A growing number of people taking semaglutide (Ozempic) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) have developed severe eye conditions. Research published in JAMA Ophthalmology found that patients taking these medications are four to seven times more likely to develop nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), a condition that can cause blindness.
A new study detailed nine cases of patients who developed NAION and other eye conditions, including optic nerve inflammation disorder papillitis and paracentral acute middle maculopathy. All but one patient had a history of type 2 diabetes, highlighting the connection between rapid blood sugar drops and these eye problems.
Researchers suggest that the medications could cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which may lead to swelling in the optic nerve and worsen diabetic eye changes. Instead of warning against the use of these drugs, experts are calling on doctors to lobby for better post-prescription tracking of their potential adverse effects.
With over 13% of Americans using these medications, it’s essential to monitor any ill effects, particularly on the eyes or other parts of the body. The FDA is being urged to conduct a post-marketing survey to determine the true incidence of eye complications associated with GLP-1 inhibitors like Ozempic and Mounjaro.
Source: https://futurism.com/neoscope/evidence-ozempic-blindness