A growing number of Americans taking weight loss medication like Ozempic are experiencing severe vision loss, leaving doctors sounding the alarm about a potentially startling side effect.
According to researchers, at least nine patients have developed nonarteritic ischemic anterior optic neuropathy (NAION), a condition that blocks blood flow to the optic nerve, leading to sudden and permanent vision loss in one or both eyes. The affected individuals were taking either semaglutide or tirzepatide, the active ingredients in Ozempic and Mounjaro, respectively.
The researchers found that seven of the nine patients had NAION, with the majority being women aged 57 years old or older. Most patients reported sudden vision loss after starting or stopping the medication, although some experienced improvements in their vision when they stopped taking the drug.
Experts warn that rapidly lowering blood sugar levels through weight loss medications could damage blood vessels in the eyes, leading to vision loss. While it’s unclear exactly what causes this side effect, researchers emphasize the need for further investigation into the potential link between these medications and blindness.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology has issued warnings about the risks associated with semaglutide, urging patients who experience vision loss while taking the medication to stop taking it and contact their doctor. The European Medicines Agency has also added a warning label to Ozempic regarding the risk of NAION.
As over 15 million Americans use some form of weight loss shot, experts stress the importance of monitoring these medications for potential side effects, including vision loss.
Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-14380795/ozempic-patients-blind-doctors-effect.html