Can Ozempic and Wegovy cause eye blindness?
Yes, there is a potential link between Ozempic and Wegovy (both containing semaglutide) and an increased risk of non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), a serious eye condition that can lead to blindness. However, more research is needed to determine whether semaglutide directly causes this vision problem, as individuals with diabetes, heart disease, and other medical conditions already have a higher risk of vision-related complications.
What Is the Evidence?
A July 2024 study published in JAMA Ophthalmology found an association between semaglutide use and NAION, though it did not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship.
Key Findings:
- Among194 patients with type 2 diabetes taking semaglutide, 17 experienced NAION.
- Among 361 patients taking semaglutide for obesity or overweight, 20 experienced NAION.
- Over 36 months, the cumulative incidence of NAION was 6.7% for semaglutide users vs. 0.8% for non-GLP-1 RA users.
Experts emphasize that further studies are needed, as factors such as diabetes duration and severity may influence the risk of this eye condition.
What Are Ozempic and Wegovy Used For?
Ozempic is FDA approved to treat type 2 diabetes in addition to diet and exercise, as well as lower the risk of major cardiovascular events in certain adults. It may also be prescribed to lower the risk of worsening kidney function in patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease.
Wegovy is FDA approved for weight loss and weight maintenance in certain people 12 years and older. It is also approved to lower the risk of major cardiovascular events in adults with heart disease and too much weight, and for certain adults with metabolic-associated steatohepatitis (MASH).
Both drugs contain semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA). It works to lower blood sugar by causing the pancreas to release more insulin. It also slows down your digestion, making you feel fuller longer.
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Should You Stop Taking Ozempic or Wegovy?
While these medications have potential risks, they also offer significant health benefits. If you have already been prescribed one of these medications, the American Academy of Ophthalmology and North American Neuro-Ophthalmology Society don’t recommend that you stop taking them. However, they caution that people should watch out for signs and symptoms of vision problems.
What Are the Signs of NAION?
NAION can occur unexpectedly. If you experience any of the following symptoms, stop taking Ozempic or Wegovy and contact your healthcare provider immediately:
- Blurry vision
- Distorted colors
- Light sensitivity
- Loss of peripheral vision
- Dark or gray spot in your vision
Pain is uncommon, and symptoms usually affect only one eye.
This is not all the information you need to know about Ozempic (semaglutide) and Wegovy (semaglutide) for safe and effective use and does not replace your doctor's instructions. Review the full product information, and discuss this information with your healthcare provider.
References
- Hathway, J. T., et. al. 2024. Risk of Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy in Patients Prescribed Semaglutide. In: JAMA Ophthalmology. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2024.2296
- Hazanchuk, V., et. al. 2024. Can Ozempic Affect Eye Health? Here’s What Ophthalmologists Want You to Know. Accessed 10/13/24 at https://www.aao.org/eye-health/news/can-ozempic-affect-eye-health-here-s-what-ophthalm
- Ozempic [package insert]. Updated Sept 2023. Novo Nordisk. Accessed 10/12/24 at https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=adec4fd2-6858-4c99-91d4-531f5f2a2d79
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). (2025, August 15). FDA approves treatment for serious liver disease known as 'MASH'. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/news-events-human-drugs/fda-approves-treatment-serious-liver-disease-known-mash
- Wegovy [package insert]. Updated March 2024. Novo Nordisk. Accessed 10/12/24 at https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=ee06186f-2aa3-4990-a760-757579d8f77b
- Wu, K. Y., et. al. 2022. NAION: Diagnosis and Management. Accessed 10/13/24 at https://www.aao.org/eyenet/article/naion-diagnosis-and-management
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