Doctors warn of rare blindness in patients using Ozempic

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NEW YORK, July 4: Eye doctors in Boston have reported a recent increase in cases of a rare form of sudden blindness among patients using semaglutide, prompting concerns about its potential connection to serious eye conditions. Specifically, doctors are investigating whether medications like Ozempic and Wegovy, which contain semaglutide, could be contributing to instances of nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). This condition disrupts blood flow to the optic nerve, resulting in sudden vision loss in one eye, typically without pain.

A study published in JAMA Ophthalmology highlighted findings that individuals taking semaglutide may have a slightly higher risk of developing NAION compared to those with obesity or diabetes who do not use the drug. Out of over 16,000 eye patients reviewed in Massachusetts over six years, 37 cases of NAION were identified among semaglutide users, more than four times the number observed in similar patients not using the medication.

Dr. Joseph Rizzo, lead author of the study and director of neuro-ophthalmology at Mass Eye and Ear, emphasized the importance of discussing these risks with patients and their healthcare providers. He noted, “While these drugs have provided significant benefits, including in managing type 2 diabetes and obesity, patients should be informed about the potential risk of NAION, especially if they have existing optic nerve issues like glaucoma or prior significant vision loss.”

Responding to these findings, Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of semaglutide-based medications, reiterated their commitment to patient safety while questioning the study’s methodology due to the limited number of cases. They emphasized that NAION is not classified as an adverse drug reaction associated with semaglutide in marketed formulations.

Patients with diabetes and hypertension have historically faced higher risks of developing vision-related complications due to factors like chronically high blood sugar levels affecting eye health. Novo Nordisk continues to investigate semaglutide’s potential benefits in treating diabetic retinopathy through separate studies.

NAION often leads to permanent vision impairment, and currently, there is no known treatment available for the condition.

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