Associating Ozempic and Wegovy with potential vision loss risk
Ready to dive into the grimy details of Ozempic, the popular diabetes and weight loss drug? Buckle up, because this medication's side effects have been causing some serious stir.
A study published in JAMA Ophthalmology by a team of researchers from Harvard Medical School has raised some alarming concerns. Their investigation points to an association between semaglutide, the active ingredient in both Ozempic and Wegovy, and non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). This condition can lead to irreversible and uncommon damage to the optic nerve, causing permanent vision loss.
Joseph F. Rizzo III, MD, the study's principal investigator, shared that he was driven to conduct the study due to his personal experiences. He recalls meeting a patient suffering from NAION who was on Ozempic, followed by two more similar cases within a week.
The study consisted of 16,827 patients referred to and evaluated at Mass Eye and Ear, one of the country’s largest neuro-ophthalmology clinics, from December 1, 2017, through November 30, 2023.
- Among the 710 patients with type 2 diabetes, 194 had been prescribed semaglutide while 516 had been taking non-GLP-1 RA antidiabetic medications.
- Among the 979 overweight/obese patients, 361 had been taking semaglutide, while 618 had been taking non-GLP-1 RA weight-loss medications.
The hazard ratios for NAION were 4.28 and 7.64 respectively, indicating that patients taking semaglutide have a significantly increased risk of developing this condition. However, Dr. Rizzo concluded that patients should be informed of this potential risk, but more research is needed before widespread changes can be made.
Two Danish studies have now confirmed these findings, with larger study populations. The first Danish study, led by Dr. Jakob Grauslund, found that Ozempic more than doubles the risk of developing NAION in patients with type 2 diabetes. In the second study, researchers observed that Ozempic carries a 2.81 times greater relative risk of developing NAION.
Given these worrisome findings, it's essential that anyone taking semaglutide discuss the risks and benefits with their doctor. The American Academy of Ophthalmology and the North American Neuro-Ophthalmology Society advise that those experiencing sudden vision loss or worsening eyesight should stop taking semaglutide immediately and seek medical attention. Common symptoms of NAION include:
- Blurred vision
- Color distortion
- Loss of peripheral vision
- A dark or gray spot in the vision that doesn't move
- Loss of contrast or light sensitivity
As the medical community continues to mine the depths of semaglutide's impacts on our health, stay tuned for future updates!
- This increased risk of developing non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) associated with semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy, may have implications for eye health, a crucial aspect of overall health and wellness.
- As chronic diseases such as diabetes and obesity are often managed through therapies and treatments like Ozempic, understanding the potential neurological disorders like NAION that may arise becomes crucial for medical-conditions management.
- With fitness and exercise playing a significant role in the prevention and management of chronic diseases, it's important to consider the potential risks like NAION when making health care decisions – including medication choices – especially with regards to Medicare benefits.
- Given the recent studies linking Ozempic to an increased risk of NAION, people should be aware of the potential side effects, including vision loss symptoms like blurred vision, color distortion, and loss of peripheral vision. CBD, known for its potential neuroprotective effects, may be worth exploring as an alternative or supplement to these medications for managing diabetes and weight loss.
- While more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of semaglutide on health, staying informed about the associated conditions like NAION and being vigilant about maintaining overall eye health can help ensure a healthier and brighter future for those taking these medications.
