January 20 2025

Ozempic Linked to Increased Risk of Rare Eye Condition

Globally, many individuals seeking weight loss have turned to Ozempic, a medication originally prescribed for diabetes management that has gained attention as a so-called "miracle drug." However, two significant investigations conducted at the University of Southern Denmark have raised concerns about its potential side effects, including a rare but serious condition affecting the optic nerve, which can lead to permanent blindness.

The condition, known as non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (Naion), occurs due to a sudden loss of blood supply to the optic nerve. Researchers found that Ozempic more than doubles the risk of developing Naion, which is irreversible.

In the first investigation, researchers monitored 424,152 diabetic patients over five years and observed an increase in Naion cases from 9 to 23 per 100,000 among those using Ozempic. These findings were published in the International Journal of Retina and Vitreous. A second study involving 62,000 patients from Denmark and Norway reported a rise in Naion cases to 21 per 100,000 among Ozempic users.

The researchers emphasized that diabetic patients should not stop their prescribed use of Ozempic but advised that its potential link to Naion be closely monitored. Untreated diabetes can also lead to eye complications, though these are generally less severe than Naion.

Ozempic has been available in South Africa since 2017, with approval from the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) for diabetes management. While its primary purpose is diabetes control, it is also frequently prescribed for weight loss, both locally and internationally. The drug works by mimicking a natural hormone that signals fullness to the brain and slows digestion. Although developed for long-term use, weight loss remains one of its notable side effects for diabetic patients.