European health authorities are launching an investigation into whether Ozempic and other weight-loss drugs could be linked to vision loss, after several studies suggested the drugs may increase the risk of a condition that disrupts blood flow to the optic nerve.
Ozempic, a diabetes medication produced by Novo Nordisk, has been associated with a rise in cases of non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), a condition that can lead to blindness. In 2023, doctors at Harvard University began investigating the drug after three patients developed NAION within a single week. Their findings, published in July, indicated that Ozempic might double the risk of developing the condition.
Earlier this month, two additional studies from Denmark, where Novo Nordisk is headquartered, confirmed similar findings, prompting the Danish government to call for further investigation from the European Union. Authorities stated that the new research “reinforces the suspicion” and may provide critical information that warrants closer examination.
NAION occurs when blood flow to the optic nerve is disrupted, causing loss of vision. While the exact mechanism behind the potential link between semaglutide—Ozempic’s active ingredient—and NAION is still unclear, the drug primarily mimics hormones that regulate hunger and digestion.
Although Ozempic is approved for diabetes management, it is increasingly prescribed off-label for weight loss. Wegovy, another drug by Novo Nordisk with the same active ingredient but in different doses, is officially approved for weight loss. Both drugs work by affecting hormones involved in appetite control and digestion.
Since their approval, Ozempic and similar weight-loss drugs have been associated with a range of side effects. Black box warnings on Ozempic highlight the increased risk of thyroid tumors, as well as potential stomach paralysis, nausea, vomiting, and malnutrition. Other reported side effects include suicidal thoughts, sexual dysfunction, and hair loss.
In the U.S., approximately 6% of the population, or over 15 million people, are currently using some form of the drug.
While NAION can occur naturally due to factors like aging, high blood pressure, and smoking, it is also associated with disruptions in blood flow. Experts suggest that blood vessel damage or clots may block the optic nerve, leading to vision loss.
Two studies at the University of Southern Denmark found that people taking semaglutide had a heightened risk of developing NAION. The first study, which analyzed data from over 424,000 Danish diabetes patients, confirmed that Ozempic doubles the risk of the condition. A second study, which compared diabetics on Ozempic to those using other diabetes treatments, is currently undergoing peer review but also indicates an increased risk of NAION, though the absolute risk remains low.
Health regulators are expected to continue monitoring the situation as new research emerges.
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