chronic pancreatitis in a patient taking the medication. This highlights that while acute pancreatitis is the more common form, the possibility of chronic pancreatitis, though rare, cannot be entirely dismissed. If you experience any of the symptoms of pancreatitis, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Your healthcare provider can conduct tests to diagnose the condition and recommend the appropriate course of treatment. The potential complications and long-term effects of Ozempic are important to consider Potential complications of Ozempic.

How Does Ozempic Affect Vision and Eye Health?

Ozempic may impact vision and eye health, particularly by worsening an existing eye condition called diabetic retinopathy. This effect is thought to occur when blood sugar levels improve very rapidly. For individuals with diabetes, diabetic retinopathy is a serious complication where damage occurs to the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. While improving blood sugar is generally beneficial, a sudden, drastic drop can sometimes trigger or worsen retinopathy in susceptible individuals.

Diabetic Retinopathy Complications

The link between Ozempic and diabetic retinopathy has been observed in clinical studies. In a 2-year study, 3% of individuals using Ozempic injections experienced complications related to diabetic retinopathy. In comparison, only 1.8% of those taking a placebo, which is a significant difference, experienced similar complications. This suggests that Ozempic users might have a higher risk of developing or worsening diabetic retinopathy. The rapid improvement in glycemic control, while overall good for long-term health, can sometimes destabilize existing retinopathy, leading to temporary worsening before potential long-term benefits are seen. This phenomenon is not unique to Ozempic but can be observed with any intense blood sugar lowering treatment.

Further data from pooled placebo and active-controlled trials, which looked at oral semaglutide (Rybelsus or Ozempic tablet), also showed a slight increase in reported diabetic retinopathy. In these trials, 4.2% of oral semaglutide users reported diabetic retinopathy, compared to 3.8% in the comparator group. Although this difference is smaller than that seen with the injectable form, it still indicates a potential trend. It is essential for individuals with diabetes, especially those with pre-existing retinopathy, to have regular eye examinations while on Ozempic. Early detection and management of any changes in eye health are crucial to prevent severe vision loss. For more details, see Ozempic long-term issues detailed.

Non-Arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION)

Beyond diabetic retinopathy, Ozempic might also cause another eye condition known as non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). NAION is a serious condition where the optic nerve, which transmits visual information from the eye to the brain, does not receive enough blood supply. This lack of blood flow can lead to sudden, painless vision loss in one eye. The exact mechanism by which Ozempic might contribute to NAION is not fully understood, but it is a potential concern that healthcare providers should be aware of.

Symptoms of NAION typically include sudden vision loss or blurring in part or all of one eye's visual field. This vision loss is usually not painful. If you experience any sudden changes in your vision, such as blurriness, loss of vision, or blind spots, it is critical to seek immediate medical attention. Prompt diagnosis and management are important to try and preserve as much vision as possible. While NAION is a rare side effect, its potential impact on vision makes it a significant consideration for individuals using Ozempic. Your doctor will weigh the benefits of Ozempic for blood sugar control and weight loss against these potential eye-related risks, especially if you have other risk factors for eye conditions. Regular monitoring of eye health is an important part of comprehensive care while on this medication.

What Are Other Serious Long-Term Side Effects?

Beyond the more commonly discussed issues like pancreatitis and vision problems, Ozempic can be associated with other rare but serious long-term side effects. These complications can affect various organ systems and highlight the importance of thorough medical evaluation and ongoing monitoring while on the medication. Understanding these potential issues is part of making an informed decision about treatment.

Gallbladder Disease and Complications

One of the rare but serious long-term effects linked to Ozempic is gallbladder disease and its complications. The gallbladder is a small organ that stores bile, which helps digest fats. Rapid weight loss, which Ozempic can induce, is a known risk factor for developing gallstones. These hard deposits can form in the gallbladder and cause blockages or inflammation, leading to conditions like cholelithiasis (gallstones) or cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder). Symptoms of gallbladder problems can include severe pain in the upper right abdomen, nausea, vomiting, fever, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). If gallstones cause a blockage or inflammation, surgical removal of the gallbladder may be necessary. While not directly caused by Ozempic's pharmacological action, the weight loss it promotes can increase this risk. It is important to be aware of these symptoms and report them to your healthcare provider immediately if they occur.

Kidney Damage and Function Loss

Ozempic has been associated with kidney damage and a loss of kidney function in some individuals. The kidneys are crucial for filtering waste products from the blood and maintaining fluid balance in the body. Any impairment in kidney function can lead to serious health problems, including chronic kidney disease. Symptoms of kidney issues can be subtle at first but may include changes in urination patterns, swelling in the legs or ankles, fatigue, and muscle cramps. However, it's a nuanced situation because Ozempic may also help protect heart and kidney health in people with type 2 diabetes or obesity. This means that while some individuals might experience kidney-related adverse effects, others, particularly those with pre-existing conditions, might see protective benefits. Regular monitoring of kidney function through blood tests is essential for anyone taking Ozempic, especially those with existing kidney problems or other risk factors. This allows healthcare providers to detect any changes early and adjust treatment as needed.

Gastrointestinal Complications: Stomach Paralysis and Intestinal Blockage

While common gastrointestinal issues like nausea and diarrhea are usually temporary, more severe and rare complications can occur, such as gastroparesis (stomach paralysis) or intestinal blockage. Gastroparesis is a condition where the stomach muscles work poorly or not at all, preventing food from moving into the small intestine. This can lead to symptoms like severe nausea, vomiting, bloating, feeling full after only a few bites, and weight loss. This condition is particularly concerning because Ozempic itself works by slowing gastric emptying, and in rare cases, this effect could become extreme or problematic. Intestinal blockage, or ileus, is another rare but serious complication where there is a partial or complete obstruction of the small or large intestine. This can cause severe abdominal pain, bloating, vomiting, and an inability to pass gas or stool. Both gastroparesis and intestinal blockage are medical emergencies that require immediate attention. These are considered rare events, but their severity means they are important to acknowledge when discussing the full range of potential long-term Ozempic issues.

Mental Health Effects

Although less directly characterized as a physical side effect, some long-term Ozempic issues also include mental health effects. While the exact link is still being explored, changes in body image due to rapid weight loss, or the stress of managing chronic conditions and medication side effects, can impact mental well-being. It is important for individuals to discuss any changes in mood, anxiety, or depression with their healthcare provider. Mental health is an integral part of overall health, and support should be sought if any concerns arise during treatment with Ozempic.

Are Thyroid Tumors a Risk with Ozempic?

Yes, there is a potential risk of thyroid tumors, including cancer, associated with medications like Ozempic, which contain semaglutide. This is a serious concern that has been highlighted in safety information for these drugs. The most important information regarding Wegovy, which also contains semaglutide, explicitly states that it may cause serious side effects, including possible thyroid tumors, and even cancer.

Evidence from Rodent Studies

The concern about thyroid tumors stems primarily from studies conducted in rodents. In these animal studies, Wegovy and other medicines that work in a similar way to Wegovy (meaning they are GLP-1 receptor agonists) were observed to cause thyroid tumors. This included a specific type of thyroid cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). While animal studies provide important safety signals, it is crucial to understand that findings in rodents do not always translate directly to humans. The physiological response to these medications can differ between species.

Unknown Risk in Humans

Despite the findings in animal studies, it is not yet known if Wegovy or Ozempic will cause thyroid tumors or medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) in people. This uncertainty means that while the risk is noted and taken seriously, a definitive causal link in humans has not been established. However, because of the potential for serious harm, regulatory bodies and manufacturers include strong warnings about this risk.

Important Safety Guidelines

Given the potential, specific precautions are advised. It is critical to tell your healthcare provider if you experience any symptoms that could indicate a thyroid problem. These symptoms might include getting a lump or swelling in your neck, experiencing hoarseness, having trouble swallowing, or noticing shortness of breath. These could be signs of thyroid cancer and warrant immediate medical evaluation.

Furthermore, there are clear contraindications for using semaglutide medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. You should not use Wegovy if you or any members of your family have ever had medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). This family history suggests a genetic predisposition that could increase your risk. Additionally, individuals with an endocrine system condition called Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) should also not use these medications. MEN 2 is a rare, inherited disorder that causes tumors in more than one of the body's endocrine glands, including the thyroid, and significantly increases the risk of MTC. These strict guidelines are in place to protect individuals who may be at a higher risk for developing thyroid tumors. Your healthcare provider will review your personal and family medical history carefully before prescribing Ozempic to ensure that these serious risks are appropriately managed.

How Does Ozempic Affect Kidney Health?

Ozempic's impact on kidney health is complex, presenting both potential risks and protective benefits, especially for specific patient populations. While it has been associated with instances of kidney damage and loss of function in some users, clinical data also suggests that Ozempic may offer protective effects for the kidneys, particularly in individuals living with type 2 diabetes or obesity. This dual nature requires careful consideration and monitoring by healthcare providers.

Potential for Kidney Injury

In some cases, Ozempic has been linked to kidney injury. The kidneys are vital organs responsible for filtering waste products from the blood, regulating blood pressure, and producing hormones. Any damage to these organs can impair their function, potentially leading to acute kidney injury or worsening existing chronic kidney disease. Symptoms of kidney problems can be subtle and might include changes in urination frequency or volume, swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet due to fluid retention, persistent fatigue, and muscle cramps. Severe gastrointestinal side effects, such as persistent vomiting or diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration, might indirectly contribute to kidney stress or injury. Dehydration reduces blood flow to the kidneys, potentially compromising their function. Therefore, managing common Ozempic side effects effectively is crucial to prevent secondary complications that could impact kidney health.

Protective Effects for Kidneys

Despite the potential for adverse events, research indicates that Ozempic, and semaglutide generally, can also offer protective benefits for kidney health. This is particularly relevant for individuals with type 2 diabetes and obesity, populations that are at a higher risk for developing kidney disease. For people with type 2 diabetes, Ozempic helps to lower blood sugar levels, which is a primary factor in preventing and slowing the progression of diabetic kidney disease. High blood sugar can damage the small blood vessels in the kidneys over time, leading to impaired function. By improving glycemic control, Ozempic can mitigate this damage.

Additionally, Ozempic's benefits extend to cardiovascular health, which is closely linked to kidney health. It has been shown to protect the heart in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Given that kidney disease and heart disease often coexist and exacerbate each other, improvements in cardiovascular outcomes can indirectly benefit kidney function. The SUSTAIN trials, for instance, studied Ozempic for 104 weeks for cardiovascular outcomes, providing insights into these broader systemic benefits. In adults with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease, Ozempic was studied for 41 months, indicating its potential role in managing these complex co-morbidities. This suggests that for certain high-risk groups, the overall benefits of Ozempic, including its effects on blood sugar, weight, and cardiovascular health, may outweigh the rare risks of kidney injury, potentially leading to a net protective effect on kidney function over the long term.

Importance of Monitoring Kidney Function

Given these contrasting effects, rigorous monitoring of kidney function is an essential part of treatment with Ozempic. Healthcare providers should regularly assess kidney markers through blood and urine tests, especially for patients with pre-existing kidney conditions or other risk factors for kidney disease. This includes monitoring estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and albuminuria. Early detection of any changes, whether positive or negative, allows for timely adjustments to the treatment plan, ensuring that the medication's benefits are maximized while potential risks are minimized. Patients should also be advised to stay well-hydrated, particularly if experiencing gastrointestinal side effects, to support kidney health. The decision to use Ozempic, especially in individuals with kidney concerns, should always involve a careful evaluation of the individual's overall health profile and a balanced assessment of potential risks and benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Ozempic side effects?

The most common side effects of Ozempic are generally mild to moderate and primarily involve gastrointestinal discomfort. These include abdominal pain, loss of appetite, indigestion or heartburn, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Injection site reactions, such as redness or swelling, can also occur. These symptoms are most likely to appear when you first start Ozempic or after a dose increase and typically improve as your body adjusts to the medication, with many people reporting improvement after 3 months.

Can Ozempic cause long-term problems after stopping it?

Yes, Ozempic has the potential to cause certain long-term problems that may last months or even years after you stop taking the medication. These potential long-term issues include pancreatitis, vision problems like the worsening of diabetic retinopathy, kidney injury, and changes in skin appearance, often referred to as "Ozempic face." Clinical trials have studied Ozempic for up to 41 months, providing data on these longer-term effects.

Is pancreatitis a confirmed side effect of Ozempic?

Pancreatitis, or inflammation of the pancreas, has been reported in some Ozempic users, but it is unclear if Ozempic directly causes it. In one 2-year study, 8 people taking injectable Ozempic experienced pancreatitis compared to 10 people taking a placebo. A more recent meta-analysis of about 35,000 patients found that semaglutide is not associated with a higher risk of pancreatitis compared to placebo. However, it is still a serious concern, and symptoms like severe upper stomach pain, nausea, and rapid heartbeat should be reported immediately.

Does Ozempic cause 'Ozempic face'?

Rapid weight loss, which Ozempic can facilitate, can lead to changes in body composition often described as "Ozempic face" or "Ozempic body." This refers to the loss of volume in the face and other areas, which can make a person appear older or gaunt due to the reduction of fat that supports the skin. While not a direct medical side effect of the drug's action, it is an indirect consequence of its efficacy in promoting significant weight reduction.

What are the signs of serious Ozempic side effects?

Signs of serious Ozempic side effects include severe upper stomach pain that may radiate to the back (pancreatitis), sudden changes in vision or vision loss (diabetic retinopathy worsening, NAION), symptoms of kidney injury such as changes in urination or swelling, and a lump or swelling in the neck, hoarseness, or trouble swallowing (possible thyroid tumors). Gastrointestinal issues like severe nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain that do not improve could also indicate serious complications like gastroparesis or intestinal blockage.