Ozempic Linked to Rare Eye Condition, EU to Investigate

Danish studies suggest a potential increased risk of vision-threatening NAION in users of the diabetes drug, prompting a review by European regulators.

• Two Danish studies indicate a two- to threefold higher risk of non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) in Ozempic users compared to other diabetes medications.
• NAION is a rare condition that causes sudden, often permanent vision loss due to reduced blood flow to the optic nerve, with risk factors including age and high blood pressure.
• The Danish Medicines Agency has reported 19 cases of NAION potentially linked to semaglutide, Ozempic's active ingredient, and has requested a formal review by the EU's Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee.
• While the absolute risk of NAION remains low, researchers emphasize the need for further studies to confirm causation and assess risks for users of semaglutide-based medications like Wegovy.
• Novo Nordisk, Ozempic's manufacturer, maintains that the drug's benefit-risk profile is unchanged and that patient safety is a top priority.

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