semaglutide associated with increased risk of optic neuropathyNew 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.

SHARE:
Free Consultation

Parker Waichman LLP

Untitled(Required)

Parker Waichman Reviews

4.8 from 549 Reviews

Related Testimonials

Our law firm is ready to represent you in your injury case. We’ve helped many New York residents as well as those needing help nationwide. Contact our team for a free case consultation today.

I had a great experience with them , everyone was very helpful and sweet.

Michelle Murphy

4 months ago

Zarahi was very professional and very Quick and very knowledgeable i realy appreciated her patience and perseverance she Deserves 100 stars 🌟 but since i can only send 5 i Guess i will just have to send that truly yours Rashine Downs

Kush Three

6 months ago

VERY NICE WORK PLACE THEY HAVE BEEN GOOD TO MY MOM

Whitney Brinson

5 years ago

They treated me with tender love and care

Terrell Weaver

2 months ago

Wonderful people. They made the whole process if dealing with a gov’t agency so easy. Special compliments to Gina Viti

Michael Ross

2 months ago

I’m a 9/11 first responder, and I can honestly say that Parker Waichman made me feel like they had my best interest in my VCF case. Ms Candalino & Ms Viti are top notch in my book. I was constantly informed on the status of my case. I would definitely recommend Parker Waichman LLP to family and friends.

D D

6 years ago

We Have Many Locations To Serve You
Serving Mass Tort Clients Nationally

We have the experience and the skilled litigators to win your case. Contact us and speak with a real attorney who can help you.

Long Island - Nassau

Parker Waichman LLP

6 Harbor Park Drive

Port Washington, NY 11050

(516) 466-6500

Long Island – Suffolk

Parker Waichman LLP

201 Old Country Road – Suite 145

Melville, NY 11747

(631) 390-0800

New York City

Parker Waichman LLP

59 Maiden Lane, 6th Floor

New York, NY 10038

(212) 267-6700

Queens

Parker Waichman LLP

118-35 Queens Boulevard, Suite 400

Forest Hills, NY 11375

(718) 469-6900

Brooklyn

Parker Waichman LLP

300 Cadman Plaza West

One Pierrepont Plaza, 12th Floor

Brooklyn, NY 11201

(718) 554-8055

Florida

Parker Waichman LLP

27299 Riverview Center Boulevard, Suite 108

Bonita Springs, FL 34134

(239) 390-1000

New Jersey

Parker Waichman LLP

80 Main Street, Suite 265

West Orange, NJ 07052

(973) 323-3603
Nationwide Service

We handle mass torts cases nationwide. Please contact our office to learn more.