Semaglutide Associated with Increased Risk of Optic Neuropathy, Study Finds

New Research Links Popular Weight Loss and Diabetes Drug to Potential Vision Loss

Semaglutide, an active ingredient found in popular medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy, has been associated with a significantly higher risk of an optic nerve condition that could lead to blindness. This alarming finding was reported in JAMA Ophthalmology by researchers from the Massachusetts Eye and Ear in Boston, affiliated with Harvard. The study reveals that individuals prescribed semaglutide for type 2 diabetes had a fourfold increased risk of developing non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), while those taking the drug for obesity and overweight issues had more than a sevenfold risk increase.

NAION, a condition resulting from reduced blood flow to the optic nerve, is the most common cause of sudden optic neuropathy among individuals over 50 in the United States. Although the researchers caution that their observational study cannot definitively establish a causal relationship between semaglutide and NAION, the elevated risk noted in their findings is cause for concern.

Dr. Jimena Tatiana Hathaway and her colleagues initiated their investigation following anecdotal clinical experiences. The FDA-approved labels for Ozempic and Wegovy mention complications related to diabetic retinopathy but do not reference NAION. This study is reportedly the first to suggest a potential link between semaglutide and this serious optic nerve condition.

NAION involves damage to the optic nerve due to insufficient blood flow, leading to vision loss or blindness. Unlike arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, NAION does not involve inflamed blood vessels. Approximately 6,000 new cases of NAION are reported in the U.S. each year, highlighting the importance of identifying potential risk factors for this condition.

The study examined records from 17,298 patients treated at Massachusetts Eye and Ear’s neuro-ophthalmology clinic over six years. Researchers focused on 710 patients with type 2 diabetes and 979 individuals who were overweight or obese. Among the diabetic patients, those who had been prescribed semaglutide showed a 4.28 times higher risk of developing NAION compared to those not on the drug. Similarly, the risk was 7.64 times higher among overweight and obese patients on semaglutide compared to their non-semaglutide counterparts.

Despite the significant findings, the study’s limitations must be acknowledged. Patients at specialized neuro-ophthalmology clinics may not represent the general population, and retrospective studies can have inherent biases. Additionally, the relatively small proportion of Black patients in the study limits the generalizability of the findings.

The exact mechanism linking semaglutide to NAION remains unclear. The optic nerve has glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptors, and semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, might have unintended effects on these receptors or nearby blood vessels. An accompanying editorial by Dr. Susan P. Mollan suggested that the rapid normalization of the cardiometabolic system due to semaglutide might contribute to the NAION side effect rather than the drug itself.

Harm and Injury from Semaglutide

Patients affected by semaglutide-related NAION face severe and potentially irreversible harm. Vision loss impacts quality of life, independence, and the ability to perform daily activities. The sudden onset of optic neuropathy can lead to permanent blindness, significantly affecting an individual’s personal and professional life.

Individuals who have suffered vision loss or blindness due to semaglutide may pursue legal action to seek compensation for their injuries. The lawsuit process involves several steps, beginning with an initial consultation with a product liability attorney. The attorney will evaluate the case’s merits and gather evidence, such as medical records and expert testimony. The complaint is then filed, and the discovery phase begins, where both parties exchange information and gather further evidence.

Legal representation is crucial in navigating the complexities of product liability lawsuits. An experienced attorney ensures that the victim’s rights are protected and maximizes the chances of a favorable outcome. They handle all aspects of the case, from filing paperwork to negotiating settlements and representing the client in court if necessary.

Potential Damages in a Product Liability Lawsuit

Victims of semaglutide-related NAION can seek various types of damages, including compensatory, consequential, and punitive damages. Compensatory damages cover direct financial losses such as medical expenses and lost wages. Consequential damages account for indirect losses like pain and suffering and reduced quality of life. Punitive damages may be awarded in cases of gross negligence to punish the defendant and deter similar conduct in the future.