European Regulator Finds Possible Eye Disorder Risk in Semaglutide Drugs

54

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has identified a rare but serious eye disorder linked to the use of Ozempic and Wegovy. Both drugs, which contain the active ingredient semaglutide, are popular treatments for type 2 diabetes and weight loss. The condition, called non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), can cause sudden, painless vision loss in one eye.

EMA’s safety committee reviewed data starting in December and found that semaglutide increases the risk of developing NAION by about twofold. Although the condition affects only up to 1 in 10,000 patients, it is a significant safety concern. NAION occurs due to insufficient blood flow to the optic nerve and is the second leading cause of blindness from optic nerve damage after glaucoma.

Semaglutide belongs to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. These drugs help control blood sugar and promote a feeling of fullness, making them effective for diabetes management and weight loss. Earlier studies suggested a possible link between semaglutide and NAION, but this is the first time a regulator has confirmed the association.

A large study involving nearly 350,000 diabetic patients found that the risk of NAION more than doubled after long-term use of semaglutide compared to other diabetes medications. The EMA reviewed clinical trials, post-marketing data, and non-clinical studies to assess this risk thoroughly.

Due to these findings, the EMA has recommended updating the prescribing information for all semaglutide-containing medicines. The update will include NAION as a very rare but serious side effect.

Patients using Ozempic, Wegovy, or similar drugs should immediately report any sudden changes in vision to their healthcare provider. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent permanent vision loss.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not yet responded to requests for comment on the EMA’s findings.

While the risk remains low, this warning highlights the need for careful monitoring when using semaglutide-based treatments. Doctors must weigh the benefits of these medications against the rare possibility of severe eye complications.