Is Ozempic Making People Go Blind?

The world we live in is fast-paced and has made a lot of us impatient. We can get groceries delivered to our doorstep and can find any answer in the world in seconds. Things that used to take weeks, months, or even years can be achieved so much quicker thanks to advancements in technology in medicine.

One of those things is weight loss. While diet pills and lyposuction have been around forever, people have always been looking for a quick fix to being skinnier. Some people take the natural route of diet and exercise while others opt for a faster, potentially more risky approach.

Ozempic is one of these weight loss drugs and arguably the most popular. This weight loss drug was created to treate type 2 diabetes and obesity, and it has to be prescribed by a doctor.

Although many people have seen positive results from Ozempic, it's been making headlines recently due to its potential link to vision loss. So is it true? And are you willing to risk your eyesight to lose weight quickly?

What is Ozempic?

Ozempic is the brand name for semaglutide, a medication that belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists. It works by mimicking a hormone that regulates blood sugar and appetite. While originally approved for treating type 2 diabetes, Ozempic has gained popularity as a weight loss aid due to its ability to reduce hunger and making you feel fuller.

Does Ozempic Cause Blindness?

Recent studies have people concerned about a possible link between Ozempic and an increased risk of a rare but serious eye condition called non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). This condition affects the optic nerve and can lead to sudden, permanent vision loss.

A study published in July 2024 in JAMA Ophthalmology found that people taking semaglutide were more likely to develop NAION compared to those not taking the drug.

The study looked at about 1,700 patients with diabetes, overweight, or obesity over three years. Patients taking semaglutide for diabetes were four times more likely to develop NAION than those not taking the drug. For those taking semaglutide for weight loss, the risk was even higher – seven times more likely to develop NAION.

A second study in December 2024 found similar results, showing that diabetes patients taking Ozempic were more than twice as likely to be diagnosed with NAION.

What is NAION?

NAION is often described as a "stroke of the optic nerve." It occurs when blood flow to the optic nerve is reduced or blocked, leading to sudden vision loss. Unfortunately, there is currently no known treatment for this permanent condition.

NAION is the second most common optic nerve disorder in the U.S., affecting up to 10 out of every 100,000 people. It's important to note that people with type 2 diabetes and obesity are already at a higher risk for vision problems regardless of medication use.

What This Means for Ozempic Users

While these findings are concerning, the overall risk of developing NAION while taking Ozempic is still relatively low. The studies show an association between Ozempic use and NAION, but they don't prove that Ozempic directly causes this eye condition.

Experts stress that more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between Ozempic and vision loss. They caution against drawing firm conclusions from these observational studies alone.

Other Side Effects of Ozempic

While vision loss is the most serious concern, you should be aware of the other side effects of Ozempic you may experience:

1. Gastrointestinal issues: The most common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. These symptoms often improve over time as your body adjusts to the medication.

2. "Ozempic face": The rapid weight loss from Ozempic can lead to a loss of facial fat, causing more wrinkles and sagging skin.

3. Muscle loss: While you may be getting "skinnier" taking Ozempic, that doesn't necessarily mean you're burning fat. Without an exercise routine, especially involving strength training, you could lose muscle mass. In fact, weight loss drugs like Ozempic have caused some users to lose 10% or more of their muscle mass in 68- to 72-weeks. According to experts, this equates to around 20 years of muscle loss due aging.

4. Fatigue and headaches: Headaches aren't directly associated with Ozempic, however it can be a symptom of hypoglycemia, which is low blood sugar. Weight loss drugs can cause hypoglycemia when taken with insulin other diabetes medication.

5. Pancreatitis: In rare cases, more serious side effects like pancreatitis and issues with the kidneys, gallbladder, and thyroid have been reported.

Weighing the Risks and Benefits

Despite these potential side effects, Ozempic has proven to be an effective treatment for many people with type 2 diabetes and obesity. When used the right way, it can help control blood sugar levels and help users lose up to 15-20% of their body weight in 15 months.

The decision to use Ozempic should be made with a medical professional, taking into account your own health factors and potential risks. For many patients, the benefits of improved blood sugar control and weight loss may outweigh the small risk of developing vision problems.

What to Watch For

If you're taking Ozempic, it's important to be aware of potential vision changes. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Sudden vision loss

• Blurred vision that doesn't improve

• Changes in color perception

• Eye pain or pressure

Regular eye exams are crucial for anyone taking Ozempic, especially those with pre-existing risk factors for eye problems.

Novo Nordisk, the company that manufactures Ozempic, has stated that patient safety is their top priority. They have emphasized the need for thorough evaluation before establishing a definitive correlation between semaglutide and NAION.

The Bottom Line

While the link between Ozempic and vision loss is concerning, it's important to keep the risk in perspective. For many people with type 2 diabetes or obesity, the benefits of Ozempic may still outweigh the risks.

However, this new information emphasizes the importance of:

1. Discussing all potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider before starting Ozempic

2. Regular monitoring and follow-up while taking the medication

3. Being aware of potential side effects and seeking prompt medical attention if they occur

4. Considering alternative treatments if you have pre-existing risk factors for eye problems

As with any medication, the decision to use Ozempic should be made on an individual basis, taking into account a person's overall health, risk factors, and treatment goals.

Remember, while Ozempic can be an effective tool for managing diabetes and weight, it's not a magic solution. It works best when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise. If you're concerned about the potential side effects of Ozempic, talk to your healthcare provider about other options for managing your health.

As research continues, we'll likely learn more about the long-term effects of Ozempic and similar medications. For now, staying informed and working closely with your healthcare team is the best way to make decisions about your health and treatment options.