Two separate research teams from the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) have conducted studies analyzing the use of Ozempic, a popular medication for type 2 diabetes, and its potential link to a rare eye condition called non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). These findings build on concerns raised in a smaller American study earlier in 2024, suggesting a potential increased risk of this debilitating condition among Ozempic users.
The American study had already shown that Ozempic, which contains the active ingredient semaglutide, may more than double the risk of NAION, a condition that causes sudden loss of blood flow to the optic nerve, potentially leading to permanent vision loss. This rare disease has now been identified as a significant concern in both the American and Danish studies.
In the first of the Danish studies, researchers analyzed data from over 424,000 Danes with type 2 diabetes. They found that Ozempic use was associated with a doubling of the risk of developing NAION. While this study focused on a large population, a second study, still unpublished in a peer-reviewed journal, further investigated this link. It compared patients treated with Ozempic to those receiving other treatments for diabetes and also found that Ozempic increased the risk of NAION by a similar amount.
Despite these findings, researchers have stressed that these results should not immediately discourage diabetes patients from using Ozempic. They noted that untreated diabetes can lead to common eye complications, but these are typically less severe than the vision-threatening optic nerve damage linked to NAION.
Professor Anton Pottegård, the lead author of both studies, emphasized that while the risk of NAION was notably higher among Ozempic users, the overall risk remains low. “The core finding is that we are seeing more cases of NAION among semaglutide users, a very rare but serious disease of the optic nerve,” Pottegård said. “We don’t yet know why this occurs, but it seems that the drug increases the risk of this condition.”
Novo Nordisk Responds
Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Ozempic, responded to these findings by stating that NAION is a rare disease that is not classified as an adverse drug reaction for semaglutide in its marketed forms, including Ozempic. A company representative reassured the public, explaining that their internal safety assessments have concluded that the benefit-risk profile of semaglutide remains unchanged, despite the increased relative risk identified in the studies.
“While both studies showed a doubling of the relative risk, the absolute risk and the number of affected individuals are very low,” the representative stated. “The studies did not establish a causal relationship between semaglutide and NAION.”
Implications for Patients
Despite the low risk, patients using Ozempic who have experienced eye problems potentially linked to NAION are advised to consult their healthcare providers. If diagnosed with NAION, they should discontinue use of the drug, according to Pottegård. However, he emphasized that most patients should continue their treatment as the overall risk-benefit profile of Ozempic remains favorable for the majority.
Novo Nordisk echoed this sentiment, affirming that patient safety is their top priority and that any decision to begin treatment with Ozempic should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional who can evaluate the specific risks and benefits for each patient.
Expert Opinions on the Findings
Several medical experts, not involved in the studies, have weighed in on the implications of these findings. Dr. Benjamin Bert, an ophthalmologist at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center, called the research “concerning,” noting that NAION has no current treatment and stressing that each patient’s risk must be considered when prescribing Ozempic.
Dr. Mark A. Anton, medical director at Slimz Weightloss, echoed Bert’s concerns, emphasizing the importance of balancing the benefits of Ozempic with the potential risks. “Regular monitoring and communication with healthcare providers are essential,” Anton said.
Dr. Howard Krauss, a surgical neuro-ophthalmologist at the Pacific Neuroscience Institute, cautioned against overreaction. He pointed out that while type 2 diabetes is a risk factor for NAION, the incidence of the disease remains rare, and the studies do not prove a direct causal link between semaglutide and NAION.
Krauss also warned against sensationalizing rare side effects, as this could lead to unnecessary fear among patients and physicians. “We need to approach this with caution,” he said, suggesting that further research is needed to understand the potential relationship between Ozempic and NAION.
Future Research and Regulatory Oversight
As the link between Ozempic and NAION continues to be scrutinized, regulators are reviewing the findings as part of their ongoing safety evaluations. Pottegård emphasized that if regulators determine a causal link between semaglutide and NAION, further investigation would be required to assess the prevalence of the condition and to identify patients at higher risk.
For now, Ozempic remains an important treatment for many individuals with type 2 diabetes, but ongoing research and careful monitoring are essential to ensuring its safety for all users.
Related topic:
Legacy of Vision Care in the Shoals Community
Olivia Dean’s Journey with Vision Loss
Does Removal Of Cataracts Improve Vision?
