Ozempic & Wegovy Blindness: Is Blindness A Side Effect of Semaglutide?

In this article, we’ll look into whether blindness is a potential side effect of using Ozempic or Wegovy, medications that contain the active ingredient semaglutide and are commonly prescribed to support weight loss and manage type 2 diabetes. We’ll look at whether blindness is a known risk linked to semaglutide, explore whether it’s listed as a side effect and explain what you should do if you experience any vision changes while taking these medications. If you’re considering Ozempic or Wegovy, or if you’re already using them, this information will help you understand any potential eye-related side effects and when to seek medical advice.

Key Takeaways

Here are the 5 biggest takeaways from this article about Ozempic & Wegovy blindness:

• In the UK, semaglutide is available in two different medications. Wegovy is prescribed for weight loss in adults with a high BMI, while Ozempic is licensed only for managing type 2 diabetes.

• Some evidence suggests that semaglutide, the active ingredient in both Ozempic and Wegovy, may increase the risk of developing a rare eye condition, NAION, which can lead to sudden vision changes.

• A recent study found that individuals with type 2 diabetes taking semaglutide were more at risk of developing NAION compared to those on other diabetes medications. However, more research is needed to confirm if semaglutide directly causes this condition.

• Although blindness is not directly listed as a side effect on the Ozempic and Wegovy leaflets, there is a warning about diabetic retinopathy complications.

• If users experience vision changes like blurriness, dark spots, or peripheral vision loss while taking Ozempic or Wegovy, they should stop the medication immediately and seek urgent medical advice.

What is semaglutide prescribed for in the UK?

In the UK, semaglutide is prescribed under two brand names. These are Wegovy and Ozempic. Despite containing the same active ingredient these two medications are prescribed for different conditions.

Wegovy is specifically designed and licensed to help people to lose weight [1]. It is prescribed for adults with a BMI (body mass index) of 30 or above, or adults with a BMI of 27 or above that also have a weight-related health condition. The medication helps to suppress appetite, leading to decreased calorie intake. Wegovy works best when used alongside a healthy, balanced diet and regular exercise.

Ozempic also contains semaglutide but it is not licensed for weight loss. Instead, Ozempic is licensed for the treatment and management of type 2 diabetes [2]. Semaglutide helps to control blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. 

Can Ozempic or Wegovy cause blindness?

Current evidence suggests that medications containing semaglutide, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, may carry a potential risk of causing a rare eye condition called non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) [3]. NAION can lead to sudden vision issues, including blurry vision, dark spots, peripheral vision loss and changes in colour perception.

A recent study highlighted by the BBC indicates that individuals with type 2 diabetes who were prescribed semaglutide were over four times more likely to develop NAION compared to those on other diabetes treatments. However, experts taking part in the study state that further research is needed to confirm whether semaglutide directly causes this condition, especially since individuals with diabetes are already at a heightened risk of NAION [4].

If you experience any sudden vision changes while taking Ozempic or Wegovy, it’s essential to stop using the medication and seek immediate medical advice. If you are not experiencing any issues with your sight then it is safe to continue using the medication. If you have concerns about the safety of the medication it is recommended that you consult with your doctor for advice.

Is blindness listed as a side effect of Ozempic and Wegovy on the patient information leaflet?

Blindness itself is not directly listed as a specific side effect on the patient information leaflets for Ozempic and Wegovy. However, the leaflets do indicate an increased risk of diabetic retinopathy complications, including diabetes-related blindness, especially in patients who also use insulin. Diabetic retinopathy is caused by high blood sugar levels damaging the retina.

The information in the leaflets warns that patients with existing diabetic retinopathy should be monitored closely as rapid blood sugar changes linked to semaglutide can temporarily worsen diabetic retinopathy. 

What should I do if you experience vision changes when taking Ozempic or Wegovy?

If you experience any sudden vision changes while taking Ozempic or Wegovy, such as blurry vision, dark spots, peripheral vision loss, or changes in colour perception, stop taking the medication immediately and contact a healthcare professional for urgent advice. Vision changes could signal a rare but serious eye condition, so it’s important to seek medical help as soon as possible.

Sources

[1] A Beginners Guide to Wegovy for Weight Loss

[2] Ozempic Diabetes UK Guide: Key Information For Beginners

[3] Risk of Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy in Patients Prescribed Semaglutide | Diabetic Retinopathy | JAMA Ophthalmology

[4] Weight-loss drug linked to rare eye condition - BBC News